A brilliant, awe-inspiring sci-fi drama.

Rating: Null/10 (30 November 2002)

9.5 out of 10
Jodie Foster stars as a radio astronomer who receives a signal from outer space, and thus begins a media frenzy of speculation over the signal's origin, its purpose and its intent. This brilliant sci-fi drama from director Robert Zemeckis achieves heights of awe-inspiring visuals and ideas not seen since 2001: A Space Odyssey, and in its approach to develop Foster's character, surpasses even that film. I'd like to say more about the movie, about its themes and controversial debates, but much of the joy of watching Contact is discovering how the plot unfolds and witnessing the visual surprises for yourself (suffice to say that the opening and closing segments are among the most beautiful passages ever seen on film). Sorry, Steven Spielberg, the greatest director ever you are, but protege Zemeckis showed you up on how to craft a true sci-fi drama.