Sunday, 31 July 2011

'Close Encounters Of The Third Kind', GFT, 29/7/11

I do adore these late night screenings at the GFT!
Sadly, this one was only half full which is a bit of a shame since this film is classic sci-fi!


The print was the original 1977 version which has never been released on video or DVD (the original theatrical release that has been released has scenes that were actually trimmed by Spielberg) and it's a film I've wanted to see on the big screen for some time.
It all holds up well, even the special effects which, although not as refined as today's standards, lend to the charm of the film. The detail seen in the model work is truly impressive when seen on such a large scale.


Again, what is really evident is how well Spielberg handles the human drama and delicately balances the human story with that of the special effects.
John Williams' music comes across better than before and the whole filmic experience is one to treasure.
I urge anyone who has the chance to go see a classic film, whatever the genre, on the big screen to do so - it is only when you've experienced them in their natural environment (sure, DVD is fine, but come on!) can you truly recapture the wonder and awe that cinema, at its best, can engender.

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