See it in the theater

Rating: 9/10 (14 August 2002)

Although I knew during the first 1/2 hour that I'll be buying the DVD
as soon as it's released, this is a film that you have to see in the
theater to appreciate. I'm not a film professional or an experienced
critic, but I am experienced in enjoying an interesting film and this
one is awesome. I don't know what it is about Shyamalan's movie
making style, but for me it has a great appeal and I really enjoy
seeing his visions on the big screen. Of course, being from
Philadelphia, I ALWAYS pay to see the hometowners who made
good. After thoroughly enjoying "The Sixth Sense" and
"Unbreakable" I know for sure that I am a definite Shyamalan fan.
"Signs" was no exception. Aside from the scenic beauty of rural
Bucks County, PA and the awesome camera work that has become Shyamalan's trademark, this is a great story and is told in
such a great way.
---SPOILERS ---
The film focuses on a single family's activity during an
unbelievable crisis...namely, an alien invasion. Mel Gibson plays
former minister Graham Hess who, through the tragic loss of his
wife, has turned his back on the Church and God. His brother
Merrill, played by Joaquin Phoenix (who once again is awesome)
has come to live with him and help him with his farm and children.
His son, an asthmatic boy who is extremely bright is played by
Rory Culkin (who has definitely followed in his brother Macaulay's
footsteps). His daughter, a really cute Abigail Breslin, has a
phobia with the condition of her drinking water that plays a big part
in the climax of the film. Shyamalan, who normally takes a small,
well placed Hitchcock-esque cameo, takes on a larger part in this
film being the man who fell asleep at the wheel of his truck and
ran Graham's wife down.
The movie has lots of the great stuff that I enjoy in a film. It's very
funny at times and has just enough suspense and "jump" value to
make it very enjoyable to watch. It did start a little slow, but that's
the pace I believe Shyamalan was going for. You soon warm into
the story and have a great time just being tingled.
Don't wait for the tape or DVD. See this one in the theater. I gave it
a 9 on the IMDB scale.