A cinema experience worth having!

Rating: 7/10 (17 October 2007)

Steven Spielberg, at the height of his illustrious career, brought to the screen the most loved, fabulous and appealing fantasy of cinematic history.
Melissa Mathison's story, of a stranded alien who is befriended by a young boy who determines to help him 'phone home', is simplicity itself. The cast are wonderful and very complimentary, while "E.T." is realistically brought to life by some impressive special effects. The film is also technically sharp, and features a marvelous score from maestro John Williams, whose operatic composition is one of his best.
But the real credit must go to master director Spielberg, who has indeed crafted this film into a fabulous piece of entertainment. He alone makes the whole movie come together and work to perfection. And the way he endears us to both the cast and "E.T." himself (by no means an adorable creature) is amazing.
Finally, it must be stressed that this heart rending and indeed very funny film should only be seen at the movies (I was lucky enough to see it six times on the big screen). "E.T" is a cinema experience worth having, whereas on video it loses much of its enchantment and wonder. A true masterpiece from a fine director.
Wednesday, October 14, 1992 - Video
Even this perennial fantasy-adventure does wear thin after many years and several viewings, although the main reason for the lack of captivation on my part is (as I've said many times before) the fact that "E.T." is nothing if not viewed on the big screen.
Of course it is still an amazing journey into a world of hope, dreams and friendship, and a film Spielberg will probably never eclipse in terms of sheer wonderment.
With John Williams' superbly telling score, and the movie's technical genius, it remains one of the best films of all time.
Saturday, August 28, 1993 - T.V.