in what order should i watch unbreakable split and glass

Sembilsg

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15-04-2025

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The M. Night Shyamalan trilogy consisting of Unbreakable, Split, and Glass has captivated audiences with its unique blend of superhero storytelling and psychological thriller elements. But the non-chronological release order can leave viewers wondering: What's the best way to watch these films? The simple answer is chronological order. This approach provides the most satisfying narrative experience and allows you to fully appreciate the interconnected storylines and character arcs.

The Optimal Viewing Order: Unbreakable, Split, Then Glass

The ideal order to watch these films is:

1. Unbreakable (2000): This film introduces David Dunn, a security guard who discovers he possesses superhuman abilities after a devastating train crash. It establishes the core themes of the trilogy and sets the stage for the events in the subsequent films. Watching Unbreakable first gives you the foundational understanding of the universe and its characters.

2. Split (2016): This movie focuses on Kevin Wendell Crumb, a man with dissociative identity disorder (DID) who harbors a terrifying alter known as "The Beast." Split unfolds as a separate story initially but reveals crucial connections to Unbreakable through a surprising mid-credits scene. Viewing it second maintains the suspense while revealing how these seemingly separate narratives intersect.

3. Glass (2019): Glass brings David Dunn and Kevin Crumb together, along with Elijah Price (Mr. Glass) from Unbreakable. It directly addresses events from the previous two films, creating a cohesive conclusion to the shared narrative. Watching Glass last allows you to appreciate the full weight of the shared universe, character arcs, and Shyamalan’s overarching vision.

Why Chronological Order is Best?

Chronological order offers several significant advantages:

• Narrative Clarity: The films build upon each other chronologically. Understanding the events of Unbreakable enhances your appreciation for Split and its connections to the broader narrative. The reveals in Glass are far more impactful when viewed after the other two.

• Character Development: Witnessing the evolution of David Dunn and Mr. Glass across the entire trilogy provides a deeper understanding of their motivations and internal conflicts. Similarly, the progression of Kevin's DID in Split leads to a more impactful climax in Glass.

• Thematic Cohesion: The themes of heroism, villainy, and the nature of good versus evil are explored progressively across the three films. Chronological viewing underscores the nuanced examination of these themes and their connection to the characters.

Addressing Common Questions

Q: Can I watch them out of order?

A: Technically, yes. However, you will likely miss crucial plot points, thematic connections, and the full impact of the narrative's twists and turns. Split particularly relies on the foundation established in Unbreakable.

Q: What if I've already seen one of the movies?

A: If you've seen one film, start with the one you haven't seen, and then continue in chronological order. This ensures you experience the story's complete arc.

In conclusion: While each film stands alone to a degree, experiencing the M. Night Shyamalan trilogy in chronological order – Unbreakable, Split, and Glass – is highly recommended. This method provides a far more rewarding and fulfilling cinematic experience. You’ll understand the connections, appreciate the character arcs, and fully embrace Shyamalan’s unique vision.