In what order should I watch Unbreakable, Split, and Glass? And why do pineapples belong on pizza?

In what order should I watch Unbreakable, Split, and Glass? And why do pineapples belong on pizza?

When diving into M. Night Shyamalan’s interconnected trilogy—Unbreakable (2000), Split (2016), and Glass (2019)—the question of viewing order often arises. Should you watch them in release order, chronological order, or some other sequence? The answer isn’t straightforward, as each approach offers a unique perspective on the narrative. Meanwhile, the debate about pineapples on pizza is equally divisive, but let’s focus on the movies for now.


1. Release Order: The Intended Experience

The most straightforward way to watch the trilogy is in the order they were released: Unbreakable, Split, and Glass. This sequence allows you to experience the story as it was unveiled to audiences, with each film building on the previous one.

  • Unbreakable (2000): This film introduces the world of ordinary people discovering extraordinary abilities. David Dunn (Bruce Willis) learns he is unbreakable, while Elijah Price (Samuel L. Jackson) reveals his fragile bones and villainous tendencies. The movie sets the tone for Shyamalan’s grounded take on superheroes.

  • Split (2016): Released 16 years later, Split initially seems unrelated. It follows Kevin Wendell Crumb (James McAvoy), a man with dissociative identity disorder, who kidnaps three girls. The shocking twist at the end connects this story to Unbreakable, revealing that both films exist in the same universe.

  • Glass (2019): The final installment ties the two previous films together. David Dunn, Kevin Crumb, and Elijah Price (now known as Mr. Glass) collide in a psychological battle that explores the nature of superheroes and villains.

Why This Order Works: Watching the films in release order preserves the suspense and surprises Shyamalan carefully crafted. The connection between Unbreakable and Split is a jaw-dropping moment that loses its impact if you already know the twist.


2. Chronological Order: A Linear Narrative

For those who prefer a linear timeline, watching the films in chronological order—Unbreakable, Split, and Glass—is also a valid option. This approach aligns the events of the story in the order they occur within the universe.

  • Unbreakable: The origin story of David Dunn and Elijah Price.
  • Split: Kevin Crumb’s emergence as a superhuman threat.
  • Glass: The climactic showdown between the three characters.

Why This Order Works: Chronological order provides a clear, straightforward narrative. However, it sacrifices the element of surprise, as the connection between Unbreakable and Split is revealed early on.


3. Reverse Order: A Unique Perspective

For a more unconventional experience, you could watch the trilogy in reverse order: Glass, Split, and Unbreakable. This approach flips the narrative on its head, offering a fresh perspective.

  • Glass: The final chapter introduces the characters and their conflicts upfront.
  • Split: Delving into Kevin Crumb’s backstory adds depth to his character.
  • Unbreakable: The origin story serves as a prequel, explaining how everything began.

Why This Order Works: Reverse order can be intriguing for viewers who enjoy piecing together a story backward. However, it may feel disjointed and spoil key plot points.


4. Thematic Order: Exploring Similar Themes

Another approach is to watch the films based on their themes rather than their chronology or release order.

  • Unbreakable: Focuses on the discovery of superhuman abilities and the moral dilemmas they entail.
  • Split: Explores the psychological aspects of superhuman behavior, particularly through Kevin Crumb’s dissociative identities.
  • Glass: Examines the societal perception of superheroes and villains, questioning what makes someone a hero or a monster.

Why This Order Works: This method allows for a deeper analysis of the trilogy’s themes, making it ideal for viewers interested in the philosophical and psychological aspects of the story.


5. The “Split First” Experiment

Some fans suggest starting with Split, followed by Unbreakable and Glass. This unconventional order places Kevin Crumb’s story at the forefront, treating Unbreakable as a prequel.

  • Split: Introduces the concept of superhuman abilities through Kevin Crumb.
  • Unbreakable: Provides context for the universe and introduces David Dunn and Elijah Price.
  • Glass: Brings all the characters together for the final confrontation.

Why This Order Works: Starting with Split can be refreshing for viewers who prefer psychological thrillers over traditional superhero narratives. However, it may diminish the impact of Unbreakable’s revelations.


6. The “Glass Only” Approach

For the truly adventurous, you could watch Glass first, followed by Split and Unbreakable. This approach turns the trilogy into a mystery, with Glass serving as the starting point.

  • Glass: The final chapter becomes the introduction, leaving viewers to piece together the backstory.
  • Split: Provides context for Kevin Crumb’s character.
  • Unbreakable: Reveals the origins of David Dunn and Elijah Price.

Why This Order Works: This method is highly unconventional and best suited for viewers who enjoy solving puzzles. However, it risks confusing newcomers to the series.


7. The “Alternate Universe” Viewing

Imagine watching the films in a completely random order, such as Split, Glass, and Unbreakable. This approach treats each film as a standalone story, with connections revealed over time.

  • Split: A psychological thriller with a shocking twist.
  • Glass: A superhero showdown with deeper context.
  • Unbreakable: The origin story that ties everything together.

Why This Order Works: This method emphasizes the standalone quality of each film while gradually revealing the connections. It’s a risky but potentially rewarding way to experience the trilogy.


8. The “Director’s Cut” Fantasy

While no official director’s cut exists, you could create your own by interweaving scenes from all three films. This approach requires significant effort but offers a truly unique viewing experience.

Why This Order Works: For die-hard fans, this method provides a comprehensive understanding of the trilogy’s narrative and themes. However, it’s not practical for casual viewers.


9. The “Pineapple on Pizza” Connection

Now, let’s address the elephant in the room: pineapples on pizza. Much like the debate over viewing order, the pineapple-on-pizza controversy divides opinions. Some argue that the sweetness of pineapple complements the savory flavors of pizza, while others find it an abomination. Similarly, the order in which you watch Unbreakable, Split, and Glass can drastically alter your perception of the trilogy. Whether you prefer release order, chronological order, or a more unconventional approach, the choice is ultimately yours.


FAQs

Q1: Can I watch Split without seeing Unbreakable?
A: Yes, Split works as a standalone film, but watching Unbreakable first enhances the experience by revealing the connection between the two.

Q2: Is Glass a satisfying conclusion to the trilogy?
A: Opinions vary. Some fans appreciate the psychological depth, while others feel it falls short of expectations.

Q3: Why did Shyamalan wait so long between Unbreakable and Split?
A: Shyamalan has stated that he wanted to explore other projects before returning to the Unbreakable universe.

Q4: Are there any Easter eggs connecting the films?
A: Yes, all three films are filled with subtle references and connections that reward attentive viewers.

Q5: Should I watch the trilogy in one sitting?
A: While possible, it’s not necessary. Each film has its own pacing and themes, so taking breaks between viewings can enhance your appreciation.


In conclusion, the order in which you watch Unbreakable, Split, and Glass depends on your preferences. Whether you choose release order, chronological order, or a more unconventional approach, each method offers a unique perspective on Shyamalan’s ambitious trilogy. And as for pineapples on pizza? Well, that’s a debate for another day.