When was et filmed

Overview

Steven Spielberg's iconic science fiction film E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial, released in 1982, became one of the most beloved movies of all time. While its release date is widely known, the filming period is less commonly discussed but equally significant in understanding its production.

The movie was shot over a tightly scheduled production window, reflecting the efficiency and vision of its director. Despite budget constraints and tight timelines, the production team managed to create a timeless cinematic experience that resonated across generations.

• Principal photography began in September 1981, with filming taking place primarily in the suburban areas of Los Angeles, including Tujunga and Granada Hills.
• The shoot lasted approximately three months, concluding in December 1981, which was a relatively short timeframe for a film of its eventual scale and impact.
• Director Steven Spielberg chose to film out of order, prioritizing scenes with young actor Drew Barrymore to accommodate her school schedule and child labor laws.
• The famous forest scenes were filmed in the Julian, California area, using the dense pine forests to simulate a secluded, mysterious environment.
• Due to budget concerns, Spielberg used practical effects and minimal CGI, relying on Carlo Rambaldi’s animatronics to bring E.T. to life in a believable way.

How It Works

The production of E.T. relied on innovative techniques and tight coordination between departments to achieve its emotional depth and visual authenticity.

• Practical Effects: The E.T. puppet was operated by as many as 10 technicians simultaneously, allowing for nuanced facial expressions and movement that felt lifelike and expressive.
• Child-Centric Scheduling: Because the lead roles were played by children, filming adhered to strict child labor laws, limiting workdays to no more than five hours with mandatory breaks and tutoring.
• Camera Techniques: Spielberg used low-angle shots to simulate the perspective of a child, enhancing the audience’s emotional connection to the young characters throughout the film.
• Sound Design: The iconic "flying" bicycle scene was enhanced with layered audio effects, including wind, bicycle chains, and subtle musical cues to heighten suspense.
• Set Construction: The Elliott family home was built on Stage 18 at Universal Studios, designed with removable walls to allow for dynamic camera movement and lighting setups.
• Alien Voice: E.T.’s voice was created by combining sounds from humans, raccoons, and horses, processed and layered by sound designer Ben Burtt to form a unique, otherworldly tone.

Comparison at a Glance

A comparison of E.T.’s production timeline and budget against similar-era films highlights its efficiency and cultural impact.

E.T. stands out for achieving the highest box office return of any 1982 film despite one of the shortest production schedules and a modest budget. Its efficient filming process and emotional storytelling contributed to its record-breaking success, outperforming far more expensive productions.

Why It Matters

The filming dates and production choices of E.T. had lasting implications on both filmmaking practices and popular culture.

• The September–December 1981 shoot demonstrated that emotionally powerful films could be made quickly without sacrificing quality or artistic vision.
• Spielberg’s use of child actors and authentic performances influenced a generation of filmmakers to prioritize genuine emotion over spectacle.
• The film’s success helped redefine summer blockbusters, proving that family-friendly stories could dominate the box office.
• Its practical effects legacy inspired later directors, including Guillermo del Toro and J.J. Abrams, to blend physical models with digital enhancements.
• E.T.’s production model showed studios that lower budgets could yield massive returns when paired with strong storytelling and direction.
• The film’s enduring popularity has led to re-releases, academic study, and preservation in the National Film Registry in 2001.

Ultimately, the timing and execution of E.T.’s filming played a crucial role in shaping modern cinema, proving that heart and creativity can surpass technical extravagance.