E.T. The Extra-Terrestrial

reviewed by Amy Parsons

Suggested Ages: MPAA Rating: Star Rating:
8+ PG *****


What It's About:
A spacecraft lands, and its inhabitants hop off to do some exploring. When they are startled by the arrival of humans, they race back to their ship and head home. That is, all but one. That little extra-terrestrial hobbles off to a shed, where he is discovered by a lonely boy named Elliott (Henry Thomas). Elliott and E.T. befriend each other, although E.T. makes it clear from the start that he wants to go home. Elliott enlists the aid of his brother and sister (Drew Barrymore) and eventually their playmates. They have to elude not only the people who first stumbled on E.T.'s spaceship but also Elliott's mother. Despite the sadness at the thought of losing his new pal, Elliott pledges to help E.T. return home.

What Parents Need to Know:
Perhaps the only flaw with "E.T." is its length. At two hours, it can drag for younger attention spans. There are a couple of mild profanities and some tense scenes that can be scary for little ones. For children that emotionally invest themselves in that adorable E.T., there are two sequences that are very sad to watch.

The Bottom Line:
Who doesn't love E.T.? Most parents who indulge in a little nostalgia every now and then will enjoy introducing their children to Elliott and E.T. The only caveat in watching it is knowing what your child can handle. It's a two hour movie that at times has an intense, complicated narrative. Then there are the good-bye scenes, first when E.T. is sick and then when he hops back on his spaceship. Sensitive children or older teens may find themselves reaching for a tissue or two.

The Scoop:
"E.T." consistently shows up on lists of the best movies ever made, a tribute it richly deserves. The story, the acting and the Steven Spielberg aura that surrounds it help make it a truly great movie about friendship, family and loss. Children may want to know about why the "bad guys" are after E.T., which could open a dialogue on being different and respecting differences in other people. A great deal of the film is devoted to loss in its various forms, whether it be through divorce, death or a friend moving away. If you think your child is ready, then "E.T." is a must-see.

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