Cast
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Steven Spielberg
as Self
John Williams
as Self
Richard Dreyfuss
as Self
Teri Garr
as Self
Melinda Dillon
as Self
Bob Balaban
as Self
Joe Alves
as Self
Cary Guffey
as Self
Gregory Jein
as Self
Michael Kahn
as Self
Ralph McQuarrie
as Self
Dennis Muren
as Self
Robert Swarthe
as Self
Vilmos Zsigmond
as Self
Douglas Trumbull
as Self
Crew
Director
- Laurent Bouzereau
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
The Making of 'Close Encounters of the Third Kind' represents a fascinating example of Documentary cinema, offering viewers a unique perspective on the human experience and societal structures. The film's approach to its themes demonstrates a creative vision that distinguishes it within its genre.
Director Laurent Bouzereau brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to pacing and visual storytelling creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 2001, the film exists within a cultural context that continues to evolve with our understanding of its themes. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of The Making of 'Close Encounters of the Third Kind' took approximately 10 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 101 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 146 minutes long.
- The film contains approximately 1149 individual shots.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 7 months to complete.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
Historical Context
- In 2001, when this film is released:
- Social media platforms were beginning to transform communication.
- The September 11 attacks changed global security and politics.
- Digital filmmaking technologies were transforming production processes and creating new opportunities.
How This Film Stands Out
While The Making of 'Close Encounters of the Third Kind' shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike 30 Days in Hell: The Making of 'The Devil's Rejects', which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, The Making of 'Close Encounters of the Third Kind' subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like The Exotic Locations of 'Goldfinger' and Never Before, Never Again: Behind the Scenes of Asssscat explore similar territory, The Making of 'Close Encounters of the Third Kind' stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its thoughtful balance of entertainment value and thematic depth, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: May 8, 2001
- Runtime: 1h 41m
