Encounter

Audience emotional responses for 'Encounter' are dominated by a blend of psychological tension and profound human drama. High **Anxiety** is generated by the perilous journey and the unpredictable behavior of the father, a veteran suffering from PTSD. This is coupled with deep **Sadness** and **Empathy** for both the father's mental state and, more acutely, for his young sons who are thrust into a terrifying and confusing reality, effectively losing their childhood innocence. **Fear** is present, initially from the perceived alien threat, then shifting to the very real danger posed by the father's delusion. **Melancholy** pervades the film, reflecting the tragic circumstances. **Confusion** and **Surprise** are key as the audience grapples with the ambiguity of the alien invasion, only to be surprised by the reveal that the true 'threat' is the father's mental illness. **Anticipation** builds as the audience wonders about the outcome of their desperate journey and the ultimate fate of the family.