← Back to explore

Close Encounters of the Third Kind

1977 · Movie · PG · 137 min · ★ 7.4 · 91% critics

Science FictionDrama

After a startling UFO encounter, an everyday worker becomes consumed by a vivid, recurring image he can’t explain. As sightings spread and authorities move in, his obsession pulls him toward a remote wilderness site where a mysterious event promises answers—and a sense of awe that challenges what people think they know.

Also known as The Special Edition: Close Encounters of the Third Kind · The Close Encounter of the Third Kind · CE3K · Watch the Skies

Where to watch

Streaming on Sony Pictures Core.

2 hours to watch.

Streaming availability and prices may be inaccurate or change — verify with the provider before subscribing.

unSUB's subscription recommendations are informational only, not financial advice.

More value for your money

Similar titles, ranked by watch-hours per subscription dollar.

Details
Years
1977
Release date
1977-12-14
Language
English
Rated
PG
Runtime
137 min
Critic score
91/100
TMDB rating
7.4/10 (4,664 votes)
Box office
$306,889,114
Budget
$20,000,000
About

You’ll likely enjoy this if you want a classic, wonder-first UFO story that builds toward a big, atmospheric payoff; Not for you if you need fast pacing or grounded realism like The Day the Earth Stood Still.

Pros: awe-filled mystery; hopeful alien contact; memorable light-and-music moments | Cons: slow middle stretch; odd character behavior; uneven pacing

Themes

  • wyoming, usa
  • indiana, usa
  • flying saucer
  • extraterrestrial technology
  • obsession
  • evacuation
  • blackout
  • secret base
  • alien life-form
  • alien
  • ufo
  • vision
  • +25 more

Awards & recognition

  • Academy AwardBest Cinematography · 1978
  • National Board of Review: Top Ten Films
  • Saturn AwardBest Director
  • Academy AwardBest Sound · 1978 · nominated
  • Academy AwardBest Cinematography · 1978 · nominated
Show all 11 awards →
  • Academy AwardBest Film Editing · 1978 · nominated
  • Academy AwardBest Original Score · 1978 · nominated
  • Academy AwardBest Director · 1978 · nominated
  • Academy AwardBest Visual Effects · 1978 · nominated
  • Academy AwardBest Production Design · 1978 · nominated
  • Academy AwardBest Supporting Actress · 1978 · nominated

Cast & crew

Directed by Steven Spielberg