E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial Facts & Worksheets

“E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial” is a classic science fiction film directed by Steven Spielberg. It was released in 1982 and quickly became one of the most beloved and successful films of all time.

See the fact file below for more information about the Film Study, E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial, or you can download our 22-page E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial worksheet pack to utilize within the classroom or home environment.

Key Facts & Information

MOVIE SUMMARY

• “E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial” is a film filled with key events that contribute to its emotional impact and enduring popularity. Here are some key events from the movie:

E.T. Arrival:

• The film opens with a spaceship landing on Earth and a group of alien botanists exploring the forest. When government agents appear, the aliens hastily return to their ship, leaving one behind – E.T.

Elliott Discovers E.T.:

• The main character, a young boy named Elliott, discovers E.T. in the tool shed of his suburban home. The two establish a psychic connection, and Elliott decides to keep E.T. hidden from his family and the authorities.

E.T. and Elliott’s Bond:

• As Elliott and E.T. form a close bond, E.T. exhibits various magical abilities, including healing and telekinesis. 
• The emotional connection between the boy and the extraterrestrial becomes the heart of the film.

The Communicator:

• Elliott and his siblings help E.T. build a communicator using household items in an attempt to contact his home planet. This leads to a series of humorous and heartwarming moments as they try to understand E.T.’s needs.

E.T.’s Declining Health:

• E.T.’s health begins to deteriorate, mirroring the connection between him and Elliott. The emotional link between them becomes increasingly evident, leading to a powerful and heartbreaking scene where both are on the brink of death.

Government Intervention:

• The government discovers E.T.’s existence, leading to a dramatic and suspenseful sequence where they quarantine the area and try to capture the alien. The children, desperate to protect their friend, devise a plan to evade the authorities.

Bicycle Chase:

• One of the most iconic scenes involves a thrilling bicycle chase, where Elliott, his friends, and E.T. escape from government agents. The scene captures the magic of the alien’s powers and the sense of wonder that defines the film.

E.T.’s Influence on the Environment:

• E.T.’s powers extend beyond healing—he also revives dying plants and brings a stuffed toy to life, showcasing his extraordinary abilities and emphasizing the positive impact of his presence on Earth.

Farewell Scene:

• The climax involves a heart-wrenching farewell scene as E.T. becomes increasingly weak, and the spaceship returns to take him home. The emotional goodbye between E.T. and Elliott is a poignant moment that resonates with audiences.

E.T.’s Departure:

• The film concludes with E.T. boarding his spaceship, bidding a final farewell to Elliott and his family. The spaceship takes off, leaving a rainbow in the sky, symbolizing hope and the enduring power of friendship.

MOVIE CHARACTERS

• “E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial” features a range of memorable characters, each contributing to the film’s emotional depth and impact. Here are some of the main characters:

E.T.:

• E.T. is the titular character, an extraterrestrial being from a distant planet. He is accidentally left behind on Earth and forms a strong bond with the young boy, Elliott.
• E.T. is characterized by his curious and gentle nature, as well as his magical abilities, including healing and telekinesis.

Elliott (Henry Thomas):

• Elliott is the central character of the film, a young boy who discovers and befriends E.T. He becomes the emotional core of the story, forming a psychic connection with the alien. Henry Thomas delivers a powerful performance, capturing the wonder and innocence of childhood.

Michael (Robert MacNaughton):

• Michael is Elliott’s older brother. He initially doubts Elliott’s claims about E.T. but later becomes involved in helping protect and care for the alien. Michael plays a supportive and protective role throughout the film.

Gertie (Drew Barrymore):

• Gertie is Elliott’s younger sister. Drew Barrymore, in one of her earliest roles, portrays Gertie with charm and innocence. Gertie is curious about E.T. and, like her brothers, becomes emotionally attached to the alien.

Mary (Dee Wallace):

• Mary is the mother of Elliott, Michael, and Gertie. She is a caring and understanding parent who becomes concerned about her children’s strange behavior. Dee Wallace’s performance adds a relatable and human element to the story.

Keys (Peter Coyote):

• Keys is a government agent who becomes involved in the pursuit of E.T. Initially portrayed as an antagonist, Keys later shows a compassionate side and becomes sympathetic to E.T.’s situation.

