E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray Review

The 4K UHD Blu-Ray release of "E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial" presents a substantial visual upgrade over its previous Blu-ray counterpart, demonstrating significant enhancements in fidelity and detail. Leveraging a beautifully restored HEVC H.265 encode, this edition maintains a consistent, ultra-fine grain structure providing an authentic film-like experience. Notably, the transfer is derived from the original theatrical version, excluding any alterations made in the 2002 re-release. With this 2160p upgrade, viewers can appreciate enhanced clarity and depth in detail, especially in daytime exteriors and intricate textures on E.T.’s leathery skin and human faces.

The application of High Dynamic Range (HDR) significantly augments the visual experience. The addition of HDR offers superior contrast and brightness, ensuring deeper blacks and vibrant whites, which add richness to interior scenes and emphasize the film’s dynamic lighting. Luxurious, inky shadows and brilliant specular highlights accentuate fine details like the reflections off E.T.'s skin, making every wrinkle and pore visible. The 1.85:1 aspect ratio remains faithful to the original cinematic presentation while exhibiting appreciable improvements in color accuracy, with lively blues and reds and enhanced warmth in skin tones.

Despite some minor dips in resolution and varying grain during special effects sequences, these instances do not notably detract from the viewing experience. Overall, the meticulous restoration and HDR improvements make this 4K UHD release an exceptional visual presentation, remarkably capturing the cinematic essence synonymous with Spielberg’s beloved masterpiece. This release invites audiences to rediscover "E.T." as it would have been experienced during its theatrical debut, albeit with the benefits of modern technology that vividly enhance its legendary imagery.

The 4K UHD Blu-ray audio presentation of "E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial" delivers a remarkable upgrade from its previous formats, anchored by a new English DTS:X mix. While the improvement over the previous 7.1 DTS-HD Master Audio may not be monumental, it introduces an expansive soundstage that enhances the film’s ambiance significantly. The DTS:X track, while sharing its roots with E.T.'s original 2.0 audio, offers a natural and immersive viewing experience. Height channels are effectively utilized, extending the soundstage and bringing vivid clarity, particularly during dynamic sequences such as the iconic bike chase and spacecraft scenes. The low-frequency effects (LFE) support the track subtly but fittingly, avoiding overwhelming bass while ensuring that the sound is integral and authentic to the film's vintage.

John Williams’ legendary score receives high praise in this audio mix, maintaining its role as a pivotal part of the viewer's auditory experience. The DTS:X presentation breathes new life into the music, allowing it to energize with rich detail and sweep across the soundstage with crisp dynamics and sharp precision in instrumentation. This enhancement leads to an engaging audio tapestry that evokes the original cinematic magic felt in 1982. Dialogue remains crystal clear, situated firmly in the center channel, allowing for every emotionally charged line to resonate effectively. Surround effects, though understated compared to contemporary action films, strategically heighten key moments with seamless transitions and excellent directionality.

In sum, the DTS:X mix on E.T.'s 4K release honors the film’s aural legacy with sophistication and an immersive quality that should satisfy both die-hard fans and new viewers alike. Optional subtitles, available in multiple languages such as English SDH, French, Spanish, and more, enrich accessibility, making this edition a compelling upgrade for home entertainment systems.

The 4K UHD Blu-ray release of "E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial" impressively encapsulates the film's legacy with an array of meticulously curated extras that appeal to both avid fans and cinephiles alike. A highlight is the "E.T. Journals," offering unprecedented behind-the-scenes insights captured by John Toll, which vividly bring to life the production process. Interviews with Steven Spielberg reveal introspective reflections on his iconic creation, complemented by discussions featuring the evocative musical collaboration between Spielberg and renowned composer John Williams. The package also includes exhaustive design galleries showcasing contributions from luminaries such as Ed Verreaux and Carlo Rambaldi. Each featurette is a testament to the film’s innovative spirit and enduring charm. The inclusion of additional physical content, namely a remastered soundtrack CD and a comprehensive booklet, enhances the viewing experience. The holographic slipcase further accentuates the nostalgia and allure associated with this timeless classic.

