The Signal (2014)
The Signal (2014) is a science fiction thriller directed by William Eubank. The film follows three college students—Nic (Brenton Thwaites), Jonah (Beau Knapp), and Haley (Olivia Cooke)—who are on a road trip across the United States. During their journey, they are lured by a mysterious hacker, NOMAD, who has been taunting them online with cryptic messages.
While following NOMAD’s signal to a remote location in the Nevada desert, their car breaks down. They are then ambushed and taken to a high-tech government facility. Nic, who is recovering from a previous accident that left him partially paralyzed, experiences strange hallucinations and confusion as he discovers that the facility is not what it seems.
As the plot unfolds, it is revealed that the students have been subjected to a government experiment involving extraterrestrial life and advanced technology. Nic uncovers shocking truths about their situation and the true nature of the signals they have been chasing, leading to a twist ending that leaves them questioning the reality of their experiences.
The film explores themes of identity, reality, and the consequences of meddling with powerful, unknown forces. It blends elements of psychological thriller, sci-fi, and mystery.