Common Sense Media Review
By Christie Cronan
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Thoughtful, unsettling sci-fi tale has violence, language.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 14+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
Videos and Photos
Signal One
Parent and Kid Reviews
What's the Story?
SIGNAL ONE explores the consequences and curiosities of humans' first attempt at communication with aliens when brilliant computer scientist Annika (Isabelle Fuhrman) and engineer Charlie Kaminsky (Josh Hutcherson) are recruited by visionary tech billionaire Sam Houston (Dennis Quaid) to work with the creator of a machine that has the potential to communicate with extraterrestrial intelligence.
Is It Any Good?
A thoughtful but cautionary vision of the consequences of curiosity and discovery, this sci-fi drama explores humanity's obsession with connecting with the universe. Signal One is a slow but thought-provoking look at the full range of humans' strengths and flaws, exploring how humanity's desire for bigger connection could ultimately be the downfall of the species.
While the acting, science, and technology aren't overly convincing, the bigger (albeit unsettling) themes carry the story. Philosophically questioning, morally conflicting, and existentially examining, this film exposes our tendencies toward self-destruction, fear-driven action, and impulsive decisions while presenting the potential ramifications of communicating with extraterrestrial intelligence.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about what Signal One suggests about the importance of listening vs. reacting. Do you think the characters were acting out of fear, curiosity, or both?
How do you think the filmmakers want viewers to feel about communicating with aliens? How might sci-fi films influence people's opinions about space, exploration, and discovery?
Do you agree with the idea that humans are a "flawed species, safe from the universe, but not ourselves"? Could contact with humans be more dangerous than contact with aliens? Why, or why not?
How do characters demonstrate communication, curiosity, and teamwork? Why are those important character strengths?
Movie Details
- In theaters : June 5, 2026
- Cast : Isabelle Fuhrman , Josh Hutcherson , David Thewlis , Dennis Quaid
- Director : Jonathan Sobol
- Inclusion Information : Female Movie Actor(s)
- Studio : Radial Entertainment
- Genre : Science Fiction
- Topics : Adventures , Aliens , Space
- Character Strengths : Communication , Curiosity , Teamwork
- Run time : 87 minutes
- MPAA rating :
- Last updated : June 7, 2026
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