Film reviews, entertainment news, and insight.
Signal, The (2007)
Rated: R | Review date: 16-Oct-2009
Sometimes we lose sight of reality in between our obsessions with television, cell phones, and other possessions. We get so caught up in the fast paced technological world around us, that we rarely stop and appreciate the small things. One of these days we’re going to drive ourselves ape shit crazy. Well, that’s roughly the concept behind The Signal, an experimental masterpiece conceived by the writer/director trio of David Bruckner, Jacob Gentry, and Dan Bush.
The film is divided into three parts, or “transmissions”, with each segment being directed by a different director. This becomes quite obvious while watching, as each transmission could almost be a different movie with the same characters. The story involves a mystifying signal being transmitted through radio waves. Those who watch the signal become captivated by it, and eventually they start to get a little brainsick.
Anessa Ramsey and Justin Welborn are excellent as main characters Mya and Ben. The supporting cast is excellent as well, each bringing a different and interesting personality to the mix. The dialogue is very realistic and natural, except during the psychological and twisted parts where it was just bizarre and hilarious. Each character has unique reactions during the chaotic events at hand, never allowing a dull moment.
The directing style was great. As mentioned, the different styles between the three transmissions were all unique in their own right, but still joined together for a fine film. It blends psychological thrilling elements with dark comedy, gore horror, and a science fiction twist. This film deserves great applause for managing to merge these many different elements and still manage to produce an engaging and unique motion picture. Additionally, the sequences involving the headphones were beautiful, with a great supporting soundtrack.
The Signal is one of the most unique and refreshing films I’ve seen in recent years. It’s a funny and thrilling horror piece, that also has some social commentary undertones thrown in to top it off. It’s experimental attitude provides an entertaining ride that is also well balanced with some serious dramatic moments. The movie manages to thrill, excite, and emotionally grab us, and it does so on a tiny budget ($50,000). So just remember: the next time you think you’re going to go crazy if you lose your cell phone, you just might.
Rating: 6 out of 7
I absolutely agree! I LOVED The Signal. I saw it on netflix and was just shocked at how good it was. I am constantly telling friends to see it. I was very impressed by it.