Contact Movie Review 1997

Thought-provoking (if overlong) drama rather than sci-fi spectacular (though it has its fair share of special effects). Radio astronomer Dr. Ellie Arroway (Foster) discovers signals being transmitted from the distant star Vega. When they're deciphered, the signals turn out to be blueprints for a craft that will take its occupant into space and a first meeting with aliens. Ellie fights to become that first spokesperson for Earth's inhabitants. More philosophical than the usual sci-fi alien encounter epic, but the excellent cast, led by Foster, pulls it off nicely. Based on the novel by Carl Sagan.

Distribution

Warner Home Video, Inc., 5775 Linder Canyon Rd., Westlake Village, CA 91362, URL: http://whv.warnerbros.com, Remarks: Does not handle retail queries from consumers; contact your local video distributor.

Available on VHS, DVD
Running time 150 minutes.

Cast and Crew

Genres

Sci Fi, Space Operas, Science & Scientists, Religion, Big Ideas, Recycled Footage/Redubbed Dialogue, Top Grossing Films of 1997

Screenplay

Michael Goldenberg

Cast

Jodie Foster, Matthew McConaughey, James Woods, Tom Skerritt, Angela Bassett, John Hurt, David Morse, Rob Lowe, Jake Busey, William Fichtner, Geoffrey Blake, Jena Malone

Cinematography

Don Burgess

Director

Robert Zemeckis

Music

Alan Silvestri

Producer

Steve Starkey, Robert Zemeckis, Lynda Obst, Joan Bradshaw, South Side Amusement Company, Warner Bros.