Steven Spielberg at SXSW: ‘Disclosure Day,’ Aliens & the Future of Film

AUSTIN, Texas — Steven Spielberg confirmed what many have long suspected: he believes we are not alone in the universe. The legendary filmmaker shared his thoughts during a live taping of “The Big Picture” podcast with Sean Fennessey at the South by Southwest Film & TV Festival on Friday, sparking renewed interest in his upcoming alien invasion thriller, “Disclosure Day,” slated for release June 12.

The conversation, attended by filmmakers Robert Rodriguez and Daniel Kwan, wasn’t a deep dive into plot details for “Disclosure Day,” but rather a sweeping look back at Spielberg’s six-decade career and his enduring fascination with extraterrestrial life. A montage of his iconic films – from “Jaws” and “Raiders of the Lost Ark” to “E.T. The Extra-Terrestrial,” “Schindler’s List,” and “Jurassic Park” – served as a potent reminder of his influence on cinematic storytelling.

Early Obsession: From ‘Sugarland Express’ to ‘Close Encounters’

Spielberg revealed that his interest in alien life predates even his breakthrough hit, “Jaws.” He confessed he wanted to make “Close Encounters of the Third Kind,” his first foray into sci-fi, before completing 1974’s “The Sugarland Express.” “I wanted to make ‘Close Encounters’ – then just referred to as ‘The UFO Movie’ – even before ‘Sugarland Express’,” he stated. This early passion underscores a lifelong curiosity that has now culminated in “Disclosure Day,” his first UFO-focused film since 1977’s “Close Encounters.”

The conversation took a timely turn when Fennessey asked about former President Barack Obama’s recent comments regarding the potential existence of intelligent life. Obama initially suggested the possibility of alien life, then later clarified his remarks to focus on the potential for life in the cosmos. Spielberg responded with a chuckle, noting his initial reaction was excitement for “Disclosure Day.” He continued, “I’ve always believed, even as a kid, that we were not alone. So that just goes without saying. The big question is: Are we alone now?”

Reignited by Government Reports

Spielberg attributed a renewed vigor for exploring the topic to two key events: the 2017 New York Times story detailing a secret government program tracking unidentified flying objects, and the 2023 Congressional subcommittee hearing on UAPs (Unidentified Aerial Phenomena). These developments, he explained, shifted the conversation surrounding UFOs from the realm of fringe conspiracy to one of serious governmental inquiry. As reported by The Hollywood Reporter, Spielberg expressed a “strong suspicion” that we are not alone on Earth “right now.”

The Social Impact of First Contact

While remaining tight-lipped about the specifics of “Disclosure Day,” Spielberg did offer some insight into the film’s thematic concerns. He suggested the movie grapples with the potential social and theological upheaval that might occur if definitive proof of extraterrestrial life – and, crucially, interaction – were revealed. “It’s going to cause a disruption in a lot of belief systems, but I don’t think it’s a lethal disruption at all,” he said. He emphasized he isn’t “afraid of any aliens, there or here.”

The Theatrical Experience and a Chalamet Aside

The discussion wasn’t solely focused on aliens. Spielberg also weighed in on the future of moviegoing, particularly in light of recent comments made by Timothée Chalamet regarding the relevance of traditional art forms like ballet and opera. Deadline reported Spielberg defended the communal experience of cinema, arguing that a shared viewing in a darkened theater fosters a unique sense of unity and emotional connection. He acknowledged the value of streaming platforms – noting his own work with Netflix – but maintained that the “real experience” comes from congregating in a movie theater.

Beyond ‘Disclosure Day’: A Western in Development

Spielberg also briefly touched on another project in development: a Western set to be filmed in Texas. He was deliberately vague about the details, only stating that it would be a departure from genre tropes. This project adds to a busy slate for the director, who continues to demonstrate a willingness to explore diverse genres and storytelling approaches.

What’s Next for Spielberg and ‘Disclosure Day’

The immediate next step is the June 12 release of “Disclosure Day.” Marketing efforts are expected to ramp up in the coming months, capitalizing on the growing public interest in UFOs and the director’s own pronouncements. Spielberg also confirmed he is actively developing the Western project, though a production timeline remains unclear. He also noted his continued commitment to pushing creative boundaries, citing filmmakers like David Lean, Billy Wilder, Paul Thomas Anderson, and Christopher Nolan as inspirations for constantly reinventing their craft.

Spielberg’s comments at SXSW serve as a compelling reminder of his enduring influence on popular culture and his willingness to tackle complex themes. With “Disclosure Day” on the horizon, audiences are poised to once again experience the magic and wonder that have defined his remarkable career.