E.T. The Extra-Terrestrial - 9 stars out of 10

E.T. The Extra-Terrestrial - 9 stars out of 10

Although I was terrified of this movie as a child, I have come to realize that it goes beyond the simple concept of an alien being left behind on earth.  "E.T." uses a child's perspective to create one of the most epic stories of friendship in the universe.  With most of the shots filmed at a child's eye level and the purposeful avoidance of showing the faces of adults to avoid giving them identity throughout the course of the movie (with the exception of the mom), "E.T." has the power to transport any viewer back to the age of 10, looking at the world with innocence and naivety.  Henry Thomas is perfect in this role, acting far beyond his years.  The fact that none of these actors were stars when this film was made adds to the sense that this could happen to anyone.  It is amazing how well the special effects hold up 30 years later.  The robotics are amazing and it is impossible to avoid chills when Elliot rides the bike in front of the moon with one of John Williams' greatest musical themes overwhelming your senses.  If you didn’t get choked up during the final scene... you're lying.  Saying that E.T.'s final line is a tearjerker is an understatement.  This movie is the complete emotional package as a family-friendly adventure that has themes that can truly move adults.