Steven Spielberg's E.T.: A Detailed Examination of the Hero's Journey

Steven Spielberg's 1982 film, E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial, is a masterclass in storytelling, drawing inspiration from the profound narrative structure as articulated by mythologist Joseph Campbell in his influential book, The Hero with a Thousand Faces. By breaking down the intricate journey of protagonist Elliott, the film exemplifies the twelve stages of the Hero's Journey, providing a rich tapestry of narrative arcs that engage and captivate audiences. In this detailed analysis, we will explore how E.T. follows this storied structure, from its ordinary world to the hero’s final departure.

The Ordinary World

In the beginning of the film, we are introduced to young Elliott and his life in the suburban setting of Chicago. Elliott is a child of recent divorce, living with his mother, his older brother Michael, and his sister Gertie. His life is ordinary and unremarkable, marked by the absence of attention and the looming shadow of a family conflict. This setting serves as the ordinary world, a place where the hero’s journey is about to begin. Elliott’s boredom and loneliness make the call to adventure all the more compelling.

The Call to Adventure

A pivotal moment occurs when Elliott, while venturing out in the dark to retrieve pizza for a Dungeons and Dragons game, hears strange noises coming from the backyard. The encounter with what seems to be an extraterrestrial being sets off the chain of events that will transform his life. When Elliott hears the noise and throws a baseball into the shed to investigate, this action embodies the call to adventure, pushing him towards something unknown and extraordinary.

The Refusal of the Call

Despite the initial call, Elliott’s response is hesitant and fearful. When E.T. reappears the next night, Elliott’s refusal is subtly evident. His fear is so overwhelming that he can’t muster the courage to reach out to his mother. This hesitation is a critical stage, as it highlights the challenging nature of the journey ahead and the internal struggle the hero must overcome. The refusal also serves to build tension and drama, keeping the audience engaged as Elliott grapples with his fear and the opportunity to embark on a new adventure.

The Meeting with the Mentor

Elliott eventually overcomes his fear and begins to develop a relationship with E.T. This relationship serves as the mentor to Elliott, with E.T. teaching him valuable lessons about friendship, communication, and the importance of familial ties. E.T.’s presence in Elliott’s life transforms his ordinary world, opening up new possibilities and challenges.

Crossing the Threshold

When Elliott decides to help E.T. across the threshold into the woods, the stage is set for a more significant journey. This is the moment where Elliott leaves his ordinary world and enters the adventure proper. The symbolic act of leaving for the woods represents a significant change in Elliott’s life, as he confronts the unknown and embarks on a journey that will test his strength and character.

Tests, Allies, and Enemies

The subsequent chapters of the adventure test Elliott’s resolve and character. He must navigate challenges such as introducing E.T. to his family, facing threats from the government agents, and caring for E.T. as he gets sick. These tests reveal Elliott’s true strengths and resilience, particularly when he demonstrates his unwavering commitment to E.T.’s well-being despite the risks and challenges. His introduction of E.T. to his big brother and little sister also highlights his growing confidence and ability to handle complex situations.

The Approach

When Elliott and his friends devise a plan to help E.T. make contact with his friends on Earth, they face a series of setbacks. Elliott falls asleep in the woods, and when he wakes up, E.T. is gone. This moment of despair and frustration serves to build the tension and drama of the story. However, it also sets the stage for the ultimate approach, where Elliott and his friends must face their final test and overcome the obstacles that stand in the way of E.T.’s safe return to his home planet.

The Ordeal

The government agents’ intrusion represents the ordeal, a moment of high tension and conflict. Elliott and E.T. find themselves quarantined and fighting for their lives. E.T. suddenly dies, freeing Elliott from their connection and leaving him to mourn his loss. This ordeal tests Elliott’s resolve and forces him to confront the reality of E.T.’s departure, demonstrating the depth of his emotional connection and the pain of losing a mentor and friend.

The Reward

Despite the ordeal, Elliott is offered a chance to say goodbye to E.T. as the flowers connected to him begin to bloom again. This surprise reward symbolizes the strength and resilience of the human spirit, showing that even in the darkest moments, there is always hope. Elliott must then navigate the situation carefully, pretending that E.T. is still dead to avoid detection by the authorities. This clever subterfuge highlights Elliott’s resourcefulness and strategic thinking.

The Road Back

The plan to get E.T. to safety in the woods sets in motion the road back. Elliott and his friends enlist the help of his brother’s friends, meticulously planning their escape. The thrilling chase scene and the iconic moment where E.T. uses his powers to lift them to safety are climactic moments that consolidate the team’s efforts. These actions demonstrate Elliott’s transformation from a hesitant and fearful character into a resilient and confident leader.

The Resurrection and The Return

The climax of the film is the ultimate test of Elliott’s character. When E.T. resuscitates and says his goodbyes to his friends, the adventure reaches its zenith. Elliott plays a crucial role in this final act, demonstrating his leadership and bravery. The iconic scene of E.T. entering his ship and venturing off into space marks the return to the ordinary world, but not in the same way. Elliott and his family are forever changed by their extraordinary experience, united through the impossible tale of a visitor from the stars.

Conclusion

Steven Spielberg’s E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial is a quintessential example of the Hero's Journey, adapted masterfully to a children’s audience while maintaining profound thematic depth. From the ordinary world to the hero’s final departure, the film navigates the twelve stages with remarkable skill, engaging and inspiring viewers of all ages. The narrative arc of Elliott’s journey is not only a celebration of the power of imagination and friendship but also a poignant exploration of the challenges of growing up and overcoming adversity.

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