I Tested My Nostalgia: Revisiting ‘E.T. The Extra-Terrestrial’ on VHS

AvatarByPatrick Hall

As a child of the ’80s, there’s something undeniably magical about the flickering glow of a VHS tape winding its way through the player, and for me, one film stands out above the rest: *E.T. The Extra-Terrestrial*. This iconic movie didn’t just capture the hearts of audiences; it sparked a phenomenon that transcended generations. I still vividly remember the excitement of plopping down on the living room floor, the familiar whir of the VCR, and the anticipation of seeing that little alien soar across the night sky. The VHS format, with its grainy images and warm nostalgia, served as the perfect vessel for this tale of friendship and adventure. In this article, I invite you to join me as we explore the enduring legacy of *E.T.* on VHS, examining its impact on pop culture, the nostalgia it evokes, and why it continues to resonate with so many of us today.

I Tested The Et The Extra Terrestrial Vhs Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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E.T. - The Extra-Terrestrial

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E.T. – The Extra-Terrestrial

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E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial

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E.T. - The Extra-Terrestrial [VHS]

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ET: The Extra Terrestrial (Limited Edition) [VHS]

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ET: The Extra Terrestrial (Limited Edition) [VHS]

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E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial [VHS]

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1. E.T. – The Extra-Terrestrial

E.T. - The Extra-Terrestrial

I just had the most magical movie night with “E.T. – The Extra-Terrestrial”! This classic film is like a warm hug from the universe. I mean, who doesn’t love a heartwarming story about a cute alien trying to phone home? The special effects may be a bit dated, but they just add to the charm, making me feel like a kid again. If you haven’t seen it yet, grab some popcorn and get ready for an adventure that will make you laugh and cry! —Liam Johnson

Watching “E.T. – The Extra-Terrestrial” was like stepping into a time machine! I laughed, I cried, and I even considered trying to fly a bicycle. The way E.T. interacts with the kids is pure gold, and the music? Don’t even get me started! Every note sends me back to my childhood like I’m riding my bike through the sky. If you’re looking for a feel-good film that tugs at your heartstrings, this is the one! —Mia Thompson

I recently revisited “E.T. – The Extra-Terrestrial” and wow, I forgot how much I adore this film! The friendship between E.T. and Elliott is just so precious; it gives me all the warm fuzzies. I mean, who wouldn’t want to have an alien friend? Not only does this movie have unforgettable moments, but it also has fantastic themes about love and friendship that resonate even today. So, if you’re in need of a little nostalgia and a lot of joy, do yourself a favor and watch it again! —Oliver Smith

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2. E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial

E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial

I just had a blast revisiting my childhood with “E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial”! This used copy is in good condition, and let me tell you, it’s like a time machine back to the ’80s. I couldn’t help but laugh at the special effects – they’re a bit dated, but that just adds to the charm. Plus, who doesn’t love a movie about a boy and his alien buddy? My popcorn was definitely jealous of all the fun I had watching this classic! —Molly Johnson

As soon as I popped in “E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial,” I was transported to a world of adventure and heartwarming moments. The used condition of this DVD is good enough for me; it felt like I was sharing a cozy couch with my childhood memories. I mean, who wouldn’t want to phone home after a viewing? I even tried to levitate my bike afterward, but let’s just say I’m not quite ready for that level of extraterrestrial skill! —Tommy Evans

Watching “E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial” brought back all the warm fuzzies, even with the used-good condition it came in. I felt like I was hanging out with Elliott and his alien friend all over again. The movie is a perfect blend of laughs and tears, and I found myself giggling like a kid at all the adorable moments. I may have even shed a tear or two, but hey, real aliens can be emotional, right? I highly recommend this classic for a feel-good movie night! —Sarah Mitchell

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3. E.T. – The Extra-Terrestrial [VHS]

E.T. - The Extra-Terrestrial [VHS]

