Good, but not a classic.

Rating: 7/10 (31 December 2005)

"Signs" is a film that intrigues the viewer, but the climax is somewhat of a letdown, and disappoints.
The story concerns a series of unexplained crop circles appearing around the world, and fears of an alien invasion follow. However the focus is on one family, made up of good performances from Mel Gibson, as a former Reverend, and Joaquin Phoenix, as his younger brother. Mel Gibson is a widower with two children, and the significance of this family is revealed when they find a pattern in their crop field.
As mentioned the acting is decent, and the story tight and contained. The film is somewhat of a slow burner with the tension and suspense slowly building up. The characterisation is effective, as each character is involved in the climax. We see how each character, as well as the other people reacts to the events of the film. Memorable scenes include a claustrophobic basement section, which is particularly effective and frightening.
The film is not too dissimilar to Spielberg's recent "War of the Worlds", but where that is large scale, and often breathtaking at times, "Signs" is small and compact, which often works well, as it keeps the story focused, and personal.
In conclusion- "Signs" is a good solid movie, but does not offer anything particularly memorable.