E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial (1982)
An alien is left behind on Earth and saved by the 10-year-old Elliot who decides to keep him hidden in his home. While a task force hunts for the extra-terrestrial, Elliot, his brother, and his little sister Gertie form an emotional bond with their new friend, and try to help him find his way home.
Details
Budget
$10,500,000
Rating
8/10 (11331 votes)
Status
Released
Production Companies
Universal Pictures, Amblin Entertainment
About E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial
Released in 1982, "E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial" combines elements of science fiction, adventure, family, and fantasy. The story centers on the unexpected friendship between a 10-year-old boy, Elliot, and an alien accidentally left behind on Earth. As a government task force pursues the alien, Elliot, along with his siblings, forms a bond with the extraterrestrial and attempts to help it return home.
The film explores themes of companionship and longing for home through a child's perspective, set against a backdrop of pursuit and secrecy. Its narrative, featuring an alien and human child working together, connects to a sense of imagination and wonder. The film's enduring appeal is reflected in its strong critical reception and high audience scores.
Why you might be searching for E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial
Many people search for "E.T." due to its iconic status and memorable scenes, such as the flying bicycle sequence and the phrase "phone home." Its themes of childhood innocence, extraordinary friendship, and otherworldly encounters are distinguishing details that make it a frequently revisited film.
What reviewers are saying
One reviewer noted that watching the film with young children produced reactions of amazement and tears, despite some dated animatronics, with even older children finding certain scenes realistic.
Read the full reviewA review described the film as a global phenomenon that became a cherished classic, appealing to all ages with its joyful suburban settings and elements of magic, while also subtly touching on themes of divorce and government suspicion.
Read the full reviewA viewer characterized the movie as a "rare magical gem" and a unique, unforgettable experience that combines direction, cinematography, visual effects, acting, and music to create strong emotions.
Read the full reviewThis film is considered timeless by one critic, who found it a mix of love, sci-fi adventure, family, longing, and loyalty, amplified by its score. Key scenes like the bike chase and "phone home" are highlighted, and the performances of the child actors are noted as strong.
Read the full reviewFrequently Asked Questions
Common questions about finding and identifying movies
You can stream *E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial* on Netflix or rent/buy it on platforms like Amazon Video, Apple TV, and Fandango. Physical copies are also available on DVD and Blu-ray from retailers such as Amazon and Barnes & Noble.
No, *E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial* is not based on a true story. The film's concept was inspired by director Steven Spielberg's imaginary friend, created after his parents' divorce, and also evolved from an unrealized project called *Night Skies*.
At the end of *E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial*, E.T. initially appears to die, but is revived and tells Elliott his people are returning. Elliott, his brother Michael, and friends help E.T. evade authorities. E.T.'s ship arrives, and after farewells to Michael and Gertie, E.T. touches Elliott's head, saying he will always be there, before the ship departs.
*E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial* is widely considered one of the greatest and most influential films ever made, achieving a 99% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes and a 92/100 score on Metacritic. It was a massive box office success, critically acclaimed, and has received numerous awards, including four Academy Awards.