Contact

Contact

Movie • 1997

Take a journey to the heart of the universe.

A radio astronomer receives the first extraterrestrial radio signal ever picked up on Earth. As the world powers scramble to decipher the message and decide upon a course of action, she must make some difficult decisions between her beliefs, the truth, and reality.

Drama
Science Fiction
Mystery
150 minutes
Released

Bara says...

Ages 12+, but every child is different

The film explores complex philosophical, scientific, and religious themes that require a level of maturity to appreciate. Occasional intense moments and scenes of political tension are better suited for pre-teens and older viewers.

Content Safety Breakdown

Detailed breakdown of potentially concerning content

Sex & Nudity

1/5

The film features mild romantic tension and a relationship subplot that results in a brief, non-explicit scene implying intimacy between the main characters. There is no nudity or sexual content throughout the rest of the movie.

Violence & Gore

2/5

There is a sequence involving a terrorist bombing that causes destruction and off-screen casualties. Aside from this tense event, the film does not feature graphic violence or gore.

Profanity

2/5

There is occasional mild language, including uses of "d*mn" and "h*ll" used in frustrated or conversational contexts, as well as a few instances of "s*cks" and one or two uses of "sh*t" in tense moments.

Alcohol, Drugs & Smoking

1/5

There are brief, infrequent scenes showing adults having drinks in social or professional settings. Substance use is not a focus of the plot and is depicted in a very limited, realistic manner.

Frightening Scenes

3/5

The film contains high levels of psychological tension, complex philosophical debates, and a sequence involving a scientific disaster. Some younger viewers may find the depiction of a massive explosion and the existential uncertainty of the plot unsettling.

Key Insights

Quick summary and important considerations

This movie follows a scientist looking for answers in the stars; it is a thoughtful story about how people with very different beliefs try to understand something they have never seen before.

Content Warnings

Brief explosion sequence
Atmospheric tension
Themes of loss

Detailed Analysis

In-depth insights for parents and educators

What Parents Need to Know

The film is dialogue-heavy and slow-paced, focusing on ideas rather than action. Parents should prepare for conversations about how people react to life-changing discoveries.

What Kids Can Learn

Viewers gain an understanding of investigative processes and the challenge of communicating unconventional findings to a skeptical public.

Key Topics Discussed

Astronomy
Scientific Method
Philosophy of Faith

Why Parents Might Like It

It offers an intelligent, respectful exploration of the conflict between scientific evidence and personal conviction.

Positives & Learning

What makes this content valuable for children

Positive Messages

5/5

Promotes the importance of critical thinking, scientific inquiry, and the necessity of bridging deep personal and ideological divides to achieve common goals.

Positive Role Models

5/5

The protagonist demonstrates unwavering intellectual integrity, persistence in the face of institutional opposition, and a commitment to truth over convenience.

Diverse Representations

3/5

Features a strong, female lead in a science-driven role, along with a diverse international cast representing various global political interests.

Educational Value

4/5

Provides meaningful exposure to radio astronomy, the scientific method, and debates surrounding the intersection of faith and logic.

Parent Reviews(0)

Share your experience to help other parents

No reviews yet

Be the first to share your thoughts about this movie!