Steven Spielberg’s Box Office Legacy: Re-examining the Opening of Close Encounters of the Third Kind
Steven Spielberg’s 1977 science-fiction masterpiece, Close Encounters of the Third Kind, earned approximately $44 million during its initial North American theatrical run, according to The Numbers. While often cited as a massive commercial success that cemented Spielberg’s status as a blockbuster director, the film’s financial performance followed a unique trajectory compared to his earlier breakthrough, Jaws.
How did Close Encounters perform at the box office?
Released on November 16, 1977, Close Encounters of the Third Kind opened in a limited release of just one theater before expanding nationwide. According to Box Office Mojo, the film grossed $116.3 million domestically over the course of its lifetime, which includes subsequent re-releases and the 1980 “Special Edition.” The initial $44 million figure refers specifically to its strong performance during the primary 1977-1978 window, helping it become the highest-grossing film for Columbia Pictures at the time.
The film’s financial success was notable because it arrived just months after Star Wars redefined the blockbuster model. While Star Wars relied on high-octane space opera, Close Encounters offered a more contemplative, grounded approach to the genre, proving that audiences were hungry for diverse science-fiction storytelling.
Why the comparison to Jaws matters
To understand Spielberg’s career trajectory, industry analysts often compare Close Encounters to the 1975 release of Jaws. Jaws is widely credited with inventing the “summer blockbuster,” earning $260 million during its first run, as noted by Guinness World Records.
The contrast between these two films illustrates Spielberg’s influence on studio strategy:
| Film | Release Year | Primary Strategy |
|---|---|---|
| Jaws | 1975 | Wide release, heavy television advertising |
| Close Encounters | 1977 | Platform/limited release to build word-of-mouth |
What was the impact on Spielberg’s career?
The success of Close Encounters gave Spielberg the “first-look” creative freedom he needed to pursue more ambitious projects. Following the film’s eight Academy Award nominations—including a Best Director nod for Spielberg—the director gained significant leverage with major studios. This shift allowed him to move away from the “troubled production” reputation he earned during the filming of Jaws and establish himself as a reliable, visionary filmmaker capable of delivering both critical acclaim and commercial profit.
Key Takeaways
- Financial Impact: Close Encounters grossed over $116 million domestically across its lifetime, establishing a long-term revenue stream for Columbia.
- Genre Influence: The film proved that science fiction could be cerebral and character-driven, paving the way for future projects like E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial.
- Studio Relations: The film’s performance solidified Spielberg’s professional relationship with Columbia Pictures, setting the stage for his subsequent work in the 1980s.
Ultimately, Close Encounters remains a benchmark for how a director can balance auteur sensibilities with mass-market appeal. Its ability to sustain interest through multiple re-releases demonstrates the enduring power of Spielberg’s vision, which continues to influence modern directors who utilize platform-release strategies to maximize cultural impact.
Worth a look