Very engaging science fiction film

Rating: 9/10 (18 June 2017)

Contact (1997) is a Robert Zemeckis film based on the 1985 novel by Carl Sagan. I have not read the novel with which this movie is based off of, but I don't think I need to in order to see the greatness of this movie. It tells the story of Dr. Eleanor Arroway, a radio astronomer who hears a signal over her radio that she thinks might be aliens trying to contact them, hence the title. Once the signal is researched further, of course, the United States government and other international governments get involved and want to know what it means. The plot might sound like just another simple cookie cutter alien film, but I found Contact to be much more. The script is written in a way that allows for plenty of character development and depth. This is in no way a simple film, it is complex and will keep your attention the whole way through. The filmmakers make you care deeply about Jodie Foster's character. I love how they showed her as a child and they displayed her close relationship with her father. This plays a key role later on in the movie. The acting by every actor in the film is very good too. Jodie Foster gives a very powerful and gripping performance that touches the audience. Matthew is also good here, this is the first major film he ever did. The visual are overall impressive as the sound was good enough to earn an academy award nomination. The film really is very well made, meaningful and entertaining and I recommend it. 9/10.