Woah, "The Mist" Still Messes Me Up (Good Cinematography Tho!)

Okay, so I randomly rewatched "The Mist" (2007) last night and wow, that ending STILL punches you in the gut. I know it's a Stephen King adaptation, but I always forget just how bleak it is. I was actually paying closer attention to the cinematography this time around though, and I think it really helps sell the claustrophobia and growing paranoia. The way they use the limited space of the supermarket, especially as more people crowd in and start losing it, is super effective. Like, you can FEEL the tension building in scenes like when Mrs. Carmody starts getting her followers all riled up. I think the director (Frank Darabont, just looked it up!) did a really good job of making you feel trapped. He really nailed the visual representation of the fog; it was so thick and ominous! The lighting gets progressively worse inside the store too, mirroring the decline of hope, which I thought was pretty neat. It's not the flashiest movie visually, but it's really solid and well-executed in how it creates a sense of dread and isolation. I keep thinking about how the limited view from the windows probably saved on the effects budget, LOL, but also added to the horror. I know some people find the religious fanaticism storyline a bit heavy-handed, and I can see that, but Marcia Gay Harden freaking killed that role. seriously, she was terrifying. And Thomas Jane? His performance was just chef's kiss perfect. He really sold the desperation and fear, especially in that final scene (no spoilers!). Its not a perfect movie, but it's definitely one that stays with you. It's a little cheesy at times, but in a charming way, you know? Anyone else still think about "The Mist" years later? What are your thoughts on the ending? It's definitely one of the most controversial ones I've ever seen, and I find myself changing my mind about it every time I watch it. It's almost like the horror isnt in the creatures, but what people are capable of. Anyway, let me know if anyone feels the same!