Steven Spielberg read my mind.  I must have come up with same story in my dreams and thinking because when I saw it the first time, I was aghast at how closely it resembled my hopes and ideas about alien encounters.  I love this movie and can watch it over and over.  Richard Dreyfuss gives, what I consider, the best performance of his career.  Teri Garr was great for the part, but I fell in love with Melinda Dillon.  If it ever happens, let it happen something like this.  Kudos to Mr. Spielberg for his insight and knowing exactly how to put it together.