Where was the movie Signs filmed? And why do aliens always seem to prefer cornfields?

The 2002 science fiction thriller Signs, directed by M. Night Shyamalan, is a film that has left an indelible mark on pop culture. Known for its suspenseful storytelling and eerie atmosphere, the movie revolves around a family dealing with mysterious crop circles and extraterrestrial phenomena. One of the most intriguing aspects of the film is its setting, which plays a crucial role in building tension and enhancing the narrative. But where exactly was Signs filmed? And why do aliens in movies always seem to gravitate toward cornfields? Let’s dive into the details.

The Filming Locations of Signs

The primary filming location for Signs was Bucks County, Pennsylvania. This rural area, known for its picturesque landscapes and small-town charm, provided the perfect backdrop for the film’s isolated farmhouse setting. The specific farm used in the movie is located in Newtown, Pennsylvania, a town that has become somewhat of a staple in Shyamalan’s films. The director, who resides in the area, often incorporates local landmarks and scenery into his work, creating a sense of familiarity and authenticity.

The farmhouse itself was constructed specifically for the film, designed to reflect the simplicity and vulnerability of the Hess family, who are at the center of the story. The surrounding cornfields, which play a pivotal role in the plot, were also real and added to the film’s eerie ambiance. The choice of a rural setting was deliberate, as it amplifies the feeling of isolation and helplessness that the characters experience when faced with an otherworldly threat.

Why Cornfields?

Cornfields have become a recurring motif in alien invasion movies, and Signs is no exception. But why do filmmakers seem to favor this particular setting? Here are a few possible reasons:

1. Symbolism of Isolation: Cornfields are often associated with rural, sparsely populated areas. This isolation creates a sense of vulnerability, making it easier for filmmakers to build tension and suspense. In Signs, the Hess family’s farm is surrounded by vast cornfields, emphasizing their separation from the rest of the world.

2. Mystery and Concealment: The height and density of cornstalks make them ideal for hiding things—whether it’s an alien, a predator, or a mysterious figure. This element of concealment adds to the suspense, as characters (and the audience) are never quite sure what might be lurking just out of sight.

3. Cultural Significance: In American culture, cornfields are often linked to the heartland and traditional values. By setting an alien invasion in such a familiar and wholesome environment, filmmakers can create a stark contrast between the ordinary and the extraordinary, heightening the sense of unease.

4. Practicality: From a production standpoint, cornfields are relatively easy to create or find. They also provide a visually striking backdrop that can be manipulated to suit the tone of the film. In Signs, the cornfields are not just a setting but an integral part of the story, serving as both a hiding place for the aliens and a source of fear for the characters.

The Role of Setting in Signs

The setting of Signs is more than just a backdrop; it’s a character in its own right. The film’s rural environment contributes to its overall mood and themes in several ways:

1. Claustrophobia in Open Spaces: Despite being set in a wide-open rural area, Signs manages to create a sense of claustrophobia. The vast cornfields and empty roads emphasize the family’s isolation, making them feel trapped even in the middle of nowhere.

2. Contrast Between the Ordinary and the Extraordinary: The Hess family’s farm is a place of routine and simplicity, which makes the arrival of the aliens all the more shocking. The juxtaposition of everyday life with the extraordinary events of the film underscores the disruption caused by the alien invasion.

3. Spiritual Undertones: The film’s setting also ties into its spiritual themes. The rural environment, with its connection to nature and the cycles of life, serves as a metaphor for faith and the unknown. The crop circles, which are central to the plot, can be seen as a form of divine communication or a test of faith.

Behind the Scenes: Creating the Atmosphere

The filmmakers went to great lengths to create the atmospheric setting of Signs. Here are some interesting behind-the-scenes details:

1. The Farmhouse Construction: The farmhouse was built from scratch on a private property in Bucks County. The design was intentionally modest to reflect the Hess family’s humble lifestyle. The interior was also meticulously crafted to feel lived-in and authentic.

2. The Cornfields: The cornfields were planted specifically for the film and were carefully maintained to ensure they looked just right on camera. The production team even used wind machines to create the rustling sound of the cornstalks, adding to the film’s eerie atmosphere.

3. Lighting and Cinematography: The film’s visual style, characterized by muted colors and natural lighting, was designed to enhance the realism of the setting. Cinematographer Tak Fujimoto used a combination of wide shots and close-ups to capture both the vastness of the landscape and the intimacy of the family’s struggles.

The Legacy of Signs

Nearly two decades after its release, Signs remains a standout film in the science fiction genre. Its unique blend of suspense, emotion, and spiritual undertones has resonated with audiences around the world. The film’s setting, with its iconic farmhouse and cornfields, has become synonymous with the story and continues to be a topic of discussion among fans.

Related Questions

1. Why did M. Night Shyamalan choose Pennsylvania as the filming location for Signs?
   Shyamalan has a personal connection to Pennsylvania, as he resides in the state. He often uses local settings in his films to create a sense of authenticity and familiarity.

2. Are the crop circles in Signs based on real-life phenomena?
   While crop circles have been reported in real life, the ones in Signs are purely fictional and serve as a plot device to introduce the alien threat.

3. What other movies have used cornfields as a key setting?
   Cornfields have appeared in numerous films, including Field of Dreams, Children of the Corn, and Interstellar. They are often used to evoke a sense of mystery and isolation.

4. How did the filmmakers create the alien sounds in Signs?
   The alien sounds were created using a combination of animal noises, electronic effects, and human vocals. The result is a chilling and otherworldly soundscape that adds to the film’s tension.

5. Is the farmhouse from Signs still standing?
   The farmhouse was a temporary structure built for the film and was dismantled after production wrapped. However, the location in Bucks County remains a point of interest for fans.