Brilliant and Hitchcockian!

Rating: 10/10 (26 January 2003)

M. Night Shyamalan has crafted a brilliant and wonderful film in "Signs". Dare I say that with this specific film he's reached Hitchcockian levels in his writing and directing, and that's no small feat.
***Reading Further May Spoil The Plot***
I dragged my heels in seeing this, thinking "oh great, yet ANOTHER cliched movie about crop circles." From the opening credits to the very last moment, Shyamalan creates an atmospheric and thrilling masterpiece. Casting Mel Gibson in the lead could've been a huge mistake, but under the artful eye of the director, Gibson gives a nuanced and understated performance as a damaged and faithless former priest. Joaquin Phoenix as his brother was a casting coup, as Phoenix never fails to give a wonderfully believable performance. That Phoenix brings a stunning resolution to the plot was another piece of brilliant decision-making.
Exploring the possibilities of alien visitation on earth, Shyamalan manages to subtly portray one possible outcome of such an event without rubbing it in our faces. Taking his time to unravel the story works well, allowing the viewer to be drawn in in every way. As Hitchcock also teased his audience with what was to come, Shyamalan uses several techniques to good effect.

Having viewed this film, I am convinced that M. Night Shyamalan is a filmmaking genius.