Night Shyamalan is back. The filmmaker had been suspiciously absent for a stretch before returning with “Old” in 2021. And now “Knock at the Cabin” which dropped February 3, 2023.
I’m a big Shyamalan fan and supporter. His works tend to be hit or miss, and that’s okay. Go big or go home is a good motto to follow. And he seems like a genuinely nice guy.
We see Shyamalan at his best with the science of filmmaking. “Knock at the Cabin” is high tension, artistically framed, and fast; clocking in a perfect 100 minutes. And the writing is excellent. Shyamalan based the screenplay on Paul G. Tremblay’s novel “The Cabin at the End of the World.” The story channels Alfred Hitchcock and Rod Serling, and presents a moral dilemma that the viewer can easily play along with. The tension is gripping. And the story offers just enough doubt that the characters on all sides can never be truly certain of what’s real and what isn’t.
It’s more thriller than horror, though the scenario presented is realistic and terrifying. A couple vacationing at a remote cabin with their eight-year-old daughter. Four bizarre strangers besiege the family. It’s a home invasion which in itself is horrific, but there’s a catch. A Shyamalan type catch, and while the trailer spoils it, I won’t at this point in the review.
The acting is excellent from all parties at play.
Actors Jonathan Groff and Ben Aldridge play the parents. Through flashbacks, we see the connection the two have as well as their struggles as a same sex couple, compounded when they adopt Wen (Kristen Cui). The family are well likeable and all good actors.
The invaders are played by Abby Quinn, Rupert Grint, Nikki Amuka-Bird, and Dave Bautista who steals the show as Leonard. Bautista was a former wrestler, and with shaven skull and tatted arms is an imposing figure. What’s great is that the character is completely rationale – given the situation. He’s a gentle giant who quickly connects with the Wen. His speech is hypnotic and his emotions in check. Hopefully Bautista will be cast in more roles like this.
Shyamalan shows how filmmaking is done.
The cinematography and location are perfectly remote. The droning sounds of summer bugs is pleasant, and makes us feel isolated in the woods. There’s a message or two that one can sniff out if so inclined. And an obvious but fun Shyamalan cameo.
Spoilers!
It’s tough to have an acceptable ending to a really thrilling film. The final episode of any season of ‘24’ is always a letdown. You finished a roller coaster and now the cart is slowing to a stop. It has to happen. It doesn’t mean the rest wasn’t enjoyable.
“Knock at the Cabin” presents a situation in which the hostage family must decide if the demands of the invaders are legit. There are spiritual and cult messages. There is no twist ending. In fact, the ending validates the entire movie, making it a bit of a letdown.
I loved the images of a tsunami swallowing coastal Oregon and jet planes literally falling from the sky. These things are the fuel for nightmares. But there’s no catch or deeper explanations offered.
“Knock at the Cabin” is a good film. It’s not a rewatch, but can be enjoyed for its story, acting, and style. I’m glad Shyamalan is back.
“Knock at the Cabin” is currently only available to watch in theaters.
