Review of E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial (1982) by Troy F — 25 Dec 2013

E.T. is one of those cherished classics that many have seen, and from my generation at least, most of us saw this in our childhood. It's a beautifully touching science-fiction story, and its practically a perfect family-friendly picture. Perhaps almost too touchy in the slightest and yes, its a heartthrob and a film with a very happy ending, so its very soft. Not a problem at all, but watching this at an older age, its more obvious.

I have little else I can say that hasn't been said already, E.T.'s a touching, likable extra-terrestrial and the fact we follow younger kids taking care of E.T. and see them through the happy and sad phases really pulls at the feel-goodness and ultimately the feels. Its a safe film, but that's not such a bad thing (though over time, the terrorist reference and the use of guns have proved more violent, so is it as safe now?) Its fun, its slightly thrilling and scary because we worry for what will happen to E.T., and its sad, and of course we all know he goes home at the end, happily ever after, and its just the right ending. Safe, but just right. Can you imagine if E.T. stayed in America? That's what the rip-off Mac & Me did, and that ending stunk like hell, it'd be super cheesy!

Watching with more observant eyes in this day and age, I also never noticed how terrific the lighting is in this film. Its not natural really, but its beautiful work and really adds a glossy touch to a glossed film, its a match made in heaven. Its just very atmospheric, in an exaggerated way. The camera work is great too, its technically a beautiful film, and also features one of John William's most touching scores yet.

Overall, its not a perfect film, and I don't believe in perfect films necessarily, but my perfect rating justifies that it's near-perfect. Like I said, its a very touchy, safe science-fiction movie that's too easily likeable, but that's the thing, you practically can't go wrong with this film. What's there to disagree on? Its balanced just right for all ages, and while its not that perfect choice of a film to watch anytime, its one of those films where if you bring up the idea of watching it... why not? It's a classic.