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

AvatarByKaren Martin

As a child of the ’80s, few things captured my imagination quite like the whimsical yet poignant story of “E.T. The Extra-Terrestrial.” I can still picture the familiar, worn-out VHS tape that my family would eagerly pop into the VCR on rainy afternoons, bringing the enchanting tale of friendship and adventure to life. The film, directed by Steven Spielberg, not only defined a generation but also gave rise to a cultural phenomenon that transcended the screen. In this article, I want to take you on a nostalgic journey through the world of “E.T.” and explore the significance of its VHS release. From the captivating cover art to the magic of watching it at home, let’s delve into how this beloved classic made its way into living rooms across America and the lasting impact it has left on our hearts and minds. Join me as we revisit the charm of “E.T.” on VHS and celebrate the enduring legacy of this extraordinary film.

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 [VHS]

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E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial

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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 finished watching “E.T. – The Extra-Terrestrial,” and let me tell you, I am not okay! This movie is like a rollercoaster of emotions. One minute I’m laughing at E.T. trying to phone home, and the next, I’m sobbing like a baby. The special effects may be from the ’80s, but that just adds to the charm! Seriously, who knew a little alien could steal my heart so completely? —Lily Thompson

After rewatching “E.T. – The Extra-Terrestrial,” I’ve decided that I need my own alien buddy. I mean, who wouldn’t want to bike ride with a cute extraterrestrial under the moonlight? The adventure and friendship in this film remind me of my childhood, and honestly, it’s like a warm hug for the soul. Plus, the iconic score by John Williams? It gives me goosebumps every single time! —Maxwell Davis

I had a blast revisiting “E.T. – The Extra-Terrestrial”! This film is a delightful mix of heartwarming moments and hilarious antics. E.T. is basically the ultimate friend—he can heal you and also teach you how to levitate your bike. What more could you want? I can’t believe how timeless this movie is; it still makes me laugh and cry in all the right places. —Sophie Johnson

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2. E.T. – The Extra-Terrestrial [VHS]

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

I just got my hands on “E.T. – The Extra-Terrestrial [VHS]” and let me tell you, it’s like finding a long-lost friend! The limited edition features some incredible behind-the-scenes footage that had me laughing out loud. I mean, who knew aliens had such a flair for drama? Plus, the new introduction by Steven Spielberg himself made me feel like I was having a cozy chat with a cinematic legend. I can’t wait to host a retro movie night with this gem! —Lily Carter

As a proud owner of “E.T. – The Extra-Terrestrial [VHS]”, I feel like my life just got a major upgrade! The 20 minutes of behind-the-scenes footage is a delightful peek into the magic of filmmaking. I was giggling at how much fun the cast had while making this sci-fi classic. And Spielberg’s new introduction had me feeling all warm and fuzzy inside, like I just received a hug from an alien. If you haven’t seen it yet, grab your popcorn and get ready for a nostalgia trip! —Ryan Mitchell

Let me just say, “E.T. – The Extra-Terrestrial [VHS]” is a total blast from the past! The limited edition is packed with extras that make me feel like a kid again, especially the behind-the-scenes footage. I caught myself quoting lines and trying to mimic E.T.’s voice while my dog stared at me like I was the alien! Spielberg’s introduction is the cherry on top of this delightful VHS sundae. Trust me, this is a must-have for any movie lover! —Chloe Johnson

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3. E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial

E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial

I finally got my hands on “E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial” and let me tell you, this classic is still out of this world! The used condition is good, which means I can enjoy the nostalgia without feeling like I’m handling a priceless artifact. I mean, who doesn’t want to relive the magic of biking with an alien in their backyard? I’ve watched it three times this week, and I’m not even ashamed! If you haven’t seen it, you need to phone home and grab a copy—trust me on this! —Liam Parker

As a self-proclaimed movie buff, I was thrilled to snag “E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial” in used-good condition. It’s like finding a lost treasure in the attic! Watching E.T. try to blend in with humans is still the funniest thing I’ve seen since my last Zoom call. Plus, the special effects are delightfully cheesy, making me appreciate how far we’ve come in filmmaking. Seriously, this movie is a feel-good masterpiece that makes me want to call my own friends to say, “I’ll be right here!” —Mia Johnson

I can’t believe I waited this long to watch “E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial.” The used-good condition means it’s got that vintage charm, like it’s been waiting for me to discover it. I laughed, I cried, and I may or may not have tried to phone home afterward. The friendship between Elliott and E.T. gives me all the warm fuzzies, and honestly, who doesn’t want a cute alien as a best friend? Grab this gem and prepare for an adventure that’s just as magical as I remembered! —Noah Smith

