Please join us for the screening of 3 films about contact between alien peoples. These films are related to the “First Contact” course taught by Professors DePree and Falen, but no prior knowledge or preparation is needed to attend. Following each film, we will hold a discussion about the practical, ethical, and philosophical implications of encountering new peoples for the first time, both real-life examples and hypothetical science-fiction scenarios. Popcorn and refreshments will be served! In this adaptation of the Carl Sagan novel, Dr. Ellie Arroway (Jodie Foster) races to interpret a possible message originating from the Vega star system. In the scramble for first contact with an extraterrestrial intelligence, Arroway contends with a restrictive National Security Advisor and religious fanatics bent on containing the implications of such an event. An incredible message is found hidden in the signal, but will Arroway be the one to answer its call?