A masterful blend of science fiction and drama, 'Close Encounters of the Third Kind' explores humanity's fascination with the unknown and the personal sacrifices made in pursuit of understanding. Spielberg's iconic storytelling and visual artistry create a captivating experience that resonates with audiences.
Close Encounters of the Third Kind
Where to watch: Buy
Movie · Science Fiction · Drama
Wed · 2h 17m
Director: Steven Spielberg
Starring: Richard Dreyfuss, François Truffaut, Teri Garr
Overview
After an encounter with UFOs, an electricity linesman feels undeniably drawn to an isolated area in the wilderness where something spectacular is about to happen.
Director
Steven Spielberg
Cast
Richard Dreyfuss, François Truffaut, Teri Garr
Curator Review
Verdict
A masterful blend of science fiction and drama, 'Close Encounters of the Third Kind' explores humanity's fascination with the unknown and the personal sacrifices made in pursuit of understanding. Spielberg's iconic storytelling and visual artistry create a captivating experience that resonates with audiences.
Best for
Science fiction enthusiasts
Fans of classic cinema
Those interested in themes of family and exploration
Skip if
Prefer fast-paced action films
Dislike slower, contemplative narratives
Not interested in themes of alien encounters
Overview
Steven Spielberg's 'Close Encounters of the Third Kind' is a landmark film that delves into the human experience through the lens of extraterrestrial encounters. The film's protagonist, Roy Neary, played by Richard Dreyfuss, is drawn into a world of wonder and mystery after a series of inexplicable events. Spielberg masterfully balances the awe of discovery with the personal turmoil of Neary's family life, creating a poignant narrative that resonates on multiple levels.
Worth noting
The film's visual and auditory elements are equally striking, with John Williams' iconic score enhancing the emotional weight of the story. The use of light and sound to communicate with the unknown is a brilliant metaphor for the human desire to connect and understand. 'Close Encounters' remains a timeless exploration of the intersection between the ordinary and the extraordinary, inviting viewers to ponder the possibilities that lie beyond our world.
Top Letterboxd reviews
Lucy (3.5★) · 4527 likes
DO ᵈᵒ ᴅᴏ dₒ do
Adam Kempenaar (4.5★) · 4064 likes
In the doc that precedes the 40th anniversary release, director Denis Villeneuve suggests the movie is a personal one for Spielberg beyond his obvious fascination with the material. He says the movie is about movie-making too, which struck me as a little trite – and cliche – in the moment. I mean, how many directors and their films has this been/could it be said about? And yet, watching this time, I was struck by Roy Neary's journey from blue-collar electric… more
laird (5★) · 3829 likes
A movie about the importance of leaving your wife and kids in order to pursue your passion (to fly in a UFO).
James (Schaffrillas) (4★) · 3037 likes
Oh so THAT'S where that scene in Monsters vs Aliens came from
karen h. (4.5★) · 2003 likes
Our debt as a society to Steven Spielberg is completely unpayable.
2016 · Drama, Science Fiction, Mystery · 1h 56m · PG-13 · Where to watch: Paramount Plus Premium, Paramount Plus Essential, Peacock, Peacock Premium Plus
An intelligent take on alien contact that focuses on communication and understanding.
2014 · Adventure, Drama, Science Fiction · 2h 49m · PG-13 · Where to watch: Amazon Prime Video, Paramount Plus Premium, Paramount Plus Essential, Amazon Prime Video with Ads
A grand exploration of love, sacrifice, and the unknown in the vastness of space.