Cast
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Mark Wahlberg
as Elliot Moore
Zooey Deschanel
as Alma Moore
John Leguizamo
as Julian
Ashlyn Sanchez
as Jess
Betty Buckley
as Mrs. Jones
Spencer Breslin
as Josh
Robert Bailey Jr.
as Jared
Frank Collison
as Nursery Owner
Jeremy Strong
as Private Auster
Alan Ruck
as Principal
Victoria Clark
as Nursery Owner's Wife
M. Night Shyamalan
as Joey (voice)
Alison Folland
as Woman Reading on Bench with Hair Pin
Kristen Connolly
as Woman Reading on Bench
Cornell Womack
as Construction Foreman
Crew
Director
- M. Night Shyamalan
Producer
- M. Night Shyamalan
- Barry Mendel
- Sam Mercer
- Deven Khote
- Jose L. Rodriguez
- John Rusk
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a science fiction narrative, The Happening explores potential technological and societal futures, raising important questions about humanity's place in the universe and our evolutionary trajectory. The film stands apart from other sci-fi works by presenting a vision that is both thought-provoking and visually distinctive.
Director M. Night Shyamalan brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to pacing and visual storytelling creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 2008, the film exists within a cultural context that continues to evolve with our understanding of its themes. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of The Happening took approximately 30 months from pre-production to final cut.
- With a budget of $60.0 million, the film proved to be a financial success, earning back its investment and more.
- The final cut of the film runs for 90 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 149 minutes long.
- Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
- The film contains approximately 2080 individual shots.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 7 months to complete.
Historical Context
- In 2008, when this film is released:
- Environmental concerns were becoming more mainstream.
- Digital technology was disrupting traditional media and entertainment.
- Digital filmmaking technologies were transforming production processes and creating new opportunities.
How This Film Stands Out
While The Happening shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Twelve Monkeys, which focuses more on action than character development, The Happening subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Armageddon and Countdown explore similar territory, The Happening stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its bold artistic choices and willingness to challenge viewer expectations, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: June 11, 2008
- Runtime: 1h 30m
- Budget: $60,000,000
- Revenue: $163,403,799
Where to Watch
