The age-old science vs. faith debate is often the focal point of classic genre films. In Robert Zemeckis’ Contact(1997), Dr. Ellie Arroway (Jodie Foster) embarks on a one-woman mission after scientists receive conclusive proof of extraterrestrial life.
But once first contact is established, Arroway experiences something so unbelievable it cannot be proven in front of a scientific council. Religious fanatics interpret her encounter as proof of divine existence, while the scientific community views it with harsh skepticism. While Arroway isn’t able to resolve this ideological conflict, she puts her faith in this unscientific encounter after it fundamentally alters her perspective on life.