E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial (1982)

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  TheMovieDiorama

  8 / 10

  E.T. The Extra Terrestrial is the epitome of 80s family adventure. Consistently referenced in modern day films, a pop cultural phenomenon and rated highly as one of Spielberg's best. Unsurprisingly, I can see why! It has stood the test of time. A young boy encounters a small alien who is accidentally left on Earth. He decides to keep the alien and assist it in contacting its home so that it can return safely with its race. Think of E.T. as an sci-fi symphony. Spielberg is the maestro, waving his camera around succinctly to create a visual narrative. Each section of the orchestra is an emotion. We've got happiness, laughter, bewilderment and even sadness. Spielberg unites these feelings to create a melodic film that encompasses each emotion perfectly. I still do believe he is one of the best directors for this very reason. He is a visionary master. If he wants to make a family adventure that all audiences can enjoy, well...he's going to. And he does so consistently well. He is able to embed themes of maturity, friendship and motherhood to enhance the meaning behind the glorious practical effects. The telepathic connection between E.T. and Elliott enables Spielberg to harness imagination and utilise it for creative control. Extremely effective towards the end where illness befalls, to which I'm sure will bring a tear to your eye. The acting was consistently good, especially from the child actors. Liked how the story was told through Elliott's perspective, to which the majority of adults are hidden from view. John Williams' score once again accompanies Spielberg's vision and complements the film euphorically to create some memorable pieces of music, such as the moment Elliott's bicycle soars through the night sky. Because I'm late to the E.T. party, I have seen very similar films so I was not as astounded as one may have been back in 1982. Nostalgia definitely plays a big part in the acclaim for E.T. however, it's a competently made family blockbuster that may seem small in scale but will deliver big emotions.

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