ET the alien. Introduction
ET the Extraterrestrial is a science fiction adventure film directed by Steven Spielberg and released in 1982.
The story follows a boy named Elliott who finds an alien marooned on Earth and befriends him. Together, they try to find a way to get ET back to his planet before he is captured by the scientists.
Movie Highlights
- One of the highlights of the film is the use of special effects and the characterization of the main character, ET.
The special effects used to bring ET to life were revolutionary at the time and are still impressive today. This helped create an emotional connection between the audience and the character, making him one of the most beloved characters in cinema. - The film also addresses themes such as friendship, communication and the power of love. Through the relationship between Elliott and ET, it is shown how love and compassion can transcend language barriers and cultural differences. ET becomes a symbol of the importance of empathy and solidarity.
- Another highlight of the film is Spielberg’s direction. He manages to create a magical and emotionally intense atmosphere, combining moments of tenderness with moments of tension and danger. John Williams’ music also plays a pivotal role in the film, adding emotion and elevating the most iconic scenes.
- In terms of social criticism, ET, the Extraterrestrial also addresses topics such as the connection between humans and nature, showing the beauty and fragility of our planet and the importance of taking care of it.
Furthermore, the film calls into question the intentions and interests of scientists and governments who wish to study and control extraterrestrial beings.
Movie Plot. ET the Extraterrestrial
The movie “ET the Extra-Terrestrial” tells the story of a little alien who becomes trapped on Earth after his spaceship leaves without him. ET finds himself lost and scared in a forest, until he meets a boy named Elliott.
Elliott is a lonely boy who lives in a California suburb with his single mother and his two brothers. One day, while Elliott is exploring the woods behind his house, he encounters ET. At first, Elliott is scared, but they quickly form a bond of friendship and begin to communicate telepathically.
Elliott takes ET to his house and decides to hide him in his room, keeping him a secret to protect him from the government and the scientists who are looking for him. During his stay, ET adjusts to life on Earth, discovering human food, toys, and the love of Elliott’s family.
As time passes, ET and Elliott develop an even stronger connection, making ET want to return to his home. ET builds a device to summon his ship, but his health begins to deteriorate due to the separation of his planet and Earth.
Meanwhile, the government has been tracking ET and finally finds his location. They decide to take it to the laboratory to study it. Elliott and his friends, who have also formed a bond with ET, plan to rescue him before it’s too late.
On an exciting night, Elliott and his friends avoid government agents and free ET. Together, they run into the forest while being chased. In a last desperate attempt to call his ship, ET raises his hand and uses his power to blow Elliott’s bike into the air.
Finally, ET’s spaceship arrives to take him back to his planet. Before leaving, ET says goodbye to Elliott and his family, leaving a deep impact on all of them. Upon his departure, ET promises Elliott that he will always be in his heart.
The film concludes with Elliott and his family enjoying a new connection with each other and carrying with them the memory of the extraordinary friendship they shared with a little alien named ET.
Main actors of the film and the awards that each of them
The main actors of the film and the awards that each of them has received throughout their careers:
- Henry Thomas as Elliott: Henry Thomas won the Saturn Award for Best Younger Actor from the Academy of Science Fiction, Fantasy and Horror Films in 1983 for his performance in “ET the Extra-Terrestrial.”
- Dee Wallace as Mary: Dee Wallace has not won awards for her performance in “ET,” but she has had a notable career in film and television.
- Peter Coyote as Keys: Peter Coyote has not won any awards for his role in “ET the Extra-Terrestrial”, but he has received various recognitions in his acting career.
- Drew Barrymore as Gertie: Although Drew Barrymore was just a child at the time she played Gertie, her performance in “ET the Extra-Terrestrial” was the launching point of his career. He has not won specific awards for his participation in this film, but he has won several awards and nominations throughout his career.
It should be noted that “ET the Extraterrestrial” was a great success both at the box office and with critics and received several awards and nominations in different categories at the Academy Awards and the Golden Globes.
Awards and recognitions received for the movie ET, The Extraterrestrial
Over the years, the movie “ET the Extraterrestrial” has received numerous awards and recognitions.
Some of the most notable awards received by “ET, the Extraterrestrial” are:
- 4 Academy Awards, including Best Sound, Best Visual Effects, Best Sound Editing and Best Original Score.
- 2 Golden Globe Awards, one for Best Film – Drama and another for Best Director.
- The Saturn Award for Best Science Fiction Film.
- The BAFTA award for Best Visual Effects.
- The Grammy Award for Best Original Motion Picture Score.
- In addition to these awards, “ET, the Extraterrestrial” has been recognized for its cultural contribution and its impact on the film industry. It has been included in various lists as one of the best films of all time and continues to be considered a cinema classic.
Criticism received. ET, The Extraterrestrial
Some of the most common criticisms that have been pointed out to the movie ET are the following:
- Excessive sentimentality: Some critics have argued that the film goes too far in emotional manipulation, using the alien story to appeal directly to the viewer’s feelings.
- Childish tone: Despite being a family film, there have been those who consider that ET has too childish a tone and that it fails to be equally enjoyable for adults.
- Outdated Special Effects: Considering that ET was released in 1982, some critics feel that the special effects look outdated and can be distracting to the viewer at times.
- Superficial exploration of deeper themes: While the film touches on themes such as friendship, fear of the unknown, and a sense of belonging, some critics have felt that these themes could have been explored in a deeper and more complex way.
- Despite these criticisms, ET the Extra-Terrestrial has been widely acclaimed by both the public and critics in general. The film has been considered a cinema classic and has left a lasting mark on popular culture.
ET, The Extraterrestrial. Trailer
The ET the Extra-Terrestrial trailer begins by showing a group of scientists discovering the presence of an alien on Earth. As the images progress, we see how this alien being is left behind by his spaceship and finds himself alone in an unknown location.
The alien, whom they call ET, soon encounters a boy named Elliot. Over time, ET and Elliot form a strong connection and establish a unique and special friendship. As their relationship grows, Elliot decides to help ET return home and reunite with his spaceship.
Throughout the trailer, we see how ET faces numerous challenges and dangers while Elliot does everything he can to protect him. Additionally, it seems that scientists and the government are interested in capturing ET for study.
The trailer shows exciting adventure scenes, touching moments between ET and Elliot, as well as the joint effort of the neighborhood children to help the alien escape the dangers he faces. It ends with a striking image of ET on a flying bike, as Elliot accompanies him in his attempt to return home.
Conclusion
ET, the Extra-Terrestrial shows a story of friendship and adventure between a boy and an alien, as well as the obstacles they must face to achieve ET’s goal of returning home.
ET the Extra-Terrestrial is a film that has left an indelible mark on popular culture. Its emotional and entertaining story, innovative special effects and universal themes have made it a classic of science fiction cinema and a Steven Spielberg masterpiece.
