John Was Trying to Contact Aliens

John Was Trying to Contact Aliens is a captivating 2020 film that delves into the life of John Shepherd, a man who spent three decades attempting to contact extraterrestrials from his grandparents' living room in rural Michigan. Directed by Matthew Killip, this 16-minute short film offers a fascinating and tender exploration of Shepherd's unique journey, revealing intriguing facets of his personal life amidst the backdrop of his self-immolating obsession with interstellar communication. The film was released as part of Netflix’s original documentary series.

John Shepherd is a fascinating figure who journeyed outside the trope of the eccentric inventor. He was not a recognized scientist and didn't work for any prominent institution like NASA. He was just a man who started with a simple antenna and some electronic equipment in his grandparents' house. The fact that he was able to construct an impressive array of electromagnetic equipment capable of broadcasting deep into space is a testament to his dedication and resourcefulness.

Contrary to the implications of its title, the film doesn't focus solely on Shepherd's attempts to contact extraterrestrial life. Instead, the film delves into a multifaceted exploration of Shepherd's personality, personal life, and unyielding dedication. The film offers a touching portrayal of Shepherd and his attempts to forge a connection, both with the unknown expanse of the universe and the people around him as well.

The film features John Litrenta, the only other prominent character in the story, and Shepherd’s closest companion. His relationship with Shepherd offers a tender counterbalance to the relentless pursuit of extraterrestrial contact, providing viewers a glimpse into Shepherd's non-scientific, human side. It is this aspect of Shepherd's life, displayed with warmth and honesty, that infuses humanity into the cold scientific endeavor he embarks upon.

John Was Trying to Contact Aliens offers a window into Shepherd’s unique undertakings, as he let his life be consumed by his singular obsession. Shepherd's house was filled with homemade hardware and towering electronic equipment. The film gives viewers an insider look at this eccentric setup with stunning cinematography, relishing in the beauty and awe of the technology Shepherd spent decades assembling. The documentary captures the surreal nature of Shepherd's home-turned-laboratory remarkably well, displaying the breadth, depth, and scale of his sustained efforts.

The film also delves into Shepherd's transcendental and meditative music selections that were broadcast into space, offering another intriguing peek into his unique character. The music chosen by Shepherd was far from arbitrary. He believed that an appreciation for these sound waves was a universal phenomenon, shared not just among Earth's diverse cultures, but perhaps among alien civilizations as well.

The documentary’s production values are exceptional, with the vivid cinematography contrasting effectively with the grainy home footage of Shepherd. From tight shots of Shepherd's hands manipulating the dial of his equipment to broader shots that capture the full scale of his homemade broadcasting station, the film delivers a visual treat. The film also features a poetic soundscape, a blend of Shepherd's eclectic music and ambient noise from his continuous broadcasting.

As the movie unfurls, it becomes clear that John Was Trying to Contact Aliens is not just about a man seeking extraterrestrial life. It’s about the innate human need for contact, for a connection that transcends geographical and now interstellar boundaries. It’s about shared passions and finding solace in others who understand and support our dreams, however outlandish they may seem.

Despite its brief runtime, the documentary film succeeds in presenting an engaging, affectionate, and visually stunning portrait of John Shepherd. It takes a deep dive into his life, the relationships he cherishes, and the transformation he undergoes over the course of his long endeavor. More than just a tale about the search for alien life, the film is a warm and intimate exploration of human longing, dedication, and affection.

John Was Trying to Contact Aliens is an inviting spectacle that lures viewers in, much like the alien life Shepherd sought to connect. It's as much about the universality of the human need for connection as it is about the astronomical equipment housed within Shepherd's grandparent's home. This poignant tale of dedication and longing, resonating beautifully in its brevity, is sure to leave viewers thinking about their place in the universe.