Split cast and plot entertains viewers

Director+M.+Night+Shyamalan.

Michael S. Wirtz/Philadelphia Inquirer/MCT

Director M. Night Shyamalan.

Megan Agresta, Staff Writer

If you’re looking for a movie that will leave you sitting on the edge of your seat with suspense, but will also have you laughing out loud, then Split is the movie for you.

James McAvoy plays a middle aged man named Kevin who has multiple personality disorder. This causes him to shift personalities that take over his mind and body. There are 24 of them that are very distinct with various ages, genders, and strengths.

McAvoy portrays this role extremely well as he puts himself into the shoes of so many different characters. Each and every personality has a different tone and voice, which he executes precisely.

In the beginning of the movie, McAvoy kidnaps three teenage girls: best friends Casey and Marcia, played by Anya Taylor-Joy and Jessica Sula, and their acquaintance Claire, played by Haley Lu Richardson.

Richardson is the most developed character because the movie contains flashbacks of her life as a little girl, which explains how she has the upper-hand throughout the movie. As a whole, the relationship between the three girls changes dramatically as they all become fearful for their lives and try to escape. All three girls played their roles well–so well that throughout the movie I was fearful for them.

At first, the setting of the movie is unclear. The audience is aware that the girls are in McAvoy’s house, although something seems off about the location of his home which is not truly revealed until the very end of the movie. Even though it was unclear, the setting was very thought out and advances the plot further.

The plot of the movie as a whole really hit the nail on the head. Currently, psychology is becoming more widely studied and explored. Having a movie that centers around that social science really appeals to people.

Also, the movie was comical at times with McAvoy’s younger personality, Hedwig. There were many one liners and scenes that played on his naiveness, capturing and engaging the audience.

At times, the plot could get a little confusing. If you tuned out for a second, you were sure to miss something important and might become lost in the storyline. Eventually, you are able to catch back up though.

The ending of the movie was very unpredictable, which is always a plus. Except, many people–myself included–may not understand it since it is linked to another movie released in 2000.

Despite the slightly complicated plot and possibly unknown ending, the movie was very enjoyable. Overall, I would recommend that everyone sees this movie because there is an enjoyable aspect for anybody whether psychology intrigues them or not.

I would rate this movie 4.5/5 stars for stellar acting and a well thought-out setting and plot.