SCI FI PI

Released: Nov 28

So why, after not one, not two, but three previously released versions, should we possibly bother to buy another Close Encounters of the Third Kind?

Firstly, the picture quality. This is the first Spielberg movie released for the Blu-ray. If you have a Blu-ray player (or a PS3) and a new HD TV, then you will see a noticeable jump in the fine details and the special effects. Even your non-geek ‘who cares?’ potato couch will really sit up and take notice. To the sound as well: John Williams’ score has never been treated so well.

Secondly, it’s three movies in one. Aliens and humans having a good old hoe down is the central theme. If you don’t know the story by now, well, you’re in for a real treat, and we wouldn’t want to spoil it for you here. The reason for the ‘ultimate’ edition (Spielberg promises, yes, this is it) is straightforward when you know the story of the film. The first version (1977) was rushed at completion. The success of the film gave Spielberg the opportunity to add scenes to the original version for his Director’s Cut (1980), but he had to compromise by adding scenes at the studio’s behest, scenes they thought the audience wanted to see – namely when Roy entered the spaceship. In 1998 Spielberg released his Collector’s Edition, chopping that out, fiddling with CG and building the strength of the Neary family story by putting in previously excised material.

Now you can watch the final, final, final version as one seamless film, or watch variants and variations unfold before your eyes with cues and discussions on each and every cut. If you’re a film geek, a budding editor or a Close Encounters aficionado, this is digital duck’s nuts.

Thirdly, new extras. Spielberg has added a new interview that adds to previously released extras, and the interactive cuts are a treat.

Finally, it’s historic. Yes it is. Steven Spielberg and his success literally changed the way movies are made, marketed and watched. His approach to aliens and the summer blockbuster has coloured almost all Hollywood films since made. The key ideas, images and sounds of Close Encounters are arguably more a part of popular culture than Shakespeare. If you don’t have Close Encounters yet, then you don’t have a proper home entertainment collection.

Extras:

Blu-ray Disc Bonus Features Include:
- All new (2007) interview with Steven Spielberg
- Photo gallery containing 1300 images
- 100 minute “Making Of Close Encounters of the Third Kind” special
- Original movie soundtrack
- Version schematic – all 3 versions on one disc
- Storyboard to scene comparables

DVD Bonus Features Include:
- All new interview with Steven Spielberg
- 100 minute “Making Of Close Encounters of the Third Kind” special (split into 3 over 3 discs)
- Printed version schematic
- Production scrapbook inc new Spielberg archive material