the happening

Rating: Null/10 (30 October 2003)

Possible Spoilers...
This new variation of the extra-terrestrial life (which isn't very far from "Close encounters of the third kind" (1977) gives a naive but really pleasant and charming movie. It is smartly directed by Robert Zemeckis who knows how to sustain the spectator's interest thanks to a story that becomes thrilling and fascinating in its design and it contains several odd details or sequences. Even if the movie contains a few faults (characteristic of Hollywood blockbusters) like for instance the love affair between Foster and Matthew McConaughey, its main advantage is definitely the talented Jodie Foster.
Another fault which is more serious is about the conclusion of the movie. Indeed, it turns out to be a little disappointing because too childish.
This said, you are entitled to prefer "Contact" to the conceited "Independence Day" (1996) or the whacky "Mars Attacks" (1996).