Signs is a truly frightening and expertly engineered reinvention of the "alien invasion" sub-genre.

Rating: 7/10 (2 September 2002)

M. Night Shyamalan has finally completely convinced me of his creative genius by following up two brilliant films(both surprising and powerfully original explorations of familiar and time-worn genres)-The Sixth Sense and Unbreakable-with yet another that not only lives up to his previous works, but in some aspects even surpasses them. Signs is everything I hoped it would be, and definitely more-Shyamalan has personalised the "alien invasion" sub-genre, which has spawned explosive and grandiose special-effects laden blockbusters like Independence Day as well as classics like War of the Worlds and Invasion of the Body Snatchers, with truly amazing results. In Signs, Shyamalan focuses on a single family, and (might be considered a SPOILER)unfolds a worldwide alien invasion through their eyes, wrapping this entire scenario with an issue of lost faith. What results is riveting, truly frightening, moving, funny, meaningful, in turns, and most importantly of a palpable intensity that is so lacking in most newer "horror films", or most films of any genre in recent times, that it will leave the viewer breathless and completely taken aback-most pleasurably, that is. Note that pleasure is used simply for lack of any other word-Signs will do far more than stimulate the nerves with mild entertainment. It moved me to heights of emotion, be it fear, anxiety, nervousness, sadness, and many other hues of the mental spectrum. Signs is cinematic art- visuals, acting, sound, music, and pure, throbbing creativity combine to make it an unforgettable experience. Go see it.