There’s a lot of Internet hype and misconception around the M. Night Shyamalan’s The Village.

As always these reviews are spoiler free, although I’m sorely tempted in this case to provide a long list of what this movie is not to debunk the hyperbole.

Here’s what The Village does:

1) Explores of various kinds of love, particularly those denied.

2) Dares – it’s his riskiest film yet.

3) Sends a message – this film is a metaphor about the perils of deceit even where the intent seems just. Some may interpret this message as an anti war film – but I disagree.

4) Introduces an excellent talent, Bryce Howard. Yep, Opie’s daughter.

5) Defies expectations.

Bottom line : M. Night at his worst, is better than 90 percent of the movies out there. This is a different sort of film from him. Matinee or DVD it.