REVIEW: E.T.: The Extra-Terrestrial 40th Anniversary Edition
Steven Spielberg is closely associated with science fiction even though he’s really only made two pure SF films. In 1978, he dazzled us with Close Encounters of the Third Kind and then, just four years later, enchanted us with E.T.: The Extra-Terrestrial. The latter turns 40, and Universal Home Entertainment has released a special 40th-anniversary edition 4K version with an excellent scan and new DTS:X soundtrack.
In both films, there’s a sense of wonder about how we’re not alone in the universe. But, where the former film involves many people and leans into the UFO tropes, E.T. makes it far more personal as first contact is largely limited to one family. The emotional journey young Elliot goes on, as his fate and E.T.’s become intertwined, adds some nice weight to what could be seen as merely a children’s story. It is filled with heart and soul and a stirring John Williams score. I still remember feeling transported when I watched it that summer so long ago.
While the 4K edition debuted in 2017, this edition is somewhat superior, thanks to the improved audio and one new special feature. Please note this has been released to various retailers in various packages so shop wisely.
The 4K Ultra HD/Blu-ray/Digital HD Code combo pack is what has been reviewed and is strong throughout. The 1080p Blu-ray transfer is sparkling. Either disc will make for fine watching with the family. The new audio is very strong and clear and they include the 2.0 soundtrack as well, which is fine. The DTS:X track for the Blu-ray is serviceable and won’t detract from the viewing.
New to the package is40 Years of E.T.: The Extra Terrestrial – An all-new retrospective of the film and its lasting legacy.
All the previous special features remain and for completists, here’s the breakdown:
4K Disc 1
- 40 Years of E.T. The Extra-Terrestrial
- TCM Classic Film Festival: An Evening with Steven Spielberg
- The E.T. Journals
- Deleted Scenes
- Steven Spielberg & E.T.
- A Look Back
- The Evolution and Creation of E.T.
- The E.T. Reunion
- The Music of E.T.: A Discussion with John Williams
- The 20th Anniversary Premiere
- E.T. Ride
- Designs, Photographs, and Marketing
- Theatrical Trailer
- Special Olympics TV Spot
Blu-ray Disc 2
- 40 Years of E.T. The Extra-Terrestrial
- TCM Classic Film Festival: An Evening with Steven Spielberg
- The E.T. Journals
- Deleted Scenes
- Steven Spielberg & E.T.
- A Look Back
- The Evolution and Creation of E.T.
- The E.T. Reunion
- The Music of E.T.: A Discussion with John Williams
- The 20th Anniversary Premiere
- E.T. Ride
- Designs, Photographs, and Marketing
- Theatrical Trailer
- Special Olympics TV Spot