E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial

As a kid, I loved E.T. I had posters, a wind-up toy, the storybook. There was something really endearing about that family friendly alien- despite what he looked like! ( I read somewhere that Harrison Ford referred to the character as ‘that ugly fuck’). The film was a magical study on childhood and as a 7 year old, I could totally relate to Elliot and his willingness to own E.T. as an almost exotic space pet. 20 years later, I took my girlfriend to watch the anniversary release of the film but as wonderful a film it was, I was probably too much of a cynical adult to truly enjoy it. So when and where you were when you first saw this film is perhaps more suited to the spirit of movies in the late70s and early 80s. Looking at the remastered treatment now, I am not sure which scenes of E.T. are CGI. The film certainly weaves a spell and every scene is perfectly shot and performed. Dee Wallace as the sympathetic yet overburdened mother was my secret crush and the story is imbued with two of Spielberg’s greatest qualities- humour and heart.

70% rating ... Solid Spielberg magic. Excellent directing and solid storyline. From a technical standpoint, the film does a good job. Overall, worth watching for sure, but not necessarily something I'd get excited for and re-watch numerous times as an adult.

E.T. holds deep nostalgia for many people. It’s one of those rare films that perfectly captures the magic and wonder of childhood. The bond between Elliott and the alien, paired with a beautifully executed coming-of-age story, makes it both heartwarming and deeply emotional—a true tearjerker. Spielberg has a unique ability to evoke raw emotion through poignant, powerful scenes, and the soundtrack complements the film flawlessly. Anyone who trashes this movie clearly lacks an appreciation for great storytelling, and frankly, I question their emotional depth. It’s disappointing that the audience score is so low—some people just don’t recognize good cinema when they see it.

E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial (1982) – A Timeless Masterpiece Steven Spielberg’s E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial isn’t just one of the best sci-fi films ever made. It’s one of the most heartfelt and magical movies of all time. Blending adventure, emotion, and wonder, E.T. tells a story that goes beyond aliens and spaceships. At its core, it’s about friendship, love, and the longing for home, making it a film that resonates across generations. From the very beginning, E.T. stands out because of its perspective. Instead of a traditional alien invasion story, it focuses on a lost, gentle creature and the young boy who finds him. Elliott, played beautifully by Henry Thomas, is a lonely kid struggling with his parents’ divorce. When he discovers E.T., their bond becomes more than just a boy-and-his-alien tale. It’s about two lost souls finding comfort in each other. Their friendship is pure, heartfelt, and incredibly moving, creating one of the most emotional connections in film history. What makes E.T. even more special is how Spielberg tells the story. The film is shot mostly from a child’s point of view, making the world feel bigger, more mysterious, and full of wonder. The cinematography, combined with the warm lighting and Spielberg’s signature storytelling, creates an atmosphere that feels both nostalgic and timeless. Every frame is carefully crafted to draw audiences into the magic of childhood, where bicycles can fly and the impossible feels real. Of course, E.T. wouldn’t be the same without its legendary score by John Williams. The music elevates every moment, from the quiet emotional scenes to the thrilling chase sequences. The soaring theme during the bike-flying scene is nothing short of iconic, making the audience feel the exhilaration and joy of that moment. Williams’ score doesn’t just complement the film. It defines it. For 1982, the special effects were groundbreaking. E.T. himself, created with a mix of animatronics and puppetry, felt incredibly real. His expressive eyes, glowing heart, and small, gentle movements made him one of the most beloved creatures in cinema. Unlike many sci-fi movies of the era that relied on flashy effects, E.T. focused on emotional realism, making audiences believe in the alien’s existence on a deeper level. Beyond its technical brilliance, E.T. carries a universal message of love, kindness, and the fear of saying goodbye. The film’s ending is one of the most emotional moments in cinematic history, reminding us that even when we part ways with the ones we love, they never truly leave us. More than four decades later, E.T. still holds up as a masterpiece. It’s a film that transports viewers back to childhood, where adventure and wonder filled every corner of life. Whether you’re watching it for the first time or the hundredth, it has the same effect. It makes you believe in the magic of storytelling.

Perfect film. Would recommend to anyone

E.T. THE EXTRA TERRESTRIAL, in my opinion, is a very touching movie about a special friendship for all ages that will warm your heart and make you cry.

A wonderfully touching story of love, caring, wonder, and friendship. When it hit theatres, it struck audiences all over the world with amazement as they were taken on a roller coaster ride of emotions even though the extraterrestrial should not have been very relatable. Steven Spielberg managed to touch the heart strings of most with this one. He has made a lot of wonderful films that could be classified in several different genres. This film, though not as poignant and educational as Schindler's List or as exciting as Jaws, remains a candidate for his best film ever and can be enjoyed by people of all ages (in my opinion).

This film made me cry and laugh. The world would be nothing without this flick. I think every child and adult should look at this film and aspire to make friends with people who are in sorrow.

Esta es una de las mejores películas de Steven Spielberg la trama es buena la historia es muy bonita

"ET," a timeless classic from 1982, tells the heartwarming story of an alien who lands on Earth and forms a bond with a young boy named Elliott. Together, they embark on a journey filled with friendship and adventure, highlighted by the unforgettable line, "ET phone home." Steven Spielberg masterfully crafted this film, infusing it with a sense of realism that makes ET feel like a genuine extraterrestrial searching for his family, rather than just a puppet or animated character. I truly felt a connection with ET, as if he were part of my own family. The iconic moments, such as the famous bicycle ride and the heartfelt "ET phone home" scene, are etched in cinematic history, solidifying this film as one of the greatest masterpieces ever made. It’s the kind of movie you could watch on repeat, bringing a touch of classic Hollywood magic into your home. I absolutely adore this film and find myself revisiting it often due to its incredible storytelling and emotional depth. I highly recommend it to everyone—it's a must-see classic that deserves a special place in your heart.