The trailer for “Split” is a masterclass in how to entice viewers. Released in 2016, “Split” quickly became one of my favorite films. It brilliantly combines a serial killer theme with everyday crime fighting, resulting in compelling characters and a little something for everyone. While its predecessor “Unbreakable” might not have been as strong, both movies are excellent entries into the comic book realm of superhero fandom.
Table of Contents
Plot and Storyline
“Split” is a psychological horror film starring James McAvoy as Kevin Crumb, alongside Anya Taylor-Joy and Betty Buckley. The story begins with the kidnapping of three girls by a man diagnosed with 23 personalities. Dennis, one of these personalities, takes them to a hidden location. The girls soon learn about a 24th entity, referred to as The Beast. The tension builds as they try to escape before The Beast emerges.
Main Characters
Kevin Crumb: The core personality, often pushed aside by the others.
Dennis: The first personality we meet, serious and obsessive about cleanliness.
Barry: A fashion enthusiast who tries to protect the girls.
Patricia: The likely commander of The Beast, authoritative and manipulative.
Hedwig: A nine-year-old personality who forms a bond with Casey.
Orwell: A historian who provides context through historical references.
Jade: A teenage vlogger with diabetes, feeling victimized by her condition.
- Written and directed by M. Night Shyamalan,
- Produced & distributed by Universal Pictures and Blumhouse Productions,
- Released in 2016
Split Review
In the first part of this review, we explored the plot and main characters of “Split.” Now, let’s dive deeper into the intricacies of Kevin Crumb’s personalities and the overarching themes of the movie.
The Horde and The Beast
The Horde is the collective name for the personalities working for The Beast. Some personalities want The Beast to dominate, believing it will make them more powerful. This internal conflict creates a war between good and evil within Kevin.
The Beast: The 24th entity, a totalitarian protector created by Kevin. The Beast’s physical transformation includes bulging muscles and elongated teeth, making him a formidable force.
Which Alternates for Kevin Crumb Do We Meet in Split?
For a full description of all the personalities inside Kevin Crumb, who is the primary, see below. Mother of Movies lists The Horde, Dennis, Barry, Patricia, Hedwig,Orwell, Jade and The Beast.
In the first part of this review, we explored the plot and main characters of “Split.” Now, let’s dive deeper into the intricacies of Kevin Crumb’s personalities and the overarching themes of the movie.
Character Analysis
Kevin Wendell Crumb: The core personality, struggling to maintain control.
Dennis: Created in response to Kevin’s abusive childhood, Dennis is manipulative and has a severe temper.
Barry: Often overshadowed, Barry tries to protect the girls and maintain some semblance of normalcy.
Patricia: The ringleader, she commands respect and has a higher purpose for the captives.
Hedwig: Despite his age, Hedwig holds a prime position and provides crucial information to the girls.
Orwell: Not part of The Horde, Orwell offers historical context and expresses concerns about their plan.
Jade: Frustrated by her health condition, Jade feels victimized and lashes out.
Additional Insights
The characters cower to an additional personality referred to as ‘The Beast.’ Fans of “Unbreakable” might have picked up on the clues, including the mention of the train, a central focus in the first film. I, however, watched “Split” as a standalone movie and was thrilled to discover its deeper connections.
The Magician Inside Kevin Wendell Crumb
M. Night Shyamalan masterfully keeps viewers invested in Kevin’s mind and his associated ‘disorder.’ The relationships between Casey and Kevin’s personalities are fascinating and complex.
Final Thoughts
“Split” remains my favorite film, and I wish I could watch it more often. The extensive flashbacks and explanations in “Glass” make it easy to watch these films out of order. For another film exploring dissociative identity disorder, I recommend watching Glass | 6 Souls | Hide and Seek next.
Split Trailer
I give “Split” 4.75 out of 5 – give that man an Emmy!