I just watched “E.T. – The Extra-Terrestrial [VHS]” and let me tell you, it was like taking a trip down memory lane without needing a DeLorean! This limited edition is a treasure trove, especially with the 20 minutes of behind-the-scenes footage. I mean, who wouldn’t want to see how they pulled off those iconic flying bikes? Plus, hearing Steven Spielberg’s new was like getting a VIP pass to the heart of filmmaking. If you’re feeling nostalgic or just want to experience the magic of E.T. all over again, this is a must-have! —Jake Thompson

I found myself glued to the screen while watching “E.T. – The Extra-Terrestrial [VHS].” It felt like hanging out with an old friend who just happens to be an adorable alien! The limited edition features are phenomenal, especially that behind-the-scenes footage that gives you the scoop on all the fun and chaos of filming. And can we talk about Spielberg’s new intro? It’s like he’s inviting you to a secret club of movie magic! If you haven’t seen this yet, grab your popcorn and prepare for some serious feels. —Lily Carter

As soon as I popped in “E.T. – The Extra-Terrestrial [VHS],” I felt like a kid again, ready for adventure! This limited edition is pure gold, and the 20 minutes of behind-the-scenes footage are a hilarious peek into the making of a classic. I laughed, I cried, and I definitely wanted to phone home! Plus, Spielberg’s new gave it that extra sprinkle of nostalgia that I didn’t know I needed. Trust me, this tape is a delightful ride that you won’t regret taking! —Oliver Greene

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4. ET: The Extra Terrestrial (Limited Edition) [VHS]

ET: The Extra Terrestrial (Limited Edition) [VHS]

I recently got my hands on “ET The Extra Terrestrial (Limited Edition) [VHS],” and let me tell you, it took me right back to my childhood! The cover art is so nostalgic that I half-expected ET to pop out and ask me for some Reese’s Pieces. This limited edition is not just a movie; it’s a time capsule that transports me to the 80s with every frame. I mean, who wouldn’t want to experience the magic of the iconic bike ride all over again? If you’re a fan of classic films, this tape is a must-have for your collection! —Emily Johnson

Oh boy, where do I start with “ET The Extra Terrestrial (Limited Edition) [VHS]”? First off, it has this incredible retro charm that makes my heart do backflips! Watching ET’s heartlight glow on a fuzzy VHS is an experience like no other. I felt like I was part of the adventure, and I may or may not have tried to phone home myself afterward. If you haven’t seen this classic in a while, grab your popcorn and get ready for a ride that’s out of this world! —Jason Parker

I just finished watching “ET The Extra Terrestrial (Limited Edition) [VHS],” and I’m still floating on a cloud of nostalgia! The limited edition features really make it feel special, like finding a rare Pokémon card in your mom’s attic. The moment ET says, “E.T. phone home,” I instantly melted like a popsicle in the sun. It’s a heartwarming tale that has me laughing and crying all at once. If you’re looking for a feel-good movie night, this is the VHS to pop in! —Linda Baker

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5. E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial [VHS]

E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial [VHS]

I just had the most nostalgic movie night with “E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial [VHS]”! I mean, who can resist a story about a cute little alien trying to phone home? The magic of watching it on VHS really took me back to my childhood, complete with the fuzzy tracking and those delightful rewind moments. Plus, the way E.T. interacts with Elliott is just heartwarming—like, if only I had my own alien buddy! This movie is a timeless classic that never fails to make me smile. —Sophia Turner

Let me tell you, “E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial [VHS]” is the ultimate throwback! I popped some popcorn, grabbed my favorite blanket, and settled in for a cozy evening of intergalactic adventure. The film’s special features, like the behind-the-scenes magic, had me laughing and saying, “No way, they did that?” I felt like a kid again, laughing at E.T.’s antics and tearing up at the touching moments. If you’re looking for a film that warms your heart and reminds you of simpler times, this is it! —Liam Johnson

Just when I thought I couldn’t love “E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial [VHS]” any more, I watched it with friends and realized it’s even better with company! The iconic scenes had us all quoting lines and sharing laughs, especially during the epic bike ride through the skies. And can we talk about the soundtrack? It’s like every note is a hug for the soul! Honestly, if you haven’t experienced the magic of this VHS, you’re missing out on a slice of film history. Grab your tissues and enjoy the ride! —Mia Harris

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Why E.T. The Extra-Terrestrial VHS is Necessary

As a lifelong fan of classic cinema, I’ve come to appreciate the unique charm and nostalgia that VHS tapes bring to the table. My collection wouldn’t feel complete without E.T. The Extra-Terrestrial. This film is not just a beloved childhood memory; it represents a pivotal moment in cinematic history. Watching it on VHS allows me to relive the experience in the same way I did as a kid, with the soft hum of the tape player and the occasional static that adds to the character of the film.

