E.T. The Extra-Terrestrial: The 20th Anniversary

E.T. The Extra-Terrestrial: The 20th Anniversary is rated PG:

TWENTY YEARS AFTER HE FIRST waddled onto the big screen, E.T. The Extra-Terrestrial is back in a special anniversary edition aimed at capturing a new generation of fans. The film sports digitally-enhanced sound and some previously unseen footage retrieved from the cutting room floor. Director Steven Spielberg also took the liberty of re-editing some scenes he was reportedly unhappy with in the original film. Using computer technology to alter the images, he made this film less violent by removing guns from the hands of federal agents.

The storyline revolves around 10-year-old Elliot (Henry Thomas), who meets a stranded alien hiding in his backyard. Following fairytale tactics, he lures him into the house with candy-covered chocolates. Once in the safety of his bedroom, he begins educating E.T. about life on Earth while keeping a protective eye on him. Before long, the boy lets his brother, Mike (Robert MacNaughton), and little sister, Gertie (Drew Barrymore), in on the secret. But while they closet themselves in with their newfound playmate, federal agents, eager to get their hands on the space visitor, zero in on the unsuspecting children.

This early Spielberg foray into movies hints at the director's legendary career to follow. By filming most of the adults at waist level, he shows us the wonder of their new discovery from a kid's level. Spielberg also uses deep shadows and lots of steam to keep the alien shrouded in mystery while he meshes in his trademark share of ethical lessons. Family support, acceptance of others, and the importance of home, all play into the equation that registers in the positive for family viewing in spite of some profanities and spats of name calling.

While sideline businesses like fast-food joints and toy-makers prepare to market the return of E.T., a new crop of parents may find themselves reliving their childhood as they introduce their own progeny to the big screen version of the little creature from outer space... but this time they'll be the ones picking up the tab for the tickets and popcorn.

Studio: Universal Pictures.

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Overall: A

They say you can’t teach an old alien new tricks, but Steven Spielberg figures a refreshed E.T. can still bring a whole new generation to theaters. A vibrant new soundtrack, enhanced visual effects, and even the removal of guns from government alien-snatchers, makes this E.T. friendlier for families.

Violence: A-

Characters chase alien. Characters take knives with them to investigate intruder. Character threatens siblings. Character falls in tub and is submerged. Characters briefly discuss poison. Character cuts his finger and it bleeds. Characters in cars pursue others on bikes on several occasions. Character is distressed by medical intervention. Characters become increasingly ill and one appears to die.

Sexual Content: A

None noted.

Language: B-

At least: 3 moderate and 2 mild profanities, 5 terms of Deity used as expletives, and some name-calling.

Alcohol / Drug Use: B

Character drinks beer and becomes intoxicated.

Miscellaneous Concerns:

Characters ride bikes without helmets. Character fakes illness, pretends to throw up. Rowdy behavior is shown on school bus. Extended scene includes discussion of frog dissection and attempts to kill frogs. Characters discuss the break-up of parent’s marriage. Characters eavesdrop on house occupants. Under-aged character drives without license.

How did E.T. react to scenes of conflict such as Elliot’s battle with his action figures? How did he act when Mike and Elliot stole Gertie’s doll and threatened to tear it apart? What might his behavior tell us about the planet he came from?

This film has several examples of blatant product promotion. Can you name some of them? Do you think this is a good way for companies to advertise? Is this an acceptable way for producers to get extra cash for their film? Do you think the movie’s success (or lack thereof) will reflect on the merchandise?

For other tales of aliens try Contact or Close Encounters Of The Third Kind. Other movies featuring unusual friendships include An American Tail, The Indian In The Cupboard and Free Willy.