E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial

E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial

Movie • 1982

He is afraid. He is alone. He is three million light years from home.

An alien is left behind on Earth and saved by the 10-year-old Elliot who decides to keep him hidden in his home. While a task force hunts for the extra-terrestrial, Elliot, his brother, and his little sister Gertie form an emotional bond with their new friend, and try to help him find his way home.

Science Fiction
Adventure
Family
Fantasy
115 minutes
Released
8+

Suggested Age

Every child is different — this is guidance, not a rule.

Themes of loss, separation, and the unknown present emotional complexity. The film also includes moments of suspense and peril.

Content Safety Breakdown

Detailed breakdown of potentially concerning content

Sex & Nudity

0/5

This movie contains no sexual content or nudity. The focus is on friendship and family bonds.

Violence & Gore

2/5

There are some scenes where E.T. is unwell and scientists are treating him, which can be a bit intense. The government agents also create some tense moments as they pursue E.T.

Profanity

1/5

There is very mild language used infrequently, such as 'damn' or 'hell', typically in moments of stress.

Alcohol, Drugs & Smoking

0/5

No alcohol, drugs, or smoking are depicted in this film.

Frightening Scenes

2/5

Some scenes might be a little scary for very young children, particularly when E.T. is in danger or when government agents are forcefully trying to capture him. The overall tone is emotional and sometimes suspenseful.

Key Insights

Quick summary and important considerations

This is a story about a lonely boy who finds a lost alien and becomes his secret best friend. They have amazing adventures, but they must keep the alien hidden from grown-ups who want to study him, and help him find his way back home.

Content Warnings

Medical experimentation (on E.T.)
Threatening government agents
Emotional distress of characters

Detailed Analysis

In-depth insights for parents and educators

What Parents Need to Know

The film evokes strong emotional responses to separation and loss, which may be intense for younger children. There are suspenseful sequences involving pursuit and confinement of the alien.

What Kids Can Learn

Children can learn about the importance of kindness, understanding differences, and the powerful bonds that can form between individuals, even those who are very different.

Key Topics Discussed

Alien encounter
Childhood friendship
Family dynamics
Consequences of secrecy

Why Parents Might Like It

Evokes nostalgia and offers a classic, heartfelt story of childhood wonder and enduring friendship.

Positives & Learning

What makes this content valuable for children

Positive Messages

4/5

Emphasizes deep friendship, empathy across differences, and the courage to protect those in need. It highlights the power of love and connection to overcome fear and adversity.

Positive Role Models

4/5

Elliot demonstrates profound loyalty and compassion. His protective instincts and willingness to defy authority for a friend's safety are admirable, though his actions in hiding E.T. carry risks.

Diverse Representations

1/5

No diverse representations indicated in available information.

Educational Value

3/5

Promotes social-emotional learning through themes of empathy, understanding, and loss. It also offers imaginative exploration of science fiction concepts and interspecies communication.

Parent Reviews(0)

Share your experience to help other parents

No reviews yet

Be the first to share your thoughts about this movie!