I learned from google that "[Hidden in Plain Sight](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hidden_in_Plain_Sight)" is a movie title. Since I caught up the expression without context, I tried to use it. Now, I'm not sure whether it can be used without making reference to the movie.

Can I say "This [...] was hidden in plain sight" referring to something that should have been obvious for everyone involved, but was overlooked due to way people approached the problem.

The context is a non-technical introduction to an academic thesis.