Dickens & Rumi
Cover of Close Encounters of the Third Kind

film

Close Encounters of the Third Kind

1977

After an encounter with UFOs, an electricity linesman feels undeniably drawn to an isolated area in the wilderness where something spectacular is about to happen.

Ages 10+Source checked

Why this age? The film includes frightening UFO encounters, a child’s abduction, family separation, peril, and intense suspense. Its slower pace and mature themes may also challenge younger viewers, while gore and sexual content are minimal. This is guidance, not a safety guarantee; reading level and family context may differ.

Quick view

At a glance

Recommended age10+

Strongest cautions

  • Frightening scenes3/5
  • Religious themes2/5
  • Violence2/5

Strongest positives

  • Creativity & curiosity4/5
  • Courage & resilience3/5
  • Positive messages3/5

What’s in it?

Products & advertising1/5
Why this rating?

Features common household items and vehicles relevant to the setting, but no overt product placement or tie-in merchandise.

Death of a character1/5
Why this rating?

While characters are missing and believed to be dead, no on-screen deaths are shown.

Strong language1/5
Why this rating?

Contains only very mild, infrequent language consistent with a PG rating.

Religious themes2/5
Why this rating?

The film uses religious metaphors, comparing the extraterrestrial event to biblical experiences (e.g., Moses at Mount Sinai).

Romance1/5
Why this rating?

Minor references to marital strain as the protagonist becomes obsessed, but no central romance.

Frightening scenes3/5
Why this rating?

A child is abducted during a frightening home invasion, with ominous UFO activity and nighttime suspense. The film is tense and disturbing but ultimately wonder-focused rather than horror-driven.

Alcohol or drugs1/5
Why this rating?

Depicts adults drinking in domestic/social settings, not glamorized.

Violence2/5
Why this rating?

Includes minor physical struggles and intense, but brief, threatening behavior by unseen extraterrestrial forces.

What’s good in it?

Courage & resilience3/5
Why this rating?

Roy and Jillian confront fear, official obstruction, and danger to seek answers and protect or reunite with family members.

Creativity & curiosity4/5
Why this rating?

Highly imaginative depiction of first contact, emphasizing wonder and unique artistic vision.

Diverse representation2/5
Why this rating?

Includes an international cast of scientists and highlights global perspectives on the phenomena.

Educational value2/5
Why this rating?

It engages with astronomy, geography, scientific investigation, and musical communication, but these ideas support the story rather than serve a primarily instructional purpose.

Kindness & empathy2/5
Why this rating?

Emphasizes empathy and the importance of cross-cultural (or cross-species) connection.

Positive messages3/5
Why this rating?

The story emphasizes curiosity, communication, scientific cooperation, openness to the unknown, and the possibility of peaceful contact.

Good role models2/5
Why this rating?

Scientists cooperate thoughtfully, while Roy’s obsession damages his family and judgment; the film presents both admirable curiosity and troubling consequences.

Family discussion

Talk about it

Conversation starters based on this title’s published content notes.

  1. What was the most imaginative idea in the story, and what would you add to it?
  2. Which moment felt most tense or frightening? What helped the characters handle fear?
  3. Which choice in Close Encounters of the Third Kind would you have made differently, and why?
  4. Who changed the most in Close Encounters of the Third Kind, and what caused that change?
Discuss this title with other parents

Community reactions

What families noticed

Add your perspective

Sign in from the homepage to rate this title.

Where to watch or buy

Buy or rent on AmazonFind on JustWatch

As an Amazon Associate, Dickens & Rumi may earn from qualifying purchases, at no extra cost to you.

These content notes are a starting point, not a guarantee. Review the evidence and use your own judgment before choosing a title.

Report an incorrect rating