Universal has confirmed that E.T.: The Extra-Terrestrail will come home on Blu-ray this fall, just in time for the film’s 30th anniversary. The disk will offer the original version of the film, and not the much-maligned 2002 release that had all the guns digitally removed from the climax. It also featured CGI enhancements to the loveable extra-terrestrial, and a few extra scenes. It remains to seen if the 2002 version will also be included on the Blu-ray.
A precise launch date for E.T. has not been given, but according to the trailer above, the set will offer hours of bonus content along with a newly-remastered print and 7.1 surround sound.
UPDATE: Universal has provided a list of bonus content that will be included in the set, and confirmed that the 2002 version will not be present. You will be able to watch two extra scenes from that version in the Deleted Scenes section of the disk.
-The E.T. Journals: In this all-new bonus feature, retrace the day-to-day experience of creating E.T from never-before-seen, behind-the-scenes footage shot by Academy Award®- winning cinematographer John Toll. This piece will give viewers a unique feeling of being on the set and living the excitement of what it was like to make E.T.
-Steven Spielberg & E.T.: Watch an all-new interview with Steven Spielberg, as he reflects back on the film and discusses his experience working with the actors, as well as his overall and current perspective on E.T.
-Deleted Scenes: Two scenes from 2002 version of the film.
-A Look Back: A special insider’s look into the making of E.T. featuring interviews with Steven Spielberg, the cast, and others intimately involved with the film.
-The E.T. Reunion: The cast and filmmaker reunite to discuss their thoughts on the impact of the film.
-The Evolution and Creation of E.T.: From idea to screenplay, through casting and making the film.
-The Music of E.T.: A Discussion with John Williams: Interviews and footage focused on the long-standing relationship between John Williams and Steven Spielberg.
-The 20th Anniversary Premiere: Composer John Williams played the score of E.T. live at the Shrine Auditorium for the re-release premiere of E.T. This featurette gives us a behind the scenes look at this presentation.
-Original Theatrical Trailer
-Special Olympics TV spot
-Designs, Photographs and Marketing
o E.T. Designs by Production Illustrator Ed Verreaux o E.T. Designs by Carlo Rambaldi
o Spaceship Designs by Ralph McQuarrie
o Designs by Production Illustrator Ed Verreaux
o Production Photographs
o Marketing E.T.
