Mastering Contact Termination for Successful Communication

The 1997 sci-fi film Contact, starring Jodie Foster and Matthew McConaughey, explores the clash of beliefs between the two main characters as they search for extraterrestrial life. Based on Carl Sagan's 1985 novel, the movie delves into the tension between science and religion, questioning the validity of instinct in an unfamiliar world. Despite not receiving as much recognition as the iconic 1979 film Alien, Contact boasts well-developed characters, an intriguing plot, and a rich source material that is worth experiencing. What are the similarities and differences between the film and Sagan's book?

What Is Contact About?

Contact stands out among the forgotten sci-fi movies of the 1990s due to the exceptional performances of Jodie Foster as Dr. Ellie Arroway and Matthew McConaughey as Palmer Joss. Ellie's unwavering determination to prove the existence of extraterrestrial life while working for the Arecibo Observatory's SETI Program leads her to enter a pod-like machine, where she appears to make contact with an alien. However, the film deliberately avoids providing clear-cut answers, leaving viewers to draw their own conclusions about whether Ellie's experience is genuine or simply a figment of her imagination. Contact's refusal to offer easy answers ultimately enhances the film's impact and resonance.

Ellie's employers prioritize profit and scientific advancement above faith, a common "humans are the real monsters" theme in science fiction. Ellie, however, remains strong and self-assured, even in the face of opposition. Matthew McConaughey's versatile acting skills shine through in his role in Frailty, where he portrays characters with hidden secrets and deep religious beliefs. His onscreen chemistry with Jodie Foster in Contact is a highlight of the film, as their opposite characters create a captivating dynamic.

How Does Contact End?

The conclusion of Contact is a thrilling and intelligent portrayal of humans encountering extraterrestrial life. While many science fiction films feature alien beings, Contact presents a unique perspective on this classic storyline. The film's characters have varying beliefs about their encounter, leaving the audience to interpret the events for themselves. This ambiguity adds a layer of realism to the narrative, as it mirrors the uncertainty that would likely accompany a real-life encounter with alien life.

In the film's final scenes, the protagonist Ellie wakes up disoriented and alarmed after losing consciousness. Despite being unable to explain what happened to her using science, she implores the Congressional Committee to believe her account of the events. Unlike other sci-fi films that depict hostile aliens, the beings in Contact are portrayed as peaceful and benign, with their presence only hinted at. Overall, the film's conclusion is a captivating and thought-provoking exploration of the possibility of extraterrestrial life.

Joss reassures Ellie of his belief in her, leaving a heartwarming impression that hints at a possible relationship. Ellie's dedication and passion for her work remains unshaken, a testament to her character. Despite being less likable, Rachel Constantine and Michael Kitz acknowledge the validity of Ellie's claims after discovering her device recorded 18 hours of static, providing an intriguing perspective on the situation.

How Is Contact Different From Carl Sagan's Novel?

In the film adaptation of Contact, the character of Palmer Joss undergoes a significant change from his portrayal in Carl Sagan's novel. While the novel depicts Joss as a preacher whose religious beliefs play a crucial role in the story's premise, the movie instead portrays him as a writer of religious texts. Despite this alteration, both versions of Joss remain integral to the central theme of the story - the conflict between science and religion.

Additionally, the movie introduces a love story between Joss and Ellie, a plot element absent from the novel. While horror movies have often incorporated strong romantic subplots, the relationship between these two characters adds a unique and endearing dimension to Contact. Despite their contrasting beliefs, Joss and Ellie engage in thought-provoking conversations and ultimately find common ground, resulting in a hopeful and satisfying conclusion to the film.