Henry Thomas Recalls ‘E.T.’s’ First Screening
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<figcaption class="wp-caption-text" id="caption-attachment-170396">Image Source: Universal Pictures Home Entertainment</figcaption></figure>More than four decades after its release, E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial remains one of the most beloved and influential movies ever made. Henry Thomas recalls his experience working on the film — one that continues to captivate audiences around the world. Today, new generations are discovering Steven Spielberg’s Academy Award–winning masterpiece and still feel the same emotions that moviegoers did when it first premiered in 1982.
At its heart, E.T. tells the story of a young boy named Elliott, who befriends a gentle alien stranded on Earth and helps him find his way home. With it
Inside the performances that made E.T. unforgettable
Alongside Spielberg’s masterful direction and John Williams’ Oscar-winning score, the performances of Henry Thomas, Drew Barrymore, and Robert MacNaughton gave E.T. its emotional core. As Elliott, Thomas brought a genuine sense of innocence and belief to the role, making audiences everywhere believe that E.T. was real, that bikes could fly, and that friendship could transcend worlds.
Henry Thomas recalls seeing E.T. for the first time
At a recent Terrificon panel, Henry Thomas recalls seeing E.T. completed for the very first time. Watching it with an audience in Houston, Texas in 1982, he realized just how deeply the film connected with viewers. The emotional reaction in the theater confirmed that Spielberg’s vision paired with the heartfelt performances and Williams’ unforgettable music had created something truly timeless.
Click on the media bar below to hear Henry Thomas.
Henry Thomas shares memories of E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial’s success
Upon its release in June 1982, E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial became an instant phenomenon. Henry Thomas recalls how quickly audiences around the world embraced the story and the emotional power it carried. The film broke box-office records, earning more than $790 million worldwide. It held the title of the highest-grossing movie of all time for over a decade. That record stood until Jurassic Park, also directed by Steven Spielberg, surpassed it in 1993.
Looking back, Henry Thomas remembers how critics and moviegoers praised E.T. for its emotional storytelling, groundbreaking visual effects, and timeless message of friendship. The film won four Academy Awards, including Best Original Score by John Williams. It was also nominated for Best Picture. In 1994, it was added to the National Film Registry for its cultural and historical significance.
More than 40 years later, Thomas reflects on how the movie continues to inspire new generations. Anniversary screenings, re-releases, and 4K IMAX editions help keep its legacy alive. Its themes of connection, empathy, and childlike wonder remain as powerful today as they were when Elliott and E.T. first took flight across the moonlit sky.
Even now, Henry Thomas recalls the timeless impact the film has had — and continues to have on fans around the world.
Watch the original E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial trailer
Relive the magic of Steven Spielberg’s classic with the original 1982 trailer, the one that first introduced audiences to Elliott, E.T., and the unforgettable “phone home.”
Where to watch E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial
If you’re one of the few people in the world who hasn’t seen it or you’re ready to revisit it for the millionth time, E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial is available on DVD, Blu-ray, 4K Ultra HD, digital platforms, and streaming now on Netflix.
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The post Henry Thomas Recalls ‘E.T.’s’ First Screening appeared first on Hollywood Outbreak.
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