Steven Spielberg’s movie, Disclosure Day, delves into debates about the impact of discovering extraterrestrial life on religion. Many have argued since the Pentagon began releasing U.F.O.-related files, whether such discoveries threaten religious beliefs.

Spielberg, known for his fascination with aliens and religious themes, suggests in the film that extraterrestrial encounters need not challenge faith in God. A nun questioning why a divine creator would make a vast universe, yet reserve it only for humanity, reflects the movie’s stance.

The film explores how popular views of extraterrestrial encounters challenge traditional organized religion. Aliens, in these scenarios, take on roles usually filled by key religious figures and messengers.

Disclosure Day integrates the existing U.F.O. mythos. In the storyline, a contractor, linked to the government, manages the cover-up of extraterrestrial encounters instead of the Pentagon. This aligns with claims from some would-be whistle-blowers. Republican congressman Eric Burlison has noted his investigation into RAND, MITRE, Aerospace Corp., and similar institutions.

Regarding the aliens’ nature, Spielberg’s film taps into U.F.O. stories with supernatural elements. These stories range from William James’s religious experiences to folk tales about encounters with fairies.

A main character recalls meeting aliens in a fairy-tale setting as a child, where they appeared as friendly beasts. Her experiences, marked by speaking foreign tongues and reading minds, are akin to religious mysticism. The film implies these aliens are guiding humanity towards spiritual maturity.