A cinematic treasure described as 'magically wonderful' and holding a near-perfect critical score is set for removal from Netflix in the United Kingdom, prompting a last-chance viewing rush for subscribers.
A Spielberg Masterpiece Prepares for Departure
E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial, the beloved 1982 science-fiction film directed by Steven Spielberg, will exit the Netflix catalogue on 4 January. The movie, often hailed as the ultimate family film for all ages, continues to enchant audiences more than four decades after its original release.
Conceived by Spielberg and written by Melissa Mathison, the story of a stranded alien befriended by a young boy named Elliott was born from Spielberg's own childhood imagination following his parents' divorce. The film's groundbreaking animatronics were created by Carlo Rambaldi.
Record-Breaking Success and Critical Acclaim
Upon its release, E.T. became a global box office phenomenon. Made on a budget of $10.5 million, it earned a staggering $797 million worldwide. It famously surpassed the earnings of Star Wars to become the highest-grossing film of all time, a record it held for 11 years until Spielberg's own Jurassic Park dethroned it in 1993.
The film, starring Dee Wallace, Henry Thomas, Robert MacNaughton, and a young Drew Barrymore, was largely shot in chronological order to aid the emotional performances of its child actors.
Its acclaim is quantifiable: E.T. boasts a remarkable 99% critics approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes. It received nine Academy Award nominations, winning four for Best Original Score, Best Sound, Best Sound Effects Editing, and Best Visual Effects.
Enduring Legacy and Audience Adoration
Critics and viewers alike continue to shower the film with praise, emphasising its timeless appeal. One review noted the film contains "more heart, finesse, performance, and magic in single scenes than some movies have in their entire running time." Another called it a "spellbinding foray that reminds us of human compassion and the eternal joy of cinema."
Audience testimonials highlight its cross-generational power. One fan shared, "See this when it came out as a 10 year old and just watched it again as a 54 year old... Still makes me cry! An emotional nostalgic film for all the family and every generation!" Another declared it a "generational masterpiece" that can be watched repeatedly without losing its magic.
With its imminent departure from Netflix, UK viewers have a limited window to experience or revisit this piece of cinematic history that has shaped family entertainment for over forty years.