Extras included in this disc:

• The E.T. Journals: Behind-the-scenes footage shot by John Toll.
• Steven Spielberg & E.T.: Director interviews and reflections.
• The Music of E.T.: A Discussion with John Williams: Conversations on the score development.
• Designs, Photographs and Marketing of E.T: Art galleries and stills.
• Marketing E.T. A Look Back: Insider interviews on the film's creation.
• The E.T. Reunion: Cast and filmmaker reunion discussion.
• The 20th Anniversary Premiere: Documentary on live score performance at reissue premiere.
• Deleted Scenes: Collection of cut scenes.
• Theatrical Trailer: Original movie preview.

Steven Spielberg's "E.T. The Extra-Terrestrial" remains an enduring classic that captivates audiences through its touching narrative and masterful cinematography. With this 4K UHD Blu-ray release, viewers are treated to a stunning 2160p/HDR-enhanced visual presentation that revitalizes the film's beloved aesthetic. The colorful cinematography by Allen Daviau and Spielberg's inventive use of the camera create an emotional tableau that enhances the viewer's experience, immersing them in the story of friendship and adventure. The film's DTS:X soundtrack further elevates the experience, delivering a powerful auditory dimension that complements the visual fidelity. This release includes the original, unedited version of the film, reinstating the original elements such as the firearms in place of walkie-talkies, thus preserving its authenticity.

The narrative, centered around a young boy named Elliott and his connection with an alien visitor, E.T., explores themes of friendship, family, and belonging. Spielberg's talent shines in his depiction of the children's perspective, with adults appearing as faceless authorities until familial relationships and emotional depth come into play. The performances of the young cast, particularly Henry Thomas, Drew Barrymore, and Robert MacNaughton, contribute to the film's poignancy, capturing the innocence and wonderment of youth. Elements like E.T.'s illness parallel deeper themes of emotional bonds and family unity, although some critics note minor narrative ambiguities.

"E.T." has successfully stood the test of time due to its universal message and Spielberg's unique storytelling approach. It evokes a sense of nostalgia while presenting timeless cinematic artistry that appeals to both new viewers and those revisiting the film. The 35th Anniversary Limited Edition offers not only a visual and auditory treat but also enriching supplemental materials and a remastered original soundtrack CD. This edition highlights why "E.T." is cherished as a magical masterpiece that continues to resonate across generations.

Steven Spielberg's "E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial" triumphantly returns in this 4K UHD release, offering a visual and auditory experience that expertly rekindles the magic of its original 1982 debut. The film remains a charming family favorite, portraying themes of friendship and adventure with an emotional depth that crosses generational boundaries. The 4K transfer features a remarkable video presentation, showcasing the beloved film in unprecedented detail and clarity, reminiscent of a theater viewing. The DTS:X soundtrack further enhances the experience, delivering an engaging and occasionally goosebump-inducing auditory journey.

The UHD package is designed with solid, appealing packaging, and while it doesn’t introduce new extras, it retains the cherished supplemental content from the previous Blu-ray edition. Whether one opts for the standard 4K version or the enriched 35th Anniversary Edition with its CD and booklet, both versions promise an immersive viewing experience that merits the attention of new viewers and longtime fans alike. These editions include technical specifications that meet modern cinematic standards while preserving the film's timeless charm.

In conclusion, this 4K UHD release of "E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial" is an essential upgrade for any film collection. Capturing the essence of Spielberg’s sci-fi masterpiece with exceptional video and audio quality, it is a tribute to a cinematic classic that has stood the test of time. Whether purchased for nostalgic reasons or to introduce a new generation to its wonders, this edition offers great value and is highly recommended for its stellar presentation of a truly iconic film.