Close Encounters of the Third Kind (1977): cast, story & where to watch
1977 · Film · ★ 7.4
Released in 1977, Close Encounters of the Third Kind is a drama and science fiction film directed by Steven Spielberg, running about 135 minutes. “We are not alone” — that tagline sets the tone.
What it’s about. 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.
Who’s in it. Close Encounters of the Third Kind stars Richard Dreyfuss as Roy Neary, François Truffaut as Claude Lacombe, Teri Garr as Ronnie Neary and Melinda Dillon as Jillian Guiler, among others.
How it landed. With an audience score of 7.4/10, Close Encounters of the Third Kind has been warmly received by audiences. It went on to earn $306.9M at the box office.
Where to watch. In US you can stream it on Criterion Channel and Sony Pictures Core Amazon Channel and rent or buy it from Amazon Video, Apple TV Store, Google Play Movies and YouTube. See the full, country-by-country breakdown on our where to watch Close Encounters of the Third Kind page.
If you liked it. Fans of Close Encounters of the Third Kind tend to enjoy The Shawshank Redemption, The Godfather, Schindler's List and The Godfather Part II.
Frequently asked
- Where can I watch Close Encounters of the Third Kind (1977)?
- In US, Close Encounters of the Third Kind is available to stream on Criterion Channel and Sony Pictures Core Amazon Channel, and rent or buy from Amazon Video, Apple TV Store and Google Play Movies. Availability varies by country — check our where-to-watch page for every region.
- Is Close Encounters of the Third Kind worth watching?
- Close Encounters of the Third Kind holds an audience score of 7.4 out of 10, and is a strong pick if you enjoy drama and science fiction. Most viewers rate it highly.
- Who stars in Close Encounters of the Third Kind?
- Close Encounters of the Third Kind stars Richard Dreyfuss, François Truffaut, Teri Garr, Melinda Dillon and Bob Balaban.
- When was Close Encounters of the Third Kind released?
- Close Encounters of the Third Kind was released in 1977, with a runtime of about 135 minutes.