'The Signal' Review: Peri Baumeister and Yuna Bennett create lasting impact in Netflix's sci-fi miniseries
Contains spoilers for ‘The Signal’
BERLIN, GERMANY: Calling all sci-fi fans! Have you been missing a good mystery set among the stars? Look no further than 'The Signal' (2024), a fresh German miniseries on Netflix. Das Signal, as it's known in its native tongue, blends sci-fi intrigue with a touch of drama.
Prepare for a thrilling four-episode adventure following scientist Paula Baumeister (Peri Baumeister) on a unique mission aboard the International Space Station. Funded by a billionaire with a profound fascination for extraterrestrial life, Paula's journey is anything but ordinary.
Following a mysterious mission, astronaut Paula Baumeister returns to Earth. The reunion with her family, husband Sven (Florian David Fitz), and daughter Charlie (Yuna Bennett) is tantalizingly close. However, a plane ride can't erase the mysteries swirling around her return.
While Apple TV+'s 'Constellation' might come to mind with this space station setting, 'The Signal' promises a distinct path, venturing beyond the isolation and claustrophobia often depicted, to explore the thrilling mysteries that lie just beyond our atmosphere.
A secret signal and deadly riddle to solve in 'The Signal'
The narrative unfolds aboard the International Space Station, a setting that has become increasingly prevalent in sci-fi media. In contrast to recent features like 'Constellation', 'The Signal' places less emphasis on the isolation of space travel and instead delves into the mysteries that extend beyond our atmosphere.
The protagonist Paula isn't your typical astronaut; she's there on a clandestine mission funded by billionaire Mudhi (Sheeba Chaddha) to search for signs of extraterrestrial life.
Paula's mission takes a dramatic turn when she picks up a signal from deep space containing a simple greeting: 'Hello!' Mudhi, fearing humanity's violent reaction to such a discovery, convinces Paula to keep it a secret.
The decision to keep the signal a secret puts Paula in danger resulting in her mysterious disappearance and a plane crash that leaves her family grappling with accusations and grief.
The father-daughter bond in the show 'The Signal'
While some aspects of the plot, like the initial accusations against Paula, feel underdeveloped, the series shines with the character of Charlie (Yuna Bennett), Paula's daughter.
A perfect blend of her scientist mother's optimism and history teacher father's pragmatism, Charlie emerges as the story's heart. Her determination to unravel the truth left behind by her mother drives the narrative forward.
A strong ending makes up for uneven pacing
While some viewers may perceive the middle section of the miniseries as a bit slow, the true strength of The Signal unfolds in its ending. The final episode offers satisfying reveals that neatly tie up the plot's loose ends. Those expecting over-the-top CGI spectacles might be surprised by the grounded and thought-provoking resolution.
The cast of The Signal delivers powerful performances that elevate the material. Peri Baumeister embodies the stoicism and determination of astronaut Paula, leaving viewers yearning to understand the secrets she carries.
Yuna Bennett's portrayal beautifully captures the character's blend of grief, resilience, and unwavering determination to uncover the truth.
Despite the smaller cast, Florian David Fitz delivers a nuanced performance as Sven, Paula's husband, navigating through loss and suspicion. Collectively, the cast brings the characters to life, making their struggles and triumphs resonate with the audience.
Despite some pacing issues, 'The Signal' is a compelling sci-fi mystery with strong performances, particularly from Yuna Bennett as Charlie.
The series offers a unique perspective on the search for extraterrestrial life, focusing on the human cost of discovery and the power of family bonds. With its manageable four-episode format, The Signal is a quick and thought-provoking watch for sci-fi fans.