Close Encounters -- which version?

[pstrauss]

I just bought Close Encounters 30th Anniversary Edition, but there are three versions and I haven't seen it since I owned it on VHS (not sure which version that was), so which is the best?!

[Grim Reaper]

i found 2 versions.

137minutes CE & the other with all 3 versions.

[Q?]

Originally Posted by pstrauss

I just bought Close Encounters 30th Anniversary Edition, but there are three versions and I haven't seen it since I owned it on VHS (not sure which version that was), so which is the best?!

Personally I watched the Original Theatrical version first.
Next I'll be watching the Director's cut and I'll be avoiding the Special Edition cut because it wasn't Spielberg's vision. It was the studios version.
This way I'll be able to experience it again with new scenes and a slightly different version.
They're all good, it's a matter of taste really.

[FindYourWay]

All 3 are interesting. Open up the poster insert and it will tell you the different changes of all the 3 versions.

[Kryptonic]

Watch either the theatrical cut or the director's cut. Avoid the special edition cut.

[nycomet]

Originally Posted by FindYourWay

All 3 are interesting. Open up the poster insert and it will tell you the different changes of all the 3 versions.

Agreed. over time, watch all three versions (perhaps one per year). It really is a fascinating evolution to see all three editions.

[JRS03]

Originally Posted by Kryptonic

Watch either the theatrical cut or the director's cut. Avoid the special edition cut.

+1 million