ET The Extra Terrestrial (1982)

Introduction

Steven Spielberg’s E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial (1982) is a landmark film that redefined science fiction and family cinema. A heartfelt story of friendship between a lonely boy and an abandoned alien, E.T. blends adventure, wonder, and deep emotional resonance. Upon its release, it became an instant classic, capturing the imagination of audiences worldwide and becoming the highest-grossing film of all time (until Jurassic Park surpassed it in 1993). Even decades later, E.T. remains one of the most beloved films ever made, frequently ranked among the greatest movies of all time.

Plot Summary

The story follows Elliott (Henry Thomas), a 10-year-old boy who lives in suburban California with his older brother Michael (Robert MacNaughton), younger sister Gertie (Drew Barrymore), and their recently separated mother, Mary (Dee Wallace). One night, Elliott discovers a small, stranded alien in the woods near his home. Instead of fear, he feels curiosity and compassion, bringing the creature—whom he names E.T.—into his home.

E.T. and Elliott quickly form a deep, telepathic bond. As Elliott hides his new friend from his family and the government agents searching for him, the bond between them grows stronger, revealing E.T.'s emotional and physical connection to the boy. With the help of his siblings, Elliott attempts to help E.T. "phone home" so he can be reunited with his species. However, as government authorities close in and E.T. weakens, the film builds to a dramatic and emotional climax that cements its status as a timeless masterpiece.

Performances & Characters

Henry Thomas as Elliott

Henry Thomas delivers an extraordinary performance as Elliott, balancing childlike wonder, loneliness, and emotional depth. His connection with E.T. feels real, and his performance is central to the film's success. One of the most powerful scenes in the movie is when Elliott, overcome with emotion, pleads with the seemingly lifeless E.T. to stay—an unforgettable moment of raw, genuine acting.

Drew Barrymore as Gertie

Drew Barrymore, just six years old at the time, steals nearly every scene she’s in. As the precocious and adorable Gertie, she adds humour and warmth to the film. Her interactions with E.T., including teaching him to talk, are some of the most charming moments in the movie.

Robert MacNaughton as Michael

Michael, Elliott’s older brother, starts off as a typical teasing sibling but soon emerges as a responsible and caring figure. MacNaughton portrays Michael with natural ease, making his character’s growth from skeptic to protector believable.

Dee Wallace as Mary

Dee Wallace brings warmth and believability to the role of Elliott's overwhelmed mother. Though she remains unaware of E.T. for most of the film, her presence adds emotional depth, particularly in scenes that highlight the family’s struggles after their father’s absence.

Peter Coyote as “Keys”

Peter Coyote plays the mysterious government agent known as "Keys" (due to the jingling keys on his belt). While initially appearing as an antagonist, he is later revealed to be a sympathetic figure who, like Elliott, has longed for an encounter with something beyond Earth.

Direction & Cinematography

Steven Spielberg’s Vision

Spielberg crafts E.T. with a perfect blend of heart, suspense, and wonder. The film taps into childhood innocence while addressing themes of loneliness, friendship, and the fear of growing up. Spielberg’s ability to create an emotional connection between audiences and an animatronic alien is nothing short of remarkable.

Cinematography by Allen Daviau

The cinematography by Allen Daviau plays a significant role in making E.T. visually stunning. The film often uses low camera angles, reflecting the world from a child's perspective. The use of warm, natural lighting in Elliott’s home contrasts with the cold, clinical tones of the government scenes, reinforcing the divide between innocence and authority. The iconic silhouette of Elliott and E.T. flying across the moon on a bicycle remains one of the most recognisable images in film history.

Special Effects & Design

E.T.’s Design

E.T. was designed by Carlo Rambaldi, who also worked on Alien (1979). Despite his odd appearance—a mix of reptilian and humanoid features—E.T. becomes incredibly lifelike thanks to detailed animatronics and puppetry. His expressive eyes and body movements convey deep emotion, making him feel real despite his alien nature.

Practical Effects & Magic

The film relies heavily on practical effects, which hold up remarkably well today. The glowing finger, the levitating bikes, and E.T.’s lifelike movements contribute to the film’s timeless charm. Unlike many sci-fi films of the era, E.T. focuses on emotional storytelling rather than extravagant special effects, making its moments of magic even more impactful.

Themes & Emotional Impact

Childhood & Innocence

At its core, E.T. is a film about childhood—its joys, its pains, and its fleeting nature. Elliott’s friendship with E.T. represents the magic of childhood imagination, and the film’s ending signifies the bittersweet transition from childhood to maturity.

Loneliness & Connection

Elliott and E.T. are both outsiders searching for belonging. Their bond illustrates the universal need for connection, making the film deeply relatable. Spielberg’s own childhood experiences of feeling isolated after his parents’ divorce heavily influenced the story, adding an autobiographical layer to the film.

Science Fiction with Heart

Unlike many sci-fi films that focus on action and spectacle, E.T. is about emotional connection. The government agents aren’t portrayed as outright villains but as misguided individuals seeking to understand E.T. The emphasis is on emotion rather than conflict, setting it apart from other alien films of the time.

John Williams’ Iconic Score

John Williams’ musical score is one of the most memorable in film history. The soaring orchestration in the bike chase scene perfectly captures the film’s sense of wonder, while the quieter piano themes evoke deep emotion. Williams’ score is integral to the film’s impact, making moments feel more magical and deeply touching.

Cultural Impact & Legacy

Box Office & Awards

Upon release, E.T. became a cultural phenomenon, earning over $792 million worldwide. It was nominated for nine Academy Awards, winning four (Best Original Score, Best Sound, Best Sound Effects Editing, and Best Visual Effects).

Enduring Popularity

Even decades later, E.T. continues to resonate with audiences of all ages. Its themes of friendship and belonging are universal, and its timeless storytelling ensures it remains relevant for new generations. The phrase "E.T. phone home" has become one of the most quoted lines in movie history.

Influence on Pop Culture

The film has influenced countless filmmakers and movies, from Stranger Things (which draws heavily from E.T.) to J.J. Abrams' Super 8. It also inspired video games, toys, and theme park rides, further solidifying its place in pop culture history.

Final Verdict

E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial is a masterpiece that transcends genres and generations. Its perfect blend of heart, adventure, and wonder makes it one of the greatest films ever made. Spielberg crafts an emotional story with unforgettable performances, stunning cinematography, and an iconic score by John Williams. Few films capture the magic of childhood as beautifully as E.T., making it an essential viewing experience.

A timeless classic that continues to touch hearts, E.T. is a film that reminds us of the beauty of friendship, the power of imagination, and the magic of the movies.