One of my favorite movies of all time.....

Rating: 10/10 (24 February 2011)

I remember seeing this movie in the mid-90s in the theater. It moved me in ways that few movies have, and in ways that are very difficult to put into words... I think it is the best science fiction movie I have ever seen, with "Blade Runner" a close second.
This film so intelligently illuminates so many facets of the human condition on this planet. In one sense anyone watching this movie could become very cynical about the hypocrisy, corruption, self indulgent and self destructive nature of humanity. But while conveying this, the film also highlights what is great and special about the human race, and in subtle ways gives the viewer a deep seated sense of hope for the future. It also reminds us, that in the scope of the vastness of the universe, in the "big picture" our petty struggles here on planet earth really matter very little at all.
The film also contains one of the most intelligent and unbiased looks at subjects of religious faith and spirituality, with far more depth and insight than I can recall experiencing in any other movie.
Beyond all this, "Contact" is also a grand tale of adventure, of the first journey into a completely unknown frontier.
The acting is largely flawless, and the special effects were certainly adequate not to detract in any way from the magic of the film, even though by 2011 standards they might look a bit dated.
I know not all are as moved by this film as I was. Soon after it came out, I was raving about it to my brother. His response was "meh, it was OK I guess. I thought it was pretty cool when the machine blew up...." I am probably not doing a very good job of expressing why I so loved this film.
All I can say is that if you have not seen it, DO SO!