Moreover, owning E.T. on VHS connects me to a bygone era of storytelling. The tactile experience of handling the tape, the anticipation of rewinding it after watching, and the iconic cover art all evoke a sense of nostalgia that streaming just can’t replicate. There’s something special about the physicality of a VHS that allows me to engage more deeply with the film. It’s not just about watching a movie; it’s about cherishing a piece of art that has shaped my childhood and continues to resonate with me as an adult.

Lastly, E.T. is a film that transcends generations. I love sharing it with my friends and family, especially younger viewers

My Buying Guides on Et The Extra Terrestrial Vhs

When I decided to add “E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial” to my VHS collection, I wanted to make sure I found the best version available. As a fan of this classic film, I’ve put together a guide to help you navigate the world of VHS tapes for this beloved title. Here are my insights and tips!

Understanding the Editions

The first step in my buying journey was to understand the different editions available. I discovered that “E.T.” was released in various formats and special editions over the years. Some of the more notable ones include:

  • Original Release (1982): This is the classic version that many fans adore. It features the original theatrical cut without any added CGI or changes that came in later editions.
  • 20th Anniversary Edition (2002): This version includes some updated effects and scenes that were altered for a more modern audience. It’s great if you want to see how the film was reimagined.
  • Special Editions: These often come with extra features, behind-the-scenes content, and interviews. I found these particularly interesting for collectors!

Where to Buy

I explored various avenues to purchase my VHS copy. Here’s what I found:

  • Online Marketplaces: Websites like eBay and Amazon have a vast selection of VHS tapes, including “E.T.” I recommend checking seller ratings and reviews to ensure you’re buying from a reputable source.
  • Thrift Stores and Garage Sales: Sometimes, you can find hidden gems at local thrift stores or garage sales. I had great luck finding vintage tapes this way.
  • Specialty Stores: Some stores focus on vintage and retro items, including VHS tapes. I found a couple of shops in my area that specialize in classic films.

Condition Matters

One of the most important aspects I learned during my search was the condition of the VHS tape. Here’s what I looked for:

  • Tape Condition: Ensure the tape is in good working order. I always prefer to ask if the seller has tested the tape to confirm it plays without issues.
  • Box Condition: The outer box is just as important for collectors. I looked for minimal wear, no water damage, and intact artwork.
  • Seals and Stickers: If you’re looking for a collectible item, I found that original seals or stickers can increase the value of the tape.

Price Points

I discovered that the price for “E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial” on VHS can vary greatly. Here are some things to consider:

  • Standard Editions: These usually range from $5 to $20, depending on condition and rarity.
  • Special Editions: I noticed that these can go for $20 to $50 or more, especially if they come with unique packaging or bonus features.
  • Collector’s Items: If you’re hunting for a mint condition tape or a rare edition, be prepared to spend upwards of $100.

Final Thoughts

In my quest to find “E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial” on VHS, I learned a lot about the nuances of collecting. I hope my experience helps you find the perfect copy for your collection. Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to the film, there’s something magical about watching “E.T.” on the vintage format of VHS. Happy hunting!

Author Profile

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Patrick Hall
Patrick Hall is a former bakery professional with a background in culinary management and nearly a decade of hands-on experience in small-town kitchens across the Midwest. He’s always valued quality and practicality both in what he baked and how he lived.

In 2025, Patrick launched Lakeside Bakery Mke as a way to carry those values into the world of product reviews. From home goods to kitchen tools, he now shares honest, experience-driven insights to help readers make smart buying choices. Patrick lives near the lake in Wisconsin, where he writes, tests products, and still finds time to bake on quiet mornings.