E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial is one of the most celebrated and beloved movies of the 1980’s. Directed by Steven Spielberg, this film was an immediate success and held the record for Highest Grossing Film of All Time for eleven years. It’s a story about human relationships, and at the center isn’t a human but rather an extra-terrestrial. E.T. teaches people how to love, and is visualized through his glowing heart. 

This nostalgic sci-fi presents the story of ten-year-old Elliot, after he discovers an unearthly being in his backyard. A mysterious connection is formed between the two of them, which baffles Elliot’s family, and eventually prying government officials. They want to help E.T. return to his home, which proves to be a difficult and heartbreaking task. Nestled in this storyline is the common narrative of teenage angst and rebellion. It’s clear that Elliot has issues with this mother, stemming from her divorce from his father. The conflict that results from sibling rivalry occurs throughout the film.

This film is a journey into relationship building where Elliot learns to relate with E.T. He teaches Elliot how rich his life is because he has wonderful family and friends. This is clearly presented as the film reaches its climax.

Some of the most interesting aspects of this film are the connections that Steven Spielberg created between the storyline and parts of his life. During Spielberg’s childhood, his parent’s divorce inspired his creation of an imaginary friend. Years later, this imaginary friend sparked the idea for the character of E.T., and was brought to the screen in 1982. Similar to Spielberg, Elliot’s friendship with E.T. fills the empty space from his father’s absence. 

In the end, the film teaches all of us that we can become better people, through our willingness to be helpful and to be kind when we encounter people in need. 

The next movie on my list will be James Whale’s Frankenstein.