If you loved the unique blend of superhero mythology and psychological thriller in 'Unbreakable' (2000), you're in for a treat. This article explores 10 movies and TV shows that capture the same eerie atmosphere, slow-burn tension, and thought-provoking themes of identity and destiny. Whether you're a fan of M. Night Shyamalan's signature style or simply crave more stories about ordinary people discovering extraordinary abilities, this list has something for you.

The Sixth Sense (1999)
Description: The Sixth Sense shares Unbreakable's slow-burning suspense and a twist ending, both hallmarks of M. Night Shyamalan's storytelling. Both films explore themes of perception, reality, and the supernatural, with a focus on emotional depth and character-driven narratives.
Fact: The film's famous line, 'I see dead people,' became a cultural phenomenon. The Sixth Sense was nominated for six Academy Awards, including Best Picture. It was Shyamalan's breakthrough film, establishing him as a master of suspense and twist endings.


The Gift (2000)
Description: The Gift, like Unbreakable, blends supernatural elements with a mystery thriller, focusing on a protagonist with unique abilities. Both films explore themes of intuition, the unseen, and the impact of the past on the present.
Fact: The film stars Cate Blanchett as a psychic who becomes involved in a murder investigation. The Gift was directed by Sam Raimi, known for his work on the Evil Dead series. The film's Southern Gothic setting adds to its eerie atmosphere.


The Others (2001)
Description: The Others shares Unbreakable's atmospheric tension and twist ending, with a focus on psychological horror and the supernatural. Both films explore themes of identity, perception, and the thin line between the living and the dead.
Fact: The film stars Nicole Kidman in a critically acclaimed performance. The Others was a major box office success, grossing over $210 million worldwide. The film's twist ending is considered one of the best in the horror genre.


Signs (2002)
Description: Signs, like Unbreakable, is a M. Night Shyamalan film that blends suspense, supernatural elements, and deep emotional undertones. Both films explore themes of faith, destiny, and the extraordinary within the ordinary, with a strong emphasis on family dynamics.
Fact: Mel Gibson and Joaquin Phoenix star as brothers grappling with loss and faith. The film's tension is built through minimalistic storytelling and eerie sound design. Signs was a box office hit, grossing over $408 million worldwide.


The Village (2004)
Description: The Village shares Unbreakable's atmospheric tension and themes of perception versus reality. Both films use a slow build-up to reveal deeper truths about their characters and worlds, with a focus on psychological and emotional depth.
Fact: The film features a standout performance by Bryce Dallas Howard in her debut leading role. The Village's twist ending divided audiences and critics. The score, composed by James Newton Howard, was highly praised and nominated for an Academy Award.


The Happening (2008)
Description: The Happening, like Unbreakable, explores the idea of an unseen force affecting humanity, though in a more apocalyptic context. Both films delve into themes of survival, human nature, and the unknown, with Shyamalan's signature suspenseful storytelling.
Fact: The film was marketed as Shyamalan's first R-rated movie, though it was later revealed to be a misdirection. The Happening received largely negative reviews but has gained a cult following over the years. The film's premise was inspired by real-life environmental concerns.


Old (2021)
Description: Old shares Unbreakable's exploration of human vulnerability and the passage of time, albeit in a more fantastical setting. Both films use their premises to delve into deeper existential questions, with Shyamalan's trademark suspense and unexpected twists.
Fact: The film is based on the graphic novel 'Sandcastle' by Pierre Oscar Levy and Frederik Peeters. Old was shot during the COVID-19 pandemic, with strict safety protocols in place. The film's unique premise and execution sparked much discussion among audiences.


Knock at the Cabin (2023)
Description: Knock at the Cabin, like Unbreakable, is a psychological thriller that explores themes of faith, sacrifice, and the unknown. Both films feature ordinary people confronted with extraordinary circumstances, with a focus on tension and moral dilemmas.
Fact: The film is based on Paul Tremblay's novel 'The Cabin at the End of the World.' It stars Dave Bautista in a dramatic role, showcasing his range as an actor. Knock at the Cabin marks Shyamalan's return to more intimate, character-driven storytelling.


Split (2016)
Description: Split is similar to Unbreakable as both films are part of M. Night Shyamalan's Eastrail 177 Trilogy, exploring themes of superhuman abilities and psychological depth. Like Unbreakable, Split delves into the idea of ordinary people discovering extraordinary capabilities, with a strong focus on character development and suspense.
Fact: James McAvoy's performance as Kevin Wendell Crumb, a man with 24 distinct personalities, was highly praised. The film's twist ending connects it directly to Unbreakable, revealing the shared universe. Split was made on a modest budget of $9 million but grossed over $278 million worldwide.


Glass (2019)
Description: Glass serves as the conclusion to the Eastrail 177 Trilogy, directly tying together the narratives of Unbreakable and Split. It continues the exploration of superhuman abilities, the thin line between heroism and villainy, and the psychological and societal implications of these themes, much like Unbreakable.
Fact: Glass brings back Bruce Willis as David Dunn and Samuel L. Jackson as Elijah Price/Mr. Glass from Unbreakable. The film's title refers to Mr. Glass's fragile bones and his sharp intellect. Despite mixed reviews, Glass was a box office success, earning over $247 million worldwide.
