E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial

(Steven Spielberg, US 1982, 115 min., 35mm)

National Parks | Dryden Kids. Bookended by stunning sequences in Redwood National and State Parks, the simple fable of a young boy bonding with a homesick alien touched the hearts of millions. Cementing Spielberg’s legacy as one of the great populist American directors, E.T. captures the essence of childlike wonder and unconditional friendship—helped in no small part from the choice to shoot almost entirely from the perspectives of the children and their alien companion. The highest-grossing film of all time upon its original release, E.T. has endured as an American classic for kids and adults alike. Free for ages 17 and under.