**** out of ****

Rating: 8/10 (15 August 2002)

M. Night Shyamalan has been compared to Alfred Hitchcock, possibly as the "new master of suspense". While these claims have yet to be proven, he is certainly on the road to such a title if he can keep up work this solid over his career.
Graham Hess (Mel Gibson) is a minister who's wife died in a car accident, causing him to lose his faith. He lives with his brother Merrill (Joaquin Phoenix), and his son and daughter (Rory Culkin and Abigail Breslin). One morning, he finds crop circles on his farm, leading to a series of events involving the possibility of alien life forms. I won't say the rest of it, as any more information may spoil the suspense.
"Signs" is the best movie made since "Traffic", not because of any deeper meaning, although there is one, but simple because of the sheer suspense and quality of filmmaking. It is in a way, reminiscent of Alfred Hitchcock, although I don't like comparing the master to any other filmmakers, no matter what I think of them. The style of suspense building and character development shows the obvious influence Hitchcock had upon Shyamalan.
Aside from the spectacular technical merits of the film, it is a well told story, with solid characters and an interesting plot. The heavy handed way the questions of fate and faith are presented may turn some viewers off, but like them or not, they can't overshadow a fine piece of filmmaking. The "twist" in the end, which isn't really a twist, but similar to one, is interesting but not impressive to the extent that the twist in "The Sixth Sense". It certainly isn't the reason for watching the movie.
"Signs" is the best movie of the year, thus far, and is certainly an excellent addition to the resumes of M. Night Shyamalan (who impressively wrote, directed, and produced) as well as Mel Gibson and Joaquin Phoenix. If you enjoy not so much terror, although many people do find this movie scary, but rather excellent suspense, that also has some intelligence, this movie is for you.