The 'E.T.' Journals

The 'E.T.' Journals is a fascinating documentary that takes audiences on a behind-the-scenes journey through the making of the beloved film, E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial, directed by the iconic Steven Spielberg. This poignant documentary, composed entirely of original footage shot during production in 1981, offers a unique glimpse into the creative process and the emotions that fueled the making of this timeless classic. The documentary begins by showcasing the first day of shooting, introducing viewers to the talented cast and crew that brought the story to life. We see Henry Thomas, as the curious and adventurous Elliott, and Drew Barrymore, as his older sister Gertie, arriving on set, their wide-eyed innocence and charm capturing the hearts of everyone involved in the production. We also meet the brilliant Peter Cook and Pat Welsh, who bring to life the lovable and memorable characters of Keys and E.T., respectively. From this opening scene, the documentary masterfully follows the chronological order of the film's production, weaving together behind-the-scenes footage that showcases the actors' rehearsals, rehearsals with director Steven Spielberg, and actual filming. We see Elliott's first encounter with E.T. in the iconic phone booth scene, Thomas's reactions to Spielberg's direction, and Barrymore's giggles as she plays with her brother on set. The documentary also takes us on a journey behind the scenes of the film's most iconic scenes, including the memorable flying bike sequence and Elliott's final goodbye to his beloved alien friend. We see Spielberg's meticulous attention to detail, the special effects team's tireless efforts to bring the fantastical elements to life, and the entire cast and crew's collaborative spirit. Throughout the documentary, we also catch glimpses of Steven Spielberg's creative process, as he works with the cast to perfect every line delivery, emotion, and reaction. We witness the director's passion and enthusiasm, as he pushes the boundaries of storytelling and technical innovation to bring this extraordinary tale to life. One of the most fascinating aspects of The 'E.T.' Journals is its exploration of how the special effects team worked tirelessly to create the illusion of an alien invasion and the fantastical elements that populate the film. We see the team of experts, led by Spielberg's long-time collaborator, Carlo Rambaldi, working with incredible models, mechanical effects, and matte paintings to create the unforgettable scenes, from the eerie forest to the fantastical spaceship. The documentary also delves into the personal side of the production, offering poignant insights into the relationships between the cast and crew. We see Elliott's bond with E.T. and the way it brings his family together, and how this connection inspired Thomas to deliver an incredibly nuanced and heartfelt performance. As we watch this documentary, we gain a deeper appreciation for the making of E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial, one of the most beloved films of all time. We see the care, attention, and passion that went into every detail, from the actors' performances to the groundbreaking special effects. The 'E.T.' Journals is a poignant tribute to the power of imagination, creativity, and collaboration that made this timeless classic a masterpiece of filmmaking. Through its behind-the-scenes exploration, the documentary masterfully captures the essence of Spielberg's filmmaking style, revealing a director who is not only masterful in his art but also deeply empathetic and compassionate. We see the way he coaxes incredible performances from his actors, the way he nurtures the creative process, and the way he strives to push the boundaries of storytelling. As we reflect on this extraordinary documentary, we are reminded that E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial is more than a film – it's an experience, a journey of imagination and connection, a testament to the enduring power of cinema to move us, inspire us, and bring us together as a global community. The 'E.T.' Journals is a fitting tribute to this timeless classic, offering a unique window into the creative process and a poignant reminder of the magic that happens when art and imagination come together.