Thursday, March 29, 2007

Contact the Movie

Exploring the meaning of human existence through contact with extraterrestrial life is the main theme of this movie. Based on the novel of the same name by Carl Sagan, is the story of a radio astronomer who after many years of research, discovers an intelligent signal broadcast from outer space. She and her fellow scientists are able to decipher the message which consists of detailed instructions for building a machine to travel to other planetary systems.

One of the other themes in Contact is that of science being perceived by some as being in conflict with those who believe in God. Throughout much of the film, both are seen as existing outside of the other's domain. There is initially a very clear stipulation that scientists can try to understand the universe without needing to introduce God into any explanations. Dr. Arroway, the heroine of the tale, when asked if she believes in God replies that there is no evidence for or against the existence of God. Joss, however, is shown as a moderate religious man. In one of their conversations, Joss reminds Dr. Arroway that people can have experiences that make them hold beliefs even if they do not have objectively verifiable evidence to support such beliefs.