E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial (1982)
Synopsis:
When a gentle alien visitor is accidentally left behind on Earth, he's discovered and befriended by a lonely 10-year-old boy named Elliott. Determined to protect his extraordinary new companion, Elliott hides the stranded extraterrestrial in his home, away from the government task force desperately searching for him. As Elliott, his older brother Michael, and his little sister Gertie form a deep emotional connection with their otherworldly friend, they realize he's frightened, alone, and desperately wants to return home. Together, the children embark on a mission to help their alien companion find a way back to his own world, even as authorities close in. This heartwarming adventure explores the power of friendship, compassion, and the universal longing for home, making it a timeless story that resonates with audiences of all ages.
Where To Watch: E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial
Parental Feedback
E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial balances heartwarming emotional moments with genuine suspense and tension as government agents pursue the alien visitor. Parents should expect a film that moves between gentle, humorous scenes of childhood friendship and more intense sequences involving separation anxiety, fear of authority figures, and the threat of losing a beloved friend. The pacing builds gradually from wonder and discovery to urgent action, with themes of loyalty, compassion, and saying goodbye that may resonate deeply with sensitive children.
Why Kids Should Watch E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial
E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial offers several meaningful lessons wrapped in an adventure that celebrates childhood imagination and empathy.
The bond between Elliott and E.T. demonstrates how kindness and understanding can bridge even the most impossible differences. Children witness how protecting someone vulnerable and helping them find their way home becomes more important than personal desires.
The sibling relationships show realistic family dynamics where Michael and Gertie ultimately support Elliott despite initial skepticism and teasing. Their teamwork illustrates how families can unite when facing challenges together.
Steven Spielberg's direction creates a sense of wonder about the universe and encourages curiosity about what lies beyond our world. The film treats children's perspectives seriously, showing that young people can be brave, resourceful, and capable of extraordinary compassion.
The emotional core teaches children about friendship, sacrifice, and the bittersweet nature of letting go when it's the right thing to do. These universal themes help kids process complex feelings about connection and loss.
Why Kids Shouldn't Watch E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial
Parents should consider several potentially challenging elements before viewing with younger or more sensitive children.
The scenes involving government agents in hazmat suits searching for E.T. can be frightening, particularly when they invade the family home and quarantine Elliott and his alien friend. The faceless, intimidating authority figures may cause anxiety in children who fear separation from parents.
E.T.'s illness and apparent death create intense emotional moments that have caused distress in many young viewers. The medical procedures and the sight of the alien appearing lifeless can be genuinely upsetting for children not prepared for such scenes.
Some sequences feature children in peril, including a high-speed bicycle chase to escape adults and moments where Elliott's connection to E.T. causes him physical distress. The sense of danger and the children operating without parental guidance may worry some families.
Verdict: Parent Approved
E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial earns approval for families with children ready for emotional storytelling that balances wonder with genuine stakes and teaches profound lessons about friendship and compassion.
What Parents Should Know About E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Does this Movie model positive behavior that my child can understand and repeat? | Yes, Elliott demonstrates exceptional kindness by protecting E.T., while all three children show loyalty, teamwork, and the courage to do what's right even when adults disagree. |
| Does this Movie include emotional moments my child might find confusing or intense? | Yes, E.T.'s illness and apparent death, the government invasion of the home, and the final goodbye scene are emotionally powerful moments that may overwhelm sensitive or younger children. |
| Does this Movie show consequences for unkind or unsafe behavior? | The film focuses more on positive actions than negative consequences, though the government agents' aggressive pursuit of E.T. is portrayed as frightening and wrong. |
| Does this Movie reinforce helpful social skills like sharing, apologizing, or teamwork? | Yes, the siblings work together to protect and help E.T., demonstrating cooperation, trust, and the importance of supporting each other during difficult times. |
| Will my child come away with any clear moral or message? | Yes, the film teaches that true friendship means caring for others' needs above your own wants, and that compassion can overcome fear of the unknown. |
The Overall Sentiment From Parental Feedback
Parents generally regard E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial as a meaningful family experience that introduces children to emotionally complex storytelling. Many appreciate how the film respects children's intelligence and emotional capacity while delivering important messages about empathy and friendship. Some parents note that the intense scenes involving E.T.'s illness and the government agents require preparation, particularly for children under seven or those sensitive to separation themes. The consensus suggests this works best for families ready to discuss feelings of loss and the importance of doing the right thing even when it's difficult. Most parents value the film's ability to spark conversations about kindness to those who are different and the responsibilities that come with caring for others.
Official E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial Trailer
Why Kids Love E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial
Elliott and his siblings turn their suburban home into a secret headquarters, hiding an actual alien from grown-ups and government agents. They rig up clever disguises and distractions, smuggling E.T. past their mom and keeping him safe in the closet among stuffed animals and toys. The thrill of maintaining this enormous secret while adults search everywhere makes every close call edge-of-your-seat exciting.
E.T. himself brings wild, unpredictable moments—he gets into the fridge, stumbles around the house, and even makes objects float through the air. When Elliott and E.T. develop their mysterious connection, kids watch as the alien's emotions affect Elliott in hilarious and surprising ways. The glowing fingertip and the sight of bicycles suddenly lifting off the ground and soaring across the moon create pure movie magic.
The big escape sequence delivers non-stop action as Elliott, Michael, and their friends pedal furiously through the neighborhood with government vehicles and walkie-talkie-wielding agents in hot pursuit. They weave through backyards and race down streets, using their bikes like getaway vehicles. When those bicycles take flight to help their alien friend reach his spaceship, it's the ultimate payoff for their daring rescue mission.