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

The 4K UHD Blu-ray release of "E.T. The Extra-Terrestrial" is an outstanding visual presentation, reflecting its original 35mm source, meticulously restored for the current format. Presented at a native 3840 x 2160p resolution with a widescreen 1.85:1 aspect ratio, the disc offers an exceptionally detailed image, enriched by 10-bit video depth, High Dynamic Range (HDR), and Wide Colour Gamut (WCG). The HEVC (H.265) codec complements this setup, ensuring exquisite clarity without compromising the cinematic integrity. Every element, from skin textures to the lush greens of suburban vistas, benefits from enhanced detailing and natural colors, courtesy of WCG and HDR, which maintain true to the film’s intent. This release achieves deep blacks and superb shadow detail balanced with bright highlights, enhancing scenes like nighttime forests without issues of compression or graininess.

Comparing with previous formats, the UHD presentation surpasses the already acclaimed 1080p Blu-ray in terms of richness and sharpness. The improved grain structure authenticates its filmic quality, providing a crisper and more precise visual experience. Colors are deeper and more vivid without distorting the original look of Spielberg’s work. Details stand out sharply, from E.T.'s textured skin to the environmental subtleties within dark and low-light scenes. Despite some modest darkening due to HDR, this upgrade adds dimension and depth, showing off refined hues in E.T.'s trademark elements.

Universal's transfer radiates with pristine quality, free from digital noise or edge enhancement, allowing viewers to appreciate Allen Daviau’s cinematography fully. Dynamic contrasts benefit from HDR implementation, offering an immersive viewing that enhances iconic scenes like E.T.'s silhouette against the moon. This release not only meets but decidedly exceeds expectations for a classic film transitioning into modern home-viewing technology. It's a must-see demonstration of what UHD can achieve, making it an essential upgrade for aficionados of Spielberg's enduring classic.

The 4K UHD Blu-Ray of "E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial" delivers an audio experience remarkable for its utilization of the DTS:X Master Audio track, offering noteworthy spatial dimension to the iconic film's soundstage. This upgrade from the previous Blu-ray's 7.1 lossless soundtrack integrates a subtle yet effective overhead component, enhancing the auditory immersion. The DTS:X track crafts a rich tapestry of atmospheric sounds; from E.T.’s breathing during the nighttime pursuit to the chatter of schoolchildren and bustling home environments, each element is positioned with precise clarity and depth, enveloping the viewer in a surround environment that vibrantly complements the on-screen action. The ambient effects, such as rustling leaves and swooshing objects, fill the space with pinpoint accuracy, providing a distinct and consistent engagement throughout key scenes without altering the core essence of the original sound design.

At its heart lies a stunningly presented rendition of John Williams' legendary score, swelling with unparalleled richness and clarity, and enhanced by an exceptional 3D spatial arrangement that enriches every scene it accompanies. The track achieves superb fidelity, ensuring dialogue remains clear, naturally positioned, and well-prioritized in the front-center channel. The film’s emotional crescendos are adeptly captured, mirroring the visual splendor with an auditory brilliance that is particularly impactful during iconic moments, such as the moonlit bike scene. The addition of the original DTS-HD Master Audio track preserves the choice for audiophiles craving nostalgic authenticity, yet the allure of this modernized mix provides an overwhelmingly superior aural experience that is destined to captivate long-time fans and newcomers alike.

The 4K UHD Blu-ray release of "E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial" includes an extensive assortment of extras, all previously seen on the 2012 and 30th-anniversary Blu-ray editions. This collection offers a comprehensive look into the film's production and legacy but lacks any new content or technical enhancements. The extras provide valuable insights through vintage featurettes and documentaries, particularly "The E.T. Journals," which offers an authentic behind-the-scenes perspective. Despite the absence of updated content, these extras remain a treasured resource for fans and cinephiles alike, offering rich historical context and interviews. The inclusion of iconic pieces like John Williams' music discussion adds depth to the cinematic experience, although some of the material might feel dated due to the quality and age.

Extras included in this disc:

• Deleted Scenes: Four minutes of additional footage.
• Steven Spielberg & E.T.: A 13-minute insight into Spielberg’s perspective.
• The E.T. Journals: Extensive behind-the-scenes documentary.
• A Look Back: Retrospective featurette.
• The Evolution and Creation of E.T.: Historical insights with cast and crew.
• The E.T. Reunion: Cast reunion discussion.
• The Music of E.T.: A Discussion with John Williams: Conversation on the film's iconic music.
• 20th Anniversary Premiere: Live orchestra performance of the film's score.
• Designs, Photographs and Marketing: Image galleries from the film.
• Special Olympics TV Spot
• Theatrical Trailer

The 4K UHD Blu-ray release of "E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial" preserves the enduring magic of Steven Spielberg's beloved classic, enhancing its visual and auditory experience with stunning HDR-enhanced 2160p resolution and a new DTS:X soundtrack. This version rightfully restores the original elements, offering guns instead of walkie-talkies, catering to purists who seek the authenticity of the original film experience. The disc showcases the breathtaking cinematography, captivating visual effects, and John Williams' evocative score, reinforcing its status as a timeless cinematic masterpiece. Spielberg's signature touch is seen in his filming style, capturing scenes from a child's perspective with low camera angles, which enhances the intimate atmosphere and profundity—allowing viewers to connect deeply with the emotions on screen.

One of the film’s greatest strengths is in its storytelling layers, which speak to both children and adults on different levels. At its heart, "E.T." is a tale of empathy and connection, portrayed through the emotional bond between Elliott and E.T., which transcends their differences. Spielberg masterfully weaves themes of acceptance, communication, and compassion throughout the narrative, as evidenced by Elliott's openness toward the alien and their poignant emotional synergy. This profound connection becomes a moving representation of love and understanding, inviting viewers to reflect on their perceptions of the world around them.

Simultaneously, "E.T." subverts traditional alien narratives, presenting E.T. not as a threat but as a benevolent creature seeking companionship and a way home. Set against a backdrop of Cold War fears and anti-government sentiment, it emerges as a parable of acceptance and understanding from the pure perspective of childhood innocence. The film's artistic richness and Spielberg’s directorial prowess ensure that it continues to resonate emotionally and culturally across generations, making this UHD release a fitting tribute to the film's enduring legacy.

The 4K UHD Blu-Ray release of "E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial" presents itself as a definitive package for both new viewers and lifelong fans of Steven Spielberg's cherished masterpiece. The native 4K image boasts a remarkable level of detail, enhanced coloration, and deep black levels that serve to elevate the film's already vibrant visual storytelling. The DTS:X audio track, though not a complete overhaul, introduces immersive 3D effects and subtle layering which heighten the movie’s emotive sound design, solidifying its place in the forefront of home entertainment experiences.

However, while the technical improvements are significant, some might question the necessity of this upgrade, particularly if they already own a high-quality Blu-ray version. Despite this, the UHD offers a noticeable refinement and texture improvement over previous releases, adding a filmic quality that aligns with the highest standards of cinematic presentation. The audio engineering adds depth to the soundscape without overstepping into unnecessary alterations. Unfortunately, the extras package does not introduce any new content beyond what has been seen before, which might be a slight letdown for collectors seeking fresh insights.

Conclusively, this 4K UHD release is indispensable for admirers of cinema and those wishing to experience E.T.'s heartwarming narrative in unparalleled quality. The film remains as culturally significant today as it was at its debut, reaffirming Spielberg's prestige as a foremost director. Universal's release ensures that "E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial" continues to enchant viewers with its vivid portrayal and emotionally resonant score, making it a necessary addition to any discerning cinephile’s collection.