Plot Overview

The story follows a young boy named Elliott (played by Henry Thomas) who discovers a stranded alien, referred to as E.T., in the woods near his home in California. E.T. is a gentle and curious creature who is lost and trying to find a way back to his home planet. Elliott forms a deep bond with E.T., keeping him hidden from government agents and his family while trying to help him communicate with his home.

Elliott and his siblings—Gertie (Drew Barrymore) and Michael (Robert MacNaughton)—help E.T. learn about Earth and its customs. They share adventures and challenges as they work together to evade authorities and ultimately assist E.T. in making contact with his spacecraft.

Themes and Motifs

Friendship and Connection: The film explores the themes of friendship and the deep emotional bonds that can form between beings, regardless of their origins. Elliott and E.T.’s connection symbolizes the power of empathy and understanding.

Childhood Innocence: The perspective of childhood is central to the film, showcasing the wonder, imagination, and innocence of youth. Elliott’s experiences with E.T. represent the magic and challenges of growing up.

Isolation and Belonging: E.T. represents the feeling of being an outsider, emphasizing themes of loneliness and the desire for acceptance and belonging. His journey reflects the universal quest for connection and home.

Cinematic Style

E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial is noted for its innovative special effects, particularly the use of animatronics to bring E.T. to life. The film’s iconic imagery, including the memorable scene of Elliott and E.T. flying on a bicycle against the moon, has become emblematic of cinema.

The score, composed by John Williams, is particularly memorable, enhancing the emotional depth and nostalgia of the film. Williams’ music complements the film’s poignant moments and adds to its lasting impact.

Reception and Legacy

The film was a massive commercial success, grossing over $400 million at the box office and becoming the highest-grossing film of its time. It received critical acclaim for its storytelling, direction, and performances, especially that of Henry Thomas as Elliott and Drew Barrymore as Gertie.

E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial was nominated for nine Academy Awards, winning four, including Best Original Score. It has since been preserved in the National Film Registry for its cultural significance.

The film has had a lasting impact on popular culture, inspiring countless references, parodies, and homages in various media. It remains a touchstone for discussions about childhood, friendship, and the power of imagination.

Conclusion

Overall, E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial is a timeless film that resonates with audiences of all ages. Its themes of friendship, love, and belonging, combined with its innovative storytelling and memorable visuals, make it a landmark achievement in cinema and a cherished part of film history.