National Film Vault

FILM NOTES

Universal Pictures released E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial in June 1982, with Steven Spielberg directing at the height of his commercial and artistic powers. The film became the highest-grossing release of its era, displacing Star Wars, and earned four Academy Awards. Its portrait of childhood wonder, suburban loneliness, and an unlikely friendship resonated across generations, cementing its place as one of the defining American films of the twentieth century.

This 35mm cell captures Elliott and E.T. during the iconic bicycle flight sequence, one of cinema's most recognizable images. The frames, oriented horizontally, show the exterior suburban setting with vehicles and foliage visible as the two figures move through the chase. The confirmed title, E.T. and Elliott Flying, places this cell at the emotional and visual heart of the film.