M. Night Shyamalan’s Remain has impressed viewers at its first screening. The film premiered at BeyondFest as a surprise screening on September 29, 2026. The Shyamalan-directed movie features Jake Gyllenhaal and Phoebe Dynevor leading the supernatural romance. Overall, early reactions have praised its mix of romance, horror, comedy, visuals, and emotional storytelling.
@Srirachachau called Remain “one of his best ones” and said it is “such a fun ride.” They described the film as “very funny, scary, and romantic” and praised its inventive visuals. They also highlighted the film’s VistaVision photography, adding that Shyamalan “really goes nuts with the camera.”
Critic Griff Schiller similarly praised the film’s sincerity and emotional elements. They called Remain “Shyamalan at his most earnest and sincere” and described it as a “heartfelt and romantic throwback to his early work.” Schiller also praised James Newton Howard’s score and called Gyllenhaal a “perfect Shyamalan lead.”
@kingofburbank2 praised the film’s technical elements, calling Remain
@kingofburbank2 praised the film’s technical elements, calling Remain “M Night’s most polished film in some time.” They also praised Gyllenhaal for his handling of Shyamalan’s trademark awkward humor and noted his “major chemistry” with Dynevor.
Carlos Aguilar described Remain as “a really enjoyable, consistently funny ghost story.” He praised Gyllenhaal’s performance and pointed to the film’s unusual combination of Shyamalan’s supernatural storytelling and Nicholas Sparks’ romantic style.
What is M. Night Shyamalan’s Remain movie about?
Remain follows Tate Gordon, a New York architect who travels to Cape Cod for a new project. His life takes an unexpected turn after meeting Wren, a mysterious woman connected to the supernatural events surrounding the town.
Gyllenhaal stars as Tate, while Dynevor plays Wren
Gyllenhaal stars as Tate, while Dynevor plays Wren. Their characters’ relationship forms the emotional center of the story as Tate becomes increasingly involved in the mystery.
The film is based on a story Shyamalan developed with Nicholas Sparks. Sparks also wrote a novel based on the story, while Shyamalan wrote and directed the film. The project combines Shyamalan’s interest in supernatural mysteries with Sparks’ focus on romance and relationships.
James Newton Howard composed the film’s score, continuing his creative collaboration with Shyamalan. Meanwhile, the film uses VistaVision, which several early reactions have highlighted.
Remain will arrive in theaters on February 5, 2027.
