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What’s So Great About Close Encounters of the Third Kind

40 years after its release, Close Encounters of the Third Kind remains one of Steven Spielberg’s most personal and acclaimed films. Close Encounters may have been overshadowed by two other big sci-fi releases of its day, — 1977’s Star Wars and 1979’s Alien — but it should be remembered for using its story and visual effects to renew a sense of awe and wonder on Earth.

One of the biggest things you’ll notice — and what most commentators emphasize — is that Close Encounters doesn’t rush. It takes time to develop its characters and build tension. This slow burn has become a defining trait of the movie and a frequent talking point in reaction videos.