E
Elliott
A lonely ten-year-old who discovers and befriends the stranded alien.
ClearStory FILM GUIDE
E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial1982
A lost visitor. A lonely boy. One call home.
What you need to know
Alien botanists visit a California forest, but government agents arrive before one of them can return to the departing spacecraft. Nearby, ten-year-old Elliott lives with his mother, older brother and younger sister while struggling with his father’s absence.
1 hour 54 minutesFamily science-fiction dramaReleased in 1982
OPTIONAL REFERENCECharacters, places and useful termsContains story details. Open after watching.
QUICK REMINDER
6 peopleThe only names you need
ET
E.T.
A gentle extraterrestrial left behind when his spacecraft departs.
M
Michael
Elliott’s older brother, initially sceptical but soon protective of E.T.
G
Gertie
Elliott’s younger sister, who quickly accepts E.T. and helps teach him words.
M
Mary
The children’s mother, coping with the family’s separation and unaware of their secret.
K
Keys
A government scientist who has dreamed of meeting an extraterrestrial since childhood.
DURING THE FILM
Recap as you go
Choose only a scene you have completed. If you are unsure, wait until you finish watching.
Optional story focusContains story details. Open after watching.
AFTER WATCHING
Key story points
This section contains major spoilers, including the ending.
Content note: Child distress, frightening pursuit, serious illness, apparent death, family separation and mild language.
An unofficial, independently written viewing companion for E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial (1982). Not affiliated with or endorsed by the studio or filmmakers. No official images, logos or film artwork are used.