Common Sense Media Review
By S. Jhoanna Robledo
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Lukewarm dramedy is OK for teens but lacks power.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 14+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
Videos and Photos
An Invisible Sign
What's the Story?
Since the fateful day when Mona Grey's (Jessica Alba) father collapsed at the outdoor track when she was a little girl, she has relied on magical thinking -- especially as it centers around her favorite subject, math -- to see her through. She counts digits to feel safe, make decisions, and assess people. Then Mona's mother (Sonia Braga) kicks her out of the house so she can live her own life instead of feeling terrible about her dad. Mona ends up getting a job as a teacher at her old school, where she meets students with enormous problems -- as well as a handsome colleague (Chris Messina). Ultimately Mona learns how much her habits are hampering both her growth and her happiness.
Is It Any Good?
For a movie crowded with dramatic material -- depression, disease, family strife, genius -- AN INVISIBLE SIGN scarcely makes itself felt. It means well but has no energy, no soul. Despite sometimes stunning cinematography that soaks moments in glorious color, it's mostly devoid of life. And Alba tries very hard (sometimes too hard) with the material, but there are some basic flaws. First, who decided that math geniuses have to be dressed in stereotypically nerdy garb? Given how neurotic she is already, why must Mona also eat soap? Is it an attempt to add more quirk, as if quirkiness will magically morph into charm? (It doesn't.)
The movie has some sort-of heartwarming moments; the way that Mona rescues a young student who reminds her of herself and who's dealing with much too much sadness for her age nearly connects with the audience. But in the end, the film fails to connect.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the movie's messages. What is it saying about love? Should you ever have to compromise who you are to be in a relationship?
How does the film portray smart, mathematically talented girls? Do you find that depiction realistic? Flattering? Insulting?
Movie Details
- In theaters : May 6, 2011
- On DVD or streaming : November 1, 2011
- Cast : Chris Messina , J.K. Simmons , Jessica Alba
- Director : Marilyn Agrelo
- Inclusion Information : Female Movie Actor(s) , Latino Movie Actor(s)
- Studio : Ideal Partners
- Genre : Drama
- Run time : 96 minutes
- MPAA rating :
- MPAA explanation : mature thematic material and some disturbing images
- Last updated : July 4, 2022
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