National Film Vault

FILM NOTES

Universal Pictures released E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial in June 1982, directed by Steven Spielberg. The film became the highest-grossing release of its time and remains a defining work of the decade, blending suburban childhood adventure with science fiction in a way that resonated across generations. John Williams composed the score, and the production marked a turning point in how studios approached family-oriented blockbusters.

This cell, titled Elliott and Friends Chase Scene, captures Elliott, Michael, Tyler, and Steve riding together on bicycles with E.T. present in the basket on Elliott's bike. Voiced by Pat Welsh, E.T. is visible across the three frames alongside Henry Thomas, Robert MacNaughton, C. Thomas Howell, and Sean Frye in the film's celebrated outdoor daylight escape sequence.