
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 drama, and fantasy. The film centers on the unexpected friendship between a 10-year-old boy, Elliot, and an alien left behind on Earth. As a government task force actively hunts for the extraterrestrial, Elliot and his siblings work to keep their new friend hidden and help him return home.
The film explores themes of homesickness, empathy, and the unique bond formed between children and the alien. The story is largely presented from a child's perspective, highlighting the emotional journey and efforts of Elliot, his brother, and his sister Gertie as they navigate secrecy and danger to protect E.T. Its narrative of alien contact and friendship with a child protagonist has contributed to its enduring appeal across generations.
"E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial" has received high critical acclaim, reflected in its Rotten Tomatoes score of 99% and a Metacritic score of 92/100. It also holds a strong IMDb rating of 7.9, based on nearly half a million votes, and a TMDB average vote of 8 from over eleven thousand reviews. These scores indicate a consistently positive reception from both critics and general audiences since its release.
Why you might be searching for E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial
People often search for "E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial" due to its iconic status as a family sci-fi adventure, specifically remembering scenes like the bicycle chase or the phrase "phone home." The film's depiction of a child's bond with an alien and its exploration of themes like homesickness and empathy also make it a memorable title. Specific searches sometimes relate to details like a "pink bicycle" or children trying to "find a way home."
What reviewers are saying
One reviewer noted that watching the film with their own young child led to wide-eyed amazement and emotional reactions, despite some dated animatronics, with the child still finding certain scenes realistic.
Read the full reviewA reviewer described the film as a global phenomenon that appeals to all family members through its joyful setup and Spielberg's use of magic, also noting subtexts relating to divorce and government paranoia.
Read the full reviewAnother review praised the film as a unique and memorable experience, highlighting how Spielberg's direction, the cinematography, visual effects, acting, and John Williams' score combine to create a powerful emotional impact.
Read the full reviewA critic found the film genuinely timeless, calling it a love story, sci-fi adventure, and tale of family and loyalty, enhanced by John Williams' score, and noted the strong performances from the child actors.
Read the full reviewFrequently Asked Questions
Common questions about finding and identifying movies
You can stream *E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial* on Disney Plus, Sky Go, Now TV Cinema, and Netflix. It is also available to buy or rent on platforms like Amazon Video, Apple TV, Fandango At Home, and Sky Store. [justwatch.com](https://www.justwatch.com/uk/movie/e-t-the-extra-terrestrial), [netflix.com](https://www.netflix.com/sh/title/60022398)
*E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial* is not based on a true story. Director Steven Spielberg's family sci-fi classic was inspired by his own childhood imaginary friend. [justwatch.com](https://www.justwatch.com/uk/movie/e-t-the-extra-terrestrial)