SIGNS (2002)

It's happening.


GENRE
Drama/Mystery/Horror


STORYLINE
A family living on a farm finds mysterious crop circles in their fields which suggests something more frightening to come.


DIRECTOR
M. Night Shayamalan


CAST
Mel Gibson
Joaquin Phoenix
Rory Culkin
Abigal Breslin


MY REVIEW
Crop Circles have been found in numerous farms around the world.Some believe they are the works of extra-terrestrials while others argue against it.Are Crop Circles a warning, a message or a sign of the things to come or are they just a hoax, made by some people as a prank or just for some fun.This is the theme the film explores.


The story is about a former priest Graham Hess (Mel Gibson) who has lost all his faith in god after his wife's death.Now he live in a farm along with his brother Merril Hess (Joaquin Phoenix) and his children Morgan Hess (Rory Culkin) and Bo Hess(Abigal Breslin). One day the family finds a crop circle in their house. They report it to the police feeling it must be the work of a prankster. Reports of various crop circle appearing in farms around the world makes them realize that this could be something else. Something that could be hostile.It is about how these events rekindle Graham's faith in god and hoe the family sticks with each other for survival.


This movie is a brilliant mystery movie by M Night Shayamlan (also known for The Sixth Sense).The way he is able to keep you glued to this movie is amazing. Some scenes are exceptional especially the Brazilian Birthday party scene which just scares the hell out of you.The best thing about this movie is that when you see the movie you are always curious to know, wondering what happens next, how do the aliens look, are they friendly or hostile These things make the movie a must watch.


As for the acting Mel Gibson as the priest is highly convincing. He appears to have lost all his faith in God but these events tend to rekindle his faith, makes him question his destiny, his purpose.This character has not only been written well but also executed the same way.Joaquin is not as good as he was in The Gladiator but still he has done a great job. Playing the brother of the priest, he is shown more as a believer. He fears the aliens and does bizarre things to make them go away.The children have also supported the cast well.


The High point of this film is definitely its script. Combing the theme  of faith and Crop Circles, the makers have given us a Mystery/Horror film that you keep thinking about even after the movie has ended.Too bad I missed such a film when it was available in the Cinemas.
Watch it for the thrills and chills.You might just enjoy it.


MY RATING 8/10


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