The Signal: Movie Review

What happens when three M.I.T. students drive to Nevada and wind up in the middle of nowhere, so they can track down a computer hacker that has been toying with them? Answer, they wind up separated and placed in some sort of government facility that believes the students have come in contact with extra-terrestrials. That is the basic premise for the not-so-basic sci-fi/thriller “The Signal”.

William Eubank, who has worked mainly as a Cinematographer throughout most of his career, brings a unique visual style to “The Signal”. Even though, this is an indie film, there are a few sequences, especially in the film’s final act that will impress many. I would love to give an example, but by doing so, I would be giving away part of the story’s twist. Brenton Thwaites pretty much carries “The Signal” as Nic. He has no idea where he is, or what happened to his friend Jonah (Beau Knapp). His girlfriend Hailey (Olivia Cooke) is in a coma, but the head of the facility, Damon (Laurence Fishburne) won’t let Nic be with her.

“The Signal” is tense and original at times, but it tends to get a little drawn out by the mid-way point. What saves the film is the performances by its characters. Fishburne doesn’t have to do much more than just be Fishburne and that’s alright with me. He serves his purpose. I am sure “The Signal” is going to get lost in the Summer shuffle, but I think sci-fi diehards will find a lot to like with this one.

By: Marc Ferman