Reviews of Close Encounters of the Third Kind

Spielberg's reputation is well earnt!

Posted : 2 weeks, 5 days ago on 21 April 2008 10:23 (A review of Close Encounters of the Third Kind)

"Have you recently had a close encounter?"

Close Encounters of the Third Kind is a miraculous piece of science fiction cinema, and is unquestionably one of Spielberg's many groundbreaking masterpieces created during his youth.

The film also marks Spielberg's first invasion film, with two other equally impressive invasion films to follow years later. Before Close Encounters, Spielberg had already made a name for himself thanks to his skilful effort in making Jaws two years previously.

Undisputedly among the best science fiction movies of all time, Close Encounters of the Third Kind follows a young father named Roy Neary (Dreyfuss) who lives a general suburban lifestyle with a family and a mortgage. On one night Roy finds himself out driving in the middle of no-where. While in a state of disorientation, Roy experiences a 'close encounter' with a UFO. He strongly believes in what he saw, and what follows is a personal struggle in addition to a descent into madness.

Like most of Spielberg's movies there are lots of absorbing recurring themes; principally, the theme of a neglectful father. Because of Roy's obsession with the strange occurrences with aliens he neglects his family and begins going insane. This is played to perfection by Richard Dreyfuss. The man can act extremely well; he portrays a very likable man despite the characters flaws created by the screenwriter.

The special effects still look absolutely staggering, with alien spacecrafts that look out of this world! The design is flawless and revolutionary, marking one of the first invasion films not to include the trademark 1950's style flying saucers. The use of lights was especially stunning, and the cinematography by Vilmos Zsigmond is outstanding.

The impressive visuals are accompanied by John Williams' evocative score. The use of choirs during key scenes creates such an exceptional atmosphere and is perfect for use during scenes that showcase such marvellous special effects.

Steven Spielberg, still a young man, put everything he could into this movie. His incredible vision is realised on screen in an inspirational way. The middle section of the movie is tight, but requires patience on the part of the viewers. Because of the fascinating style it's impossible to feel bored.

Of course this invasion film is not concerned with action or the end of the world, but the beautiful bond that mankind can share with creatures from another world. Many criticise the conclusion for the movie, calling it unsatisfying. The ending is perfect and symbolic. I could not think of a better way to finish the already perfect experience.

Close Encounters is a remarkable science fiction film that cannot be missed. Both critics and audiences adored this movie when it was first released, and its original impact still remains. Watch it without hesitation.

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WOW, Well Worth the Reputation

Posted : 1 year ago on 14 April 2007 07:03 (A review of Close Encounters of the Third Kind)

This movie has a big reputation for being a classic Scifi movie, and it definatially is. UFOs flying through the skies, people with shared visions, and off course the government coverup. This does go down in the books for a classic, visually stunning, and powerful movie. Spielberg knows how to make a great movie, and I would suggest that if you haven't, see it.

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Emotional journey

Posted : 1 year, 3 months ago on 27 January 2007 06:09 (A review of Close Encounters of the Third Kind)

In my opinion, “Close Encounters of the Third Kind” is possibly Steven’s finest work. I first saw the film in 2006, and it practically changed the way I watched films. It’s not “Star Wars,” yet it’s not “E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial” either. It has neither action packed thrills nor touchy family moments. Instead, it’s best described as a thinking, emotional journey. After thirty years the story is still timeless: what would happen if aliens made contact with the everyman?

Glowing compliments aside, the film is technically sound: special effects that still hold up to today’s standards, stunning performances by Dreyfuss, Dillon and Garr (among others), and breathtaking music.

Without divulging too much information, the story follows the actions of everyday people involved mysterious alien encounters, particularly a lineman, Roy Neary, a single mother, Jillian Guiler, and a French scientist, Claude Lacombe. It includes clever twists and even a little humour. The film closes triumphantly with a smashing finish.

Truly, I am thankful that Steven made the film when he did. In his own words, had he made it now, the film would be drastically different. But it is just the way the film is that makes it so magical.

To be simply put, CE3K is an iconic emotional and fulfilling science fiction film and I absolutely adore it.

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