Split

The ending of Split reveals that the film actually takes place in the same universe as M. Night Shyamalan’s Unbreakable. The final scenes subtly confirm this connection through a quick shot of a TV report about Kevin’s kidnapping and murders, which is seen in a diner where Bruce Willis, reprising his role as David Dunn, walks out, confirming the link. This twist recontextualizes the story, transforming Split from just a psychological thriller into a origin story for a new supervillain—Kevin, who embodies the supernatural killing machine known as the Beast. As Kevin’s personality gains full control, he demonstrates nearly indestructible strength and nearly invincible resilience, essentially becoming a superhuman threat.

Throughout the film, Kevin’s multiple identities and their physical manifestations serve as a metaphor for trauma and mental health struggles, with his personality called the Beast representing a terrifying evolution of his repressed pain. The film’s climax shows the Beast killing two of the kidnapped girls but sparing Casey, recognizing a shared understanding of suffering—the Beast sees her scars and past abuse, which resonates with his own hardship. Kevin’s capacity for empathy, especially towards Casey, hints at a deeper, more nuanced character than just a monster. This act of mercy suggests that even a broken mind can find moments of genuine humanity.

The final twist not only elevates Kevin’s character to that of a supervillain but also sets the stage for the trilogy’s conclusion, Glass. The film teases a shared universe where characters like David Dunn, Kevin, and the manipulative Elijah Price (Mr. Glass) all exist, setting up their inevitable showdown. Ultimately, Kevin’s plea to be killed at the film’s end underscores his awareness of his monstrous alter ego and his desire to end his suffering. The culmination of the story transforms Split from a horror-thriller into a vital chapter in a larger story about heroism, trauma, and the potential for human resilience in the face of overwhelming darkness.

Last Updated: June 25, 2025 at 08:58