Two brothers embark on a journey with their father, who is trying to protect them from an alien threat.Two brothers embark on a journey with their father, who is trying to protect them from an alien threat.Two brothers embark on a journey with their father, who is trying to protect them from an alien threat.
- Director
- Writers
- Stars
- Awards
- 5 nominations total
Stefan Sims
- Ernie
- (as Stefan S. Sims)
Melissa Jo Bailey
- Cashier
- (as Melissa Bailey)
- Director
- Writers
- All cast & crew
- Production, box office & more at IMDbPro
Summary
Reviewers say 'Encounter' receives mixed reception due to misleading sci-fi marketing, disappointing those expecting alien themes. Praised for strong performances by Riz Ahmed and child actors, and its exploration of PTSD and mental health, it faces criticism for inconsistent writing and an anticlimactic ending. Some appreciate its dramatic, psychological shift, while others feel deceived by the marketing. Cinematography and direction are lauded, but the plot and pacing are contentious.
Featured reviews
I didn't read any reviews for this movie before watching, and I'm glad I didn't. Although it might not be your classic si-fi, I believe it was marketed like this for a reason to keep you guessing.
The acting was brilliant by the boys. Their performances are genuinely one of the most realistic for children I have seen.
It clearly isn't for people who are after a shoot-em-up alien flick (see the 1 star reviews), but much more a commentary on mental health, treatment of ex-soldiers, and the lack of empathy from the general system.
This movie is not a no-brainer.
The acting was brilliant by the boys. Their performances are genuinely one of the most realistic for children I have seen.
It clearly isn't for people who are after a shoot-em-up alien flick (see the 1 star reviews), but much more a commentary on mental health, treatment of ex-soldiers, and the lack of empathy from the general system.
This movie is not a no-brainer.
Its not what people expected and thats why everyone is hating on it. Its a mental health movie - and something we dont get a lot of. Riz is an amazing actor, and the kids were fantastic too. Well worth your time - but dont go into it expecting an all out action film. Its a family drama through and through.
I actually saw it because of its interesting cast and had low expectations because it seemed just like not my cup of tea but it turned out to be a fun ride. The story is interesting, it flows beautifully and unexpectedly, and tackles a beautiful topic. It has some nicely shot thrilling action scenes, it also gets emotional sometimes. All in all, it's very good and highly enjoyable but don't see it if you're looking for a typical sci-fi movie.
A ton of sizzle but no steak. The ending left me feeling disappointed and let down. I did enjoy the performances of the three main characters (Riz, Lucian-River and Aditya) however, as compelling as they were they couldn't save this movie.
Riz is slowly becoming one of my favourite actors, I am yet to see a performance from him that didn't impress me.
The movie starts with the great premise and its accompanied by another great performance by Riz and solid performance from boys, especially the older one.
The road trip interaction between father and its two sons is the one thing that holds this movie to be better than average for me.
What let's it down from being great is change of direction of the movie from about half way point.
From building brilliant suspense, to quickly resolving it, and disregarding it, towards the ending, that we have seen many times before.
The movie starts with the great premise and its accompanied by another great performance by Riz and solid performance from boys, especially the older one.
The road trip interaction between father and its two sons is the one thing that holds this movie to be better than average for me.
What let's it down from being great is change of direction of the movie from about half way point.
From building brilliant suspense, to quickly resolving it, and disregarding it, towards the ending, that we have seen many times before.
Did you know
- GoofsAt approx 94 the minutes mark, during the car chase scene across the desert with Malik and Jay. Jay yanks the Emergency/Parking Brake lever between the front seats. Ram pickup trucks don't have an Emergency Brake lever.
- Quotes
State Trooper: What's going on here
Malik Khan: A road trip with my boys. Little man needed to stop for a toilet break
State Trooper: Didn't think to put your hazards on?
Malik Khan: There was nobody on the road
State Trooper: I was on the road
- SoundtracksWaitin' Around to Die
(c) 1983
Written by Townes van Zandt
Performed by Townes van Zandt
Courtesy of Fat Possum Records
- How long is Encounter?Powered by Alexa
Details
- Release date
- Countries of origin
- Language
- Also known as
- Encounter
- Filming locations
- Lone Pine, California, USA(early desert town street scenes)
- Production companies
- See more company credits at IMDbPro
- Runtime1 hour 48 minutes
- Color
- Aspect ratio
- 2.35 : 1
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