In an age where the majority of cinemas make use of digital projectors and the wonderfully crisp detail of 4k screens, seeing an actual film on film is quickly becoming a rarity. What is even rarer is seeing a film on 70mm film instead of the more standard 35mm film, which you can see at screenings done by Christ’s Films and John’s Picturehouse, unless you see films in IMAX screens. So, it was certainly quite special to be able to see the Steven Spielberg classic that is E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial on 70mm film. If you love E.T. or even if you are not particularly fond of it, the experience of seeing it in its original theatrical form is definitely something pretty amazing to behold, especially in a packed-out theatre with an audience of all ages.

Despite the fact that the film reel used in the projection at the Arts Picturehouse had clearly deteriorated somewhat, with frequent marks appearing across the screen and some scenes seeming a little damaged, this is not unexpected considering the age of the film, and the experience was still immensely enjoyable. The physical reel may be suffering the effects of time, but the film itself still holds up today with its excellent cinematography and some truly beautiful moments. Seeing Elliott and E.T. fly through the forest against the moon to the wonderful soundtrack by John Williams is even more magical when it is on the big screen in stunning high quality with surround sound. Elements of the film have clearly aged, but it is amazing how well it still holds up. It is every bit as good to watch as it must have been when it first launched in theatres.

What was also particularly fascinating about seeing E.T. at the Picturehouse was the audience reaction to what is undoubtedly an important part of cinematic history. The large number of adults clearly enjoyed the chance to relieve a film from their childhood, and the applause as soon as the credits rolled is testament to how beloved this film is by many. The children that were brought along to the screening and were seeing this classic for the first time showed just how much children’s cinema has changed in 30 years. They certainly laughed a lot and evidently enjoyed it, but there was some impatience that resulted in many questions aimed at parents as the film progressed.

Children’s taste in movies and their cinema-going tendencies may have changed, but despite everything, E.T. remains a brilliant experience, especially when seen on a big screen with 70mm film.