10 Movies and TV Shows Similar to Signs (2002)

Description: As one of the first horror films to combine supernatural terror with deep religious themes, The Exorcist paved the way for films like Signs. Both explore faith in the face of the inexplicable, with priests as central characters. The intense focus on a family in crisis connects these films emotionally.

Fact: The 'spider-walk' scene was cut from the original release but restored in later versions. Several strange accidents occurred during filming, fueling rumors of a curse. It was the first horror film nominated for Best Picture at the Oscars.

Description: Poltergeist shares with Signs the theme of supernatural forces invading a suburban family home. Both films balance horror with family dynamics and feature children in peril. The gradual escalation from strange occurrences to full-blown terror is a hallmark of both films.

Fact: The skeletons in the pool scene were real human remains. The film's tagline 'They're here' became iconic. It sparked controversy over whether Spielberg actually directed it (officially credited to Tobe Hooper).

Description: Like Signs, The Sixth Sense is a supernatural thriller that blends family drama with horror elements. Both films explore themes of grief, faith, and the unknown, with a slow-burning tension that culminates in a shocking twist. The emotional weight and psychological depth in both films elevate them beyond typical horror fare.

Fact: Bruce Willis' character is revealed to be dead in the iconic twist ending, which was kept a secret during the film's marketing. The famous line 'I see dead people' was improvised by child actor Haley Joel Osment. Director M. Night Shyamalan was only 28 when he made this film.

Description: The Others shares with Signs a haunting atmosphere and a focus on family dynamics in the face of supernatural occurrences. Both films use restraint and suggestion rather than gore, creating psychological horror. The religious undertones and themes of protecting one's family are central to both stories.

Fact: Nicole Kidman performed all her own piano playing in the film. The entire movie was shot in sequence, which is rare for film productions. Director Alejandro Amenábar also composed the film's score.

Description: The Ring, like Signs, features mysterious, unexplained phenomena that must be decoded to stop a supernatural threat. Both films use visual media (video tape in The Ring, crop circles in Signs) as conduits for the supernatural. The atmospheric tension and investigative elements are strong parallels.

Fact: The famous 'closet scene' was shot in reverse to achieve its unnatural movement. The cursed video was actually played on TV stations as marketing. Naomi Watts' breakout Hollywood role after Mulholland Drive.

Description: While more minimalist than Signs, Paranormal Activity shares its focus on supernatural phenomena invading a family home. Both films build tension through subtle, unexplained occurrences that escalate over time. The found-footage style of Paranormal Activity creates a similar sense of realism and immediacy to Signs' documentary-like approach.

Fact: The entire film was shot in just seven days. The original budget was only $15,

Description: The Conjuring, like Signs, is based on supposedly true events and features a family terrorized by supernatural forces. Both films blend horror with strong family themes and feature protagonists who must confront their fears to protect their loved ones. The period setting of The Conjuring adds to its atmospheric tension, similar to Signs' rural isolation.

Fact: The real-life Lorraine Warren was on set as a consultant. The film's 'clap' scene was completely improvised. It spawned an entire cinematic universe of spin-offs.

Description: Sinister shares with Signs the theme of uncovering a dark mystery through discovered footage (home movies in Sinister, news reports in Signs). Both films feature writers investigating supernatural occurrences that ultimately threaten their families. The slow reveal of a larger, more terrifying truth connects these films.

Fact: The creepy home movies were inspired by real snuff film rumors. Ethan Hawke's character was originally written as much older. The film's demon, Bughuul, is based on ancient Mesopotamian mythology.

Description: The Babadook shares with Signs the theme of parental protection against supernatural threats. Both films use the monster as a metaphor for emotional trauma (grief in Signs, depression in The Babadook). The focus on a single mother and child relationship under extreme stress connects these films deeply.

Fact: The Babadook book featured in the film was created by the director. The film's sound design was crucial to its terrifying effect. It became a surprise cult hit and LGBTQ+ icon years after release.

Description: Hereditary, like Signs, explores family trauma through the lens of supernatural horror. Both films feature shocking, unexpected deaths that change the course of the story. The meticulous framing and slow-building dread are characteristic of both films, as is their exploration of grief.

Fact: Toni Collette's scream after discovering a body was completely genuine. The miniature houses were all built by hand for the film. Director Ari Aster drew inspiration from classic horror films like Rosemary's Baby.