In 'Close Encounters of the Kind', Spielberg takes a stab at the tried and true movie formula of Aliens visiting planet earth. In his interpretation, he chronicles the weeks leading up to a "Close Encounter with something very unusual" and how this affects the lives of several people. The main focus is on Roy Neary (Richard Dreyfus), a line worker who creates tension within his family as he becomes obsessed with the idea of extra terrestrial life. Gillian's (Melind Dillon) son is abducted by the alien creatures. Consequently she becomes determined to decipher the conspiracy so as to find out his whereabouts. The third story concerns a group of scientists and military commanders who are studying the phenomenon.
'Close Encounters of the Third Kind' (Close Encounters for short) is in my opinion one of the best, if not the best, piece of science fiction in cinematic history. No other film sets your imagination whirling like this film will. It is Spielberg in top form; I personally believe this to be his best film. Close Encounters blends mystery, imagination, drama and a stunning combination of audio and visuals to create a film that is completely engrossing. It is simply impossible to tear your eyes away from the screen such is the absolute bliss this film evokes.
The dramatic element of Close Encounters is perfect. Spielberg has an unfortunate reputation amongst some critics as being simplistic and lacking the skill to make a film genuinely dramatic. Close Encounters completely contradicts this statement. The growing attraction between Gillian and Roy is superb as Spielberg takes the time to establish their ability to empathize with each other's experience. So many filmmakers simply mash a romance together without developing WHY they are attracted to each other. Also of note is the relationship between Roy and his family. The chemistry and dynamics in the family scenes are wholly realistic. I never thought I'd see such delicate film making in a science-fiction adventure. In addition, the scientists also prove dynamic. Lacombe (Francois Truffaut) and the rest of the team show subtle variations in their characters as their life's work comes towards a spectacular climax.
The dramatic subtlety of this film is only outshone by the application of sound and visuals. Emphasis on 'application' not meager eye candy. Close Encounters is one of the most stunning films of all time because of it's cinematography, sound and music. The visuals evoke the atmosphere and mystery of the film perfectly. Of note if the way in which the UFOs are photographed (no spoilers, you'll have to watch it and see!). John Williams plays John Williams to perfection. I need not describe the incredible score he has produced other than to say I have rarely seen a score be so conducive to the film it is written for. The film received a special achievement Oscar for it's sound. The "tonal vocabulary" is an original idea that is brilliantly executed.
Last but certainly not the least is Spielberg's direction and screenplay. Of all his adventure flicks, no other is paced as expertly as Close Encounters. At every turn you find yourself begging to know more. The film is totally immersed in mystery, intrigue and imagination. The combination of suspense and character development elevates this film beyond other special effects laden romps. Spielberg's masterwork.
Close Encounters brings so much to the science fiction genre. It combines compelling drama, imagination, atmospheric sound and brilliant aesthetics to a plot that has been done a million times. Close Encounters deserves a lasting place in film history. A perfectly executed movie.
'Close Encounters of the Third Kind' (Close Encounters for short) is in my opinion one of the best, if not the best, piece of science fiction in cinematic history. No other film sets your imagination whirling like this film will. It is Spielberg in top form; I personally believe this to be his best film. Close Encounters blends mystery, imagination, drama and a stunning combination of audio and visuals to create a film that is completely engrossing. It is simply impossible to tear your eyes away from the screen such is the absolute bliss this film evokes.
The dramatic element of Close Encounters is perfect. Spielberg has an unfortunate reputation amongst some critics as being simplistic and lacking the skill to make a film genuinely dramatic. Close Encounters completely contradicts this statement. The growing attraction between Gillian and Roy is superb as Spielberg takes the time to establish their ability to empathize with each other's experience. So many filmmakers simply mash a romance together without developing WHY they are attracted to each other. Also of note is the relationship between Roy and his family. The chemistry and dynamics in the family scenes are wholly realistic. I never thought I'd see such delicate film making in a science-fiction adventure. In addition, the scientists also prove dynamic. Lacombe (Francois Truffaut) and the rest of the team show subtle variations in their characters as their life's work comes towards a spectacular climax.
The dramatic subtlety of this film is only outshone by the application of sound and visuals. Emphasis on 'application' not meager eye candy. Close Encounters is one of the most stunning films of all time because of it's cinematography, sound and music. The visuals evoke the atmosphere and mystery of the film perfectly. Of note if the way in which the UFOs are photographed (no spoilers, you'll have to watch it and see!). John Williams plays John Williams to perfection. I need not describe the incredible score he has produced other than to say I have rarely seen a score be so conducive to the film it is written for. The film received a special achievement Oscar for it's sound. The "tonal vocabulary" is an original idea that is brilliantly executed.
Last but certainly not the least is Spielberg's direction and screenplay. Of all his adventure flicks, no other is paced as expertly as Close Encounters. At every turn you find yourself begging to know more. The film is totally immersed in mystery, intrigue and imagination. The combination of suspense and character development elevates this film beyond other special effects laden romps. Spielberg's masterwork.
Close Encounters brings so much to the science fiction genre. It combines compelling drama, imagination, atmospheric sound and brilliant aesthetics to a plot that has been done a million times. Close Encounters deserves a lasting place in film history. A perfectly executed movie.