A great film inspired by a great book. I love how both the original and the movie stand on their own without the latter being a "translation for dummies" of the former. The acting, directing and music were simply sublime.
It starts out like a scientific thriller, but Zemeckis effortlessly blends in a message of faith into it as you go along. Jodie Foster gives a stellar performance-- her character is one of many dimensions and emotions but Foster has it down to a T. Good for re watching and discussions. This is one unforgettable work of art.
If you've ever looked at the night sky and been struck by the sheer grandeur of the place we live in, you will most likely appreciate one aspect or another of this film.

This is a very interesting film.I like it a lot for several reasons.Jodie Foster is a great actress and that canot be denied.In this film her skills are not realy challenged.I like horse racing.Sometimes a horse is made favourite for a race,just because it has a very good jockey aboard.This does not make the horse better,it just gets a better ride.Sometimes an actor/actress has the same effect.This film is watchable ,but it does lack any great punch.The script carries this film for the better part,asking interest ing questions and posing some that are not actualy asked, but stir in your mind,like a troubling memory does.It kind of makes you feel uncomfortable and curious as to the reason for the discomfort.
When first contact is made,and it is a when...the people of this planet will probably feel a deep shame for how our world has developed into what it is today.We disregard the pain of so many,for the selfish aspirations of so few.This is wrong and this film highlites this in a subtle way.The political machinations described in this film,are to me,a very good illustration of how we would deal with a first contact event.The science in the film is enough for the sci /fi buff to be pleased,but beware,,,it falters and then fails badly.Watch...if you miss the end....you missed nothing of great importance.however,you will still leave with those lingering questions...we are not alone and as the human race moves forward, we thread on so many who could do with a helping hand.Any one out there watching that chooses to treat us with the same regard....Trouble. Big time....trouble.