A legendary science-fiction film hailed as one of Steven Spielberg’s finest works is set to broadcast on television at no cost whatsoever.

The celebrated family picture hit screens almost 50 years ago and stands as one of the blockbusters that launched the filmmaker’s Hollywood career into the stratosphere.

Close Encounters of the Third Kind first graced cinemas in 1977 and has been mesmerising audiences ever since.

Spielberg joined forces once again with Jaws leading man Richard Dreyfuss for the sweeping yet personal sci-fi tale, depicting family man Roy Neary whose existence is transformed forever by the appearance of enigmatic UFOs.

Upon meeting single mother Jillian Guiler (portrayed by Melinda Dillon) who has also endured a disturbing brush with the peculiar beings, both become consumed with hunting them down, reports the Mirror.

Film enthusiasts remain captivated by the Spielberg masterpiece 48 years on and have a fresh opportunity to witness the wonder on BBC Two this evening at 6:25pm.

Those who miss the live transmission will also have the chance to view it on BBC iPlayer completely free for a restricted period following Close Encounters’ airing.

The film currently boasts an impressive 91 percent rating on Rotten Tomatoes, with one viewer commenting: “Forgot how much I liked that movie! Spielberg at his best!!

“I took my grandkids 11 and 6 they both fell asleep for the last 10 minutes!!! I tried to wake them but they were out!! I promised them we would find the movie and watch it again so they could see the ending! EPIC.”

Another glowing review enthused: “Everything about this movie is amazing.”

Someone else shared: “The plot of the movie was thrilling, adventurous, and incredible.

“It’s about discovering something extraordinary and amazing. If you haven’t seen this classic movie yet, check it out sometime. It’s a definite must see.”

Meanwhile, a five-star Google review declared Close Encounters remains one of Spielberg’s finest achievements decades on.

“Arguably Spielberg’s greatest film,” they penned, “Close Encounters of the Third Kind is a spectacle in terms of special effects, story, and acting. This film is fantastic, featuring some stunning special effects that even to this day, look fantastic.

“The acting is superb, Richard Dreyfuss gives an incredibly convincing performance as a man who doesn’t know what to think of anything anymore.

“The effects for the UFOs are some of the best I have seen in any film, the flashing lights and bright colours make for some amazing UFO encounter scenes. 10/10, 5/5, 100%.”

Will you be setting aside time for a Spielberg classic this weekend?

Close Encounters of the Third Kind will air Saturday, 18th October at 6:25pm on BBC Two and will be available on BBC iPlayer.