BFI: Close Encounters of the Third Kind

Watching Steven Spielberg's classic “Close Encounters of the Third Kind (Director’s Cut)” was a unique experience. Firstly, the theater itself made a lasting impression. The the theater was not like your typically movie theater. The theater was classy and upscale; while serving alcoholic drinks. The large soft red chairs made the viewers feel privileged to be watching this film. Because it was my first time seeing the film, “Close Encounters of the Third Kind,” I unfortunately could not compare it to the past versions. Through research I learned that the Director’s Cut version is arguably the best of the three. Although I am not a huge sci-fi fan, I am a fan of Steven Spielberg so I was excited to watch one of his originals. 

The film begins in Mexico with researchers interviewing an old Mexican man with half a burnt face. This is foreshadowing what will later happen to Roy. The burn on individual’s serves as a physical and mental imprint. The individual’s who are burned are greatly effected by witnessing the alien spaceship.  

I would argue that the most significant moment of the film is when Roy and Jillian first laid their eyes on the research/ communication station behind Devil’s Tower. This is the climax of the film because this is the moment Roy and Jillian have been waiting for. Although, they both still have unanswered questions, they are finally gaining some answers and realizing they are not alone in their curiosity. Roy has been mysteriously drawn towards Devil’s Tower and risks his life several times in order to get there. In the beginning of the movie Spielberg makes it clear that Roy is irresponsible and essentially a deadbeat dad. He pays little attention to his children and fails to help his son when he asks for help with his homework. His neglect is shown again at the very end of the film when Roy does not hesitate to board to mothership and abandon his wife and children. I find it bizarre that Roy becomes so obsessed with aliens that he leaves behind his family and identity just because of the strength of his curiosity. Though this is not your typical “happy ending” film, both characters achieve their goal; Roy gets to embark on a journey on the mothership, and Jillian finally gets her son back. Overall, I greatly enjoyed the film and believe it will remain a timeless Spielberg film.