Explore Spielberg’s Four Alien Films Ahead of Disclosure Day
Legendary filmmaker Steven Spielberg is known for his exceptional contributions to the sci-fi genre, particularly his alien-themed films. With his upcoming movie, Disclosure Day, set for release in 2026, it’s the perfect moment to reflect on his notable works centered around extraterrestrial life.
Close Encounters of the Third Kind
One of Spielberg’s earliest ventures into alien cinema was Close Encounters of the Third Kind, released in 1977. This film followed Roy Neary, played by Richard Dreyfuss, who encounters a UFO while investigating a power outage. Following the success of Jaws, Spielberg’s second major feature film was met with acclaim and became a cultural touchstone.
Close Encounters garnered significant box office success, securing the third position behind Smokey and the Bandit and Star Wars. While it presents a contrasting narrative to Star Wars, both films tapped into the burgeoning sci-fi enthusiasm of the late 1970s. Remarkably, the film remains relevant nearly 50 years after its release.
Interestingly, Dreyfuss was not Spielberg’s initial choice for the role of Roy. Iconic actors like Steve McQueen, Jack Nicholson, and Al Pacino declined the role before Dreyfuss successfully lobbied for it.
E.T.: The Extra-Terrestrial
Five years later, in 1982, Spielberg released E.T.: The Extra-Terrestrial, which became a cultural phenomenon. The film achieved unprecedented commercial success, dominating the box office and holding the title of the highest-grossing film for 11 years before Jurassic Park took its place in 1993.
E.T. was synonymous with the 1980s, as it consistently ranked among the top films until October 1982. The success was even reflected in product partnerships, notably boosting sales for Hershey’s Reese’s Pieces candies.
Noteworthy is the evolution of E.T.’s concept. Originally envisioned as a horror film called Night Skies, ideas from this unmade project contributed to E.T., Poltergeist, and Gremlins, showcasing Spielberg’s creative depth during a pivotal time for the director.
War of the Worlds
In 2005, Spielberg revisited the alien genre with War of the Worlds, starring Tom Cruise. This modern adaptation of H.G. Wells’ classic novel captured the imagination of audiences, attaining over $600 million at the box office. While some might prefer the 1953 version, Spielberg’s rendition is often praised for its timeless quality.
Although it may not carry the same cultural weight as E.T., the film resonated well with viewers and outperformed more recent adaptations like the poorly received Amazon version.
Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull
Another notable, though controversial, entry in Spielberg’s filmography is Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull, released in 2008. While this film featured aliens, their appearance was limited, prompting mixed reactions from fans. Considered the weakest entry in the Indiana Jones franchise, its alien components felt somewhat forced.
Despite personal reservations about the film, its inclusion is warranted due to the extraterrestrial element. Fans eagerly await Disclosure Day, hopeful that it will eclipse the legacy of Crystal Skull.
Looking Forward to Disclosure Day
As Spielberg prepares for the release of Disclosure Day, anticipation builds. Given his track record with alien films, audiences have high expectations for this new endeavor. Spielberg’s earlier successes serve as a benchmark, setting the stage for what could be another iconic entry in his illustrious career.