Greg (Dee Wallace’s on-screen husband, played by an uncredited actor):

• Greg is Mary’s husband and the father of the three children. While his character is not as prominently featured, his absence due to a recent separation is mentioned, adding a layer of family dynamics to the narrative.
• These characters, along with a host of supporting roles, contribute to the film’s exploration of themes such as friendship, empathy, and the power of human connection.

MOVIE SETTING

• “E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial” is primarily set in a suburban town in California, USA. The film was shot in various locations, with the principal filming taking place in and around the city of Los Angeles. Here are some key settings in the movie:

Elliott’s House:

• The majority of the film unfolds in and around Elliott’s suburban home. The house becomes the central hub for the characters as they try to hide and protect E.T. from the government.

The Forest:

• The forest is where E.T. and his fellow extraterrestrial beings initially land on Earth. It’s also the location where Elliott discovers E.T. hiding in the tool shed. The forest becomes a crucial setting for the early interactions between the characters.

School:

• Several scenes take place at the school attended by Elliott and his siblings. The school setting is where Elliott first encounters the mysterious feelings and connections with E.T., leading to some humorous and awkward moments.

Government Facility:

• As the government becomes aware of E.T.’s presence, there are scenes set in a government facility where scientists and agents study and attempt to capture the alien. 
• This facility adds an element of suspense and conflict to the storyline.

Neighborhood Streets:

• The suburban neighborhood surrounding Elliott’s house serves as the backdrop for various scenes, including the iconic bicycle chase. The neighborhood captures the essence of suburban life in the early 1980s.

Medical Tent:

• When E.T.’s health deteriorates, a makeshift medical tent is set up in the house to care for him. This setting intensifies the emotional stakes as the characters desperately try to save the alien.

The BMX Bicycle Chase Route:

• The thrilling bicycle chase scene takes the characters through the neighborhood streets, into construction sites, and eventually into the air as they evade government agents. This sequence showcases the freedom and excitement of childhood.

The Final Scene:

• The film’s climax takes place at a clearing where E.T.’s spaceship is meant to rendezvous. This location becomes the focal point for the emotional farewell between E.T. and Elliott, as well as the departure of the spaceship.

MOVIE KEY THEMES

Friendship and Connection:

• In “E.T.,” the movie shows us how strong friendships can form between unlikely friends. Even though Elliott and E.T. are different, their friendship is powerful and helps them overcome challenges together.

Empathy and Compassion:

• “E.T.” teaches us to be kind and understanding to others, no matter how different they seem. Characters like Elliott’s mom and the government agent show us that being compassionate is important, even towards someone from another world.

Coming of Age and Self-Discovery:

• In the movie, we see how Elliott and his siblings grow up and discover more about themselves. Meeting E.T. becomes a big part of their journey, helping them understand friendship, love, and the adventure of growing up.

E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial Worksheets

This fantastic bundle includes everything you need to know about the Film Study, E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial across 22 in-depth pages. These ready-to-use worksheets are perfect for teaching kids about E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial. It was released in 1982 and quickly became one of the most beloved and successful films of all time.

Complete List of Included Worksheets

Below is a list of all the worksheets included in this document.

1. Film Study: E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial Facts
2. E.T. Summarized
3. Movie Review
4. Movie Themes
5. Character Analysis
6. Story Reflection
7. E.T.s Home
8. Away From Home
9. Anniversary Poster
10. Extra-Terrestrial Vision
11. Alien What Ifs…

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the premise of “E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial”?

“E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial” follows the story of a young boy named Elliott who befriends an alien stranded on Earth. Together with his siblings, Elliott hides the alien, whom they name E.T., from authorities while helping him to return home.

Who directed “E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial” and when was it released?

The film was directed by Steven Spielberg and was released on June 11, 1982

What are some iconic moments from “E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial”?

Iconic moments include E.T. and Elliott riding a bicycle across the sky, the scene where E.T. makes objects levitate, and the emotional farewell scene where E.T. says “E.T. phone home” before leaving Earth.

What impact did “E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial” have on popular culture?

The film became a cultural phenomenon, garnering critical acclaim and commercial success. It is widely regarded as one of the greatest films ever made and has had a lasting impact on popular culture, influencing subsequent films and television shows.

Did “E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial” win any awards?

Yes, the film won four Academy Awards out of nine nominations, including Best Original Score, Best Sound, Best Sound Editing, and Best Visual Effects. Additionally, it received numerous other accolades and nominations from various film festivals and award ceremonies.

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