by Matt Barr

That is why I am on this porch, Ivy Walker

At BTDF there was this thread about underrated movies. It didn't come to me at first but by page two it did: The Village.

Everyone hated it because they guessed the plot twist. Yes, yes, you're very smart. This was the best movie love story that's come out in years. And beyond it being annoying how William Hurt keeps getting shown from behind, it's a typically gorgeous Shyamalan film.

As part of our months-long project to move our bedroom down into the basement, I hooked up an old DVD player down there today and watched The Village again. Bryce Dallas Howard, who's also going to be in Lady In the Water (but isn't in this trailer), is outstanding as Ivy, blind and hair the "bad color." Joaquin Phoenix is a good bit north of his Gladiator performance (still haven't seen Walk the Line) as quiet, determined Lucius.

Spoiler! Those We Don't Speak Of aren't real and it's set in the present day. But Shyamalan isn't pushing our buttons: it's important that Ivy not know those things, and we experience the story through her. So, great, you figured it out, but Ivy didn't, and that's the point. It's not all about you!

Phoenix delivers two of the three signature moments of the film. Ivy has explained to him that she knows he cares about her because he never touches her anymore (she's blind, he used to help her around all the time). Explaining to his mother, Sigourney Weaver, how he figures William Hurt has feelings for her, he mumbles, "he never touches you." Great writing, great direction, great execution. Later, he confesses his love for Ivy on her porch, in his way. If they gave Oscars for scenes, Phoenix would win one for the porch scene.

Ivy: When we are married, will you dance with me? I find dancing very agreeable.

Why can you not say what is in your head?

Lucius: Why can you not stop saying what is in yours? Why must you lead, when I want to lead? If I want to dance I will ask you to dance. If I want to speak I will open my mouth and speak.

Everyone is forever plaguing me to speak further. Why? What good is it to tell you you are in my every thought from the time I wake? What good can come from my saying that I sometimes cannot think clearly or do my work properly? What gain can rise of my telling you the only time I feel fear as others do is when I think of you in harm?

That is why I am on this porch, Ivy Walker. I fear for your safety before all others. And yes, I will dance with you on our wedding night.

The third signature moment is Ivy's simple "I'm back, Lucius" to end the film. In between she has braved fears she's had plied into her from infancy cut with what she comes to believe is false hope that she doesn't have to fear as much as she thought. (You saw it, you know what I mean.) Just an outstanding story of courage and hope fueled by love. Very underrated.

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