Close Encounters of the Third Kind

Close Encounters of the Third Kind

Year: 1977

Runtime: 135 min

Language: English

Director: Steven Spielberg

AdventureSci-FiDrama

Roy Neary, a power line repairman, experiences a life-changing encounter with an unidentified flying object. Haunted by recurring visions of a mysterious mountain, he embarks on a quest for answers, joined by Jillian, who has also experienced an alien abduction. They connect with French expert Claude Lacombe and an international team, all searching for a deeper understanding of the encounter. Their journey leads them to Wyoming for a pivotal moment that could redefine humanity's place in the universe.

Warning: spoilers below!

Haven’t seen Close Encounters of the Third Kind yet? This summary contains major spoilers. Bookmark the page, watch the movie, and come back for the full breakdown. If you're ready, scroll on and relive the story!

Timeline – Close Encounters of the Third Kind (1977)

Trace every key event in Close Encounters of the Third Kind (1977) with our detailed, chronological timeline. Perfect for unpacking nonlinear stories, spotting hidden connections, and understanding how each scene builds toward the film’s climax. Whether you're revisiting or decoding for the first time, this timeline gives you the full picture.

1

Discovery of Flight 19

In the Sonoran Desert, French scientist Claude Lacombe, along with his American interpreter David Laughlin and a team, stumbles upon Flight 19, a squadron of missing United States Navy bombers. The planes, which mysteriously vanished over the Bermuda Triangle on December 5, 1945, are found in pristine condition but without any crew members.

Sonoran Desert
2

Elderly Observer's Claims

Nearby, an elderly man shares a bizarre experience of seeing the sun shine at night, adding a layer of mystery to the regions around Flight 19. His account intrigues Lacombe and his team, hinting at strange occurrences linked to aerial phenomena.

3

UFO Near Miss in Indianapolis

Air traffic controllers in Indianapolis report a near collision between two commercial flights and an unidentified flying object. This event underscores the escalation of UFO sightings within the region, suggesting a significant and unexplained presence in the sky.

Indianapolis
4

Barry's Enchanted Toys

In Muncie, Indiana, three-year-old Barry Guiler experiences a magical moment when his toys appear to come to life. His mother, Jillian, is alarmed as he ventures outside, illustrating the strange power influences in the area that align with the UFO phenomena.

Muncie, Indiana
5

Roy's Close Encounter

Utility lineman Roy Neary investigates widespread power outages and encounters a UFO that grazes his face with brilliant lights. The extraordinary experience leaves him entranced, fueling his obsession with understanding these mysterious aerial visitors.

6

Discovery of the SS Cotopaxi

Researchers in the Gobi Desert uncover the SS Cotopaxi, an intact ship that mysteriously resides in the middle of a desert, void of crew members. This finding heightens the intrigue surrounding strange disappearances linked to the sea and sky.

Gobi Desert
7

Jillian's Abduction Experience

As Roy's obsession grows, Jillian begins experiencing frightening attempts by unseen entities, ultimately leading to the abduction of her son, Barry. Her desperate situation heightens the urgency for answers regarding the extraterrestrial phenomena around them.

8

Researchers Study UFO Sounds

In Dharamsala, Northern India, witnesses report UFOs emitting a unique five-tone melody. Scientists broadcast this melody into space, receiving a cryptic sequence of numbers in return, suggesting a possible communication with extraterrestrial beings.

Dharamsala, Northern India
9

Deciphering Coordinates

Using the mysterious numerical sequence received, Laughlin deciphers coordinates that lead to Devils Tower in Wyoming. This discovery prompts a militarized response from the U.S. Army, masking their preparations for an imminent alien encounter as a train derailment.

Devils Tower, Wyoming
10

Family Strain

Roy's behavior becomes increasingly erratic due to his alien fixation, prompting his wife Ronnie to leave him with their children. The escalation of UFO sightings and the ensuing chaos contribute to a rift in their family dynamic.

11

Journey to Devils Tower

After hearing about a supposed train wreck, both Roy and Jillian recognize the mountain they have been obsessing over. Ignoring public safety warnings, they set out for Devils Tower, driven by a shared vision of the extraterrestrial connection.

Devils Tower, Wyoming
12

Communication with UFOs

Upon arrival at Devils Tower, Roy and Jillian witness UFOs emerging from the night sky. Government teams utilize light and sound on an expansive electrical billboard to attempt communication with the craft, hoping to make contact with the aliens.

Devils Tower, Wyoming
13

Abductees Return

As the mothership arrives, it releases countless abductees from various periods of history, including World War II pilots and sailors from the Cotopaxi. Jillian joyfully reunites with her son Barry amidst the chaos of the event.

Devils Tower, Wyoming
14

Roy's Selection by Aliens

The extraterrestrials select Roy for interstellar travel, prompting a whirlwind of emotions as he prepares to ascend into the mothership. The encounter starkly highlights the profound effects the UFO phenomena have had on his life and relationships.

Devils Tower, Wyoming
15

Alien Communication

As Roy enters the spacecraft, an alien gestures using Curwen hand signs that correspond to the five-note melody. This poignant exchange illustrates a moment of connection between humans and extraterrestrial beings, marking the culmination of their encounters.

Mothership

Last Updated: November 16, 2024 at 18:21

Unlock the Full Story of Close Encounters of the Third Kind

Don't stop at just watching — explore Close Encounters of the Third Kind in full detail. From the complete plot summary and scene-by-scene timeline to character breakdowns, thematic analysis, and a deep dive into the ending — every page helps you truly understand what Close Encounters of the Third Kind is all about. Plus, discover what's next after the movie.

Close Encounters of the Third Kind Summary

Read a complete plot summary of Close Encounters of the Third Kind, including all key story points, character arcs, and turning points. This in-depth recap is ideal for understanding the narrative structure or reviewing what happened in the movie.

Close Encounters of the Third Kind Summary

Characters, Settings & Themes in Close Encounters of the Third Kind

Discover the characters, locations, and core themes that shape Close Encounters of the Third Kind. Get insights into symbolic elements, setting significance, and deeper narrative meaning — ideal for thematic analysis and movie breakdowns.

Characters, Settings & Themes in Close Encounters of the Third Kind

More About Close Encounters of the Third Kind

Visit What's After the Movie to explore more about Close Encounters of the Third Kind: box office results, cast and crew info, production details, post-credit scenes, and external links — all in one place for movie fans and researchers.

More About Close Encounters of the Third Kind

Similar Movies to Close Encounters of the Third Kind

Discover movies like Close Encounters of the Third Kind that share similar genres, themes, and storytelling elements. Whether you’re drawn to the atmosphere, character arcs, or plot structure, these curated recommendations will help you explore more films you’ll love.