Review of Close Encounters of the Third Kind (1977) by Jonathan B — 25 Feb 2013
Growing up, Close Encounters was always the one classic Spielberg film I never could fully get into. I found it boring, anticlimactic and the ending too optimistic for my tastes. Now that I'm older, though, it has become something I appreciate a great deal more.
The way Spielberg slowly escalates the tension is quite skillful, and there's some interesting themes brought up. Plus, one can't forget the iconic scenes scattered throughout, including perhaps the funniest one Spielberg has done where Dreyfuss builds Devil's Tower in the middle of his kitchen.
While some of my youthful criticisms remain valid, and I still think Close Encounters pales in comparison with Spielberg's other two big alien works, E.T. and War of the Worlds, I have finally come around to recognize its brilliance and influence.
Coming off of the blockbuster known as Jaws, Spielberg could have presumably done anything. Instead, he made a film about character, story and childlike wonderment, showing the world that he was here to stay.
This review of Close Encounters of the Third Kind (1977) was written by Jonathan B on 25 Feb 2013.
Close Encounters of the Third Kind has generally received very positive reviews.
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