‘Signs’ goes deeper than first appears

Evan Marmol

“Signs” will be the one of the many movies to place the veteran

actor Mel Gibson and director M. Night Shyamalan in the annuls of

Hollywood history.

Shyamalan proves that he is not a one hit wonder benefiting from

the glorious screen writing and acting of “The Sixth Sense.” “Signs,”

also resplendent with colorful screen personalities, neither fumbles

nor falters in its attempts to horrify and captivate the audience;

the result is a consummate masterpiece.

Gibson portrays a convincing reverend that is disenfranchised with

his faith and profession, due to ill-fated and devastating

circumstances. Living with his two children and retired minor league

baseball player brother (Joaquin Phoenix), Gibson becomes obsessed

with his devotion for his children and farm. The family members each

display their own quirks and personalized malaise throughout the

film.

At times these eccentricities are tiresome and seemingly

pointless, and it is under this audience uncertainty that Shyamalan

thrives. It is by virtue of the character’s idiosyncrasies that the

movie evolves and the catharsis is conceived. The culmination of an

often disjointed plot fascinates the moviegoer and the resolution is

the pinnacle of cinematic perfection.

“Signs” incorporates just enough science fiction and science fact

to convince its audience. The remote becomes plausible and

imagination is given full reign. Essentially, the movie questions

faith and the resilience of the human spirit. The result is a film

that invokes a deep appreciation for the gifts of life, and the

interconnectedness of all creation.

* DIANE and IGAL SILBER are Laguna Beach residents and avid film

buffs.

‘K-19’ a little light on excitement

Harrison Ford, the perennial hero, contends with his most

formidable opponent yet -- the chip on his shoulder.

The son of a controversial war hero and political dissident,

Ford’s character is compelled to prove his worth and loyalty to

mother Russia. His character has been chosen to navigate the

embodiment of power and innovation that is K-19, the first Soviet

nuclear ballistic submarine. But, K-19 is not as hospitable as the

crew would have hoped.

Appropriately nicknamed “The Widow Maker,” this submarine

systematically claims the lives of its engineers and builders. Ford

assumes command of the vessel, alongside Liam Neeson, and together

they embark on a maiden voyage of global implications.

As Ford strives ceaselessly for respect and credibility, he pushes

his crew to the thresholds of physical and psychological limits. When

the K-19 is severely damaged and set hopelessly adrift, Ford must

prove that he is a true leader. The uncompromising sea captain is

forced to choose between pride and blinding arrogance, or compassion

and reason.

The movie is reminiscent of a history channel expose. It is dry

and informative at times, and will serve as a great sedative when it

comes out on video. “K-19” plods along listlessly and never really

captivates the audience. The only saving grace is the experience of

Ford and charisma of Neeson. The supporting cast also contributes in

a wholehearted effort to keep “K-19,” the movie not the submarine,

from sinking into the murky depths of outright boredom.

* EVAN MARMOL is Laguna Resident. he graduated from UC Irvine

with a degree in Psychology and Social Behavior.