Visually dazzling and thought provoking!

Based on Carl Sagan's novel and directed by Robert Zemeckis (Forrest Gump, Back to the Future); Jodie Foster, winner of 1988 and 1991 Best Actress Academy Awards for The Accused and The Silence of the Lambs and Matthew McConaughey (A Time to Kill, Amistad), headline a compelling tale of discovery.

An exciting adventure unfolds as we follow the life of astronomer Ellie Arroway (Foster), a woman of strict scientific study who believes that there has to be life on other planets. Ellie's story begins when she is young girl raised only by her father who teaches her astronomy and Ham Radio operation. As a young adult, while on a research assignment, her path crosses with the religious scholar, Palmer Joss (McConaughey), a beguiling man of faith.

Although they represent opposite ends of a spectrum, they suddenly find themselves players on the world stage after Ellie discovers evidence that someone or something is reaching out to humanity from across vast reaches of outer space.

Joss hopes to find a 'middle ground' with the stubbornly science fact minded Ellie, but it is not until Ellie takes a visually mind blowing journey that she begins to understand more of the universe she has devoted her life to studying.

The human interaction, profound questions and shocking revelations will leave each viewer with a greater sense of wonder about our world, all of the universe and our place in the big scheme of things.

James Woods, John Hurt, Tom Skerritt and Angela Bassett help fill out a world-class cast for a film event that you leave you awestruck.

"Wanna take a ride?"

Folks of all ages that have questions about how the universe was formed, or whether there is other life out there - somewhere.

It is perfect for people who like to be challenged with new ideas or puzzles, or who like to 'think' while watching an entertaining film.

That this film seems to have so many great elements: a little romance, some action and suspense, science, religion, drama and outstanding cinematography. The deep space images and visuals are dazzling and you won't be able to tear yourself away from the screen easily.

The questions raised throughout the film, religious and scientific, will stay with you.

There was absolutely nothing about this film that I disliked.

Buy more kleenex. Ellie's journey and her personal revelations towards the end of the film always leave me in tears.

Entertained, thoroughly absorbed with each little segment or transition - touched on a profound and spiritual level.

Jodie Foster did not seem to be 'acting'. She was a natural in this role.

Matthew McConaughey is dripping with charm and benevolent love and kindness.

John Hurt is wonderful as an ultra-wealthy philanthropist and 'knows a good bet when he sees one'.

Tom Skerritt is perfect in his role as an attention and power hungry liason between the scientific and political communities.

James Woods was ideal for his political and skeptical role, very quick to assume the worst at every turn and close minded.

Angela Bassett is charming and crisply professional as the President's Chief advisor.

Even former President Bill Clinton has a couple of cameo spots in the film.

It takes you outside of the conventional box on how or why the Universe is what it is.

It challenges atheist and religious convictions.

If you like puzzles, profound mysteries and questions that will make you think long after the film is finished, then you will be entranced.

~Not applicable~ this is a must see!

I watch this film at least once every two months and am never bored or unsatisfied.

"I'm O.K. to go!"

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Created Jun 11, 2010 at 10:41pm • Submit your own review...