The Others (2001)

Fierce Catholic Grace Stewart (Nicole Kidman) lives in an old house with curtains pulled shut because her two children, Anne and Nicholas have a sensitivity to light. After Grace hires on new help around the painfully quiet home, strange things begin to occur. When her children begin to talk of intruders, Grace decides to fight in order to protect her children.

Writer-director Alejandro Amenabar brings an effectual thriller to the screen in The Others. He replies solely on interpretation as he brilliantly manipulates his viewers. Much like The Sixth Sense, The Others lives for the epiphany that will change how you see the film.

The performances here are solid. Nicole Kidman is perfectly cast. She fits well into the period and plays cold/reserved well. The two children are equally whiny and naughty.

The Others works because it is perfectly creepy. With rolling fog that surrounds the estate, three morose servants (with Fionnula Flanagan (Lost, Four Brothers) leading the way), and enough shadowy corners and creaky door jams... the film is equal parts claustrophobia and Hitchcockian fright.

If the film has one detractor, its the length. Amenabar drags the film on in an attempt to build more thrills and an unfulfilling subplot with Christopher Eccleston (coming this summer as Destro!!).

The Others is a clever cerebral piece that delivers good scares and an even better a-HA! moment. The downside... you can only watch this one once.