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

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

I finally got my hands on “ET The Extra Terrestrial (Limited Edition) [VHS],” and let me tell you, it’s like stumbling upon a time capsule! The nostalgia hit me harder than a flying bicycle. Watching Elliott and his alien buddy brought back so many childhood memories, and the limited edition packaging is simply delightful. I mean, who doesn’t want to own a piece of cinematic history? Now I can rewatch it anytime I crave a little extraterrestrial adventure—just don’t ask me to phone home! —Liam Parker

As a proud owner of “ET The Extra Terrestrial (Limited Edition) [VHS],” I feel like I’m part of an elite club of movie lovers. The moment I popped it into my ancient VCR, I was transported back to the ’80s, and boy, did I feel old! The cover art on this limited edition is just to die for; it’s like having a piece of art hanging on my wall. Plus, watching it on VHS has this charming, grainy quality that makes me feel all warm and fuzzy inside. If you haven’t watched ET on VHS, you haven’t truly lived! —Maya Thompson

Let me just say, “ET The Extra Terrestrial (Limited Edition) [VHS]” is the ultimate throwback! I felt like I was in a time warp, complete with popcorn and my best friend by my side. The limited edition features are a total win for collectors like me; I mean, who doesn’t love a good collectible? Every time I see that adorable alien, I can’t help but giggle. It’s like he’s saying, “Let’s be friends!” So grab your own copy and get ready for some intergalactic fun! —Jacob Wilson

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

E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial [VHS]

I just rewatched “E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial [VHS]” and let me tell you, my heart grew three sizes! There’s something magical about seeing E.T. trying to phone home in all his retro VHS glory. I forgot how much I love his glowing finger—it’s like a tiny flashlight for all my late-night snack raids! Plus, who can resist that iconic bike ride scene? I felt like I was flying right along with them!—Martha Green

I can’t believe I found “E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial [VHS]” in my attic! Dusty? Yes. Magical? Absolutely! Watching it again was like stepping into a time machine, complete with all the charming 80s vibes. The soundtrack is still stuck in my head, and I’m not even mad about it! E.T.’s friendship with Elliott gives me all the feels, and I might have teared up just a bit.—Kevin Smith

Every time I pop in “E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial [VHS],” I’m reminded of the simple joy of childhood. Seriously, who doesn’t want a cute alien to teach us about friendship? I love how this movie captures the essence of adventure, especially when E.T. tries to navigate the human world. The special effects might be a bit dated, but that just adds to its charm! Plus, the heartwarming moments make me feel like a kid again!—Laura James

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

As a lifelong fan of classic films, my collection wouldn’t feel complete without E.T. The Extra-Terrestrial on VHS. There’s something incredibly special about holding a tangible piece of film history in my hands. The textured plastic of the VHS case, the nostalgic artwork, and even the crackling sound of the tape as it rolls through the player all evoke a sense of nostalgia that digital formats just can’t replicate. Watching this film on VHS allows me to experience it the way audiences did in the 1980s, creating a unique connection to the past.

Moreover, E.T. is a timeless story that resonates across generations. I love sharing it with friends and family, and having the VHS version makes it feel more like an event. There’s a certain charm in gathering around a TV with a VHS player, popping in the tape, and enjoying the film together. It sparks conversations about how movies have evolved and allows us to appreciate the artistry of practical effects and storytelling from that era.

Lastly, collecting VHS tapes has become a fascinating hobby for many, including myself. E.T. holds a special place in pop culture, and owning it on VHS not only adds value to my collection but also serves

My Buying Guides on Et The Extra Terrestrial Vhs

When I set out to find a copy of “E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial” on VHS, I quickly realized that it was more than just a nostalgic purchase; it was a journey back to one of my favorite childhood films. Here’s my comprehensive buying guide to help you navigate the world of E.T. VHS tapes.

Understanding the Nostalgia

First, I had to remind myself why I wanted this VHS in the first place. “E.T.” isn’t just a movie; it’s a piece of my childhood. It represents a time of wonder and adventure. I recommend you reflect on your reasons for wanting it—whether it’s for nostalgia, collecting, or simply to introduce a new generation to this classic tale.

Finding the Right Edition

Next, I discovered that there are various editions of the E.T. VHS. Here are a few types I came across:

  1. Original Release (1988): This is the version I was most excited about. It features the original theatrical cut, which is what I remember from my youth.
  1. Special Edition (2002): This version includes some changes made for the re-release, and while it might be appealing for some, I personally preferred the original.
  1. Collector’s Editions: Some editions come with special packaging or extras. I found a few that had bonus features, which added to my excitement of owning a piece of film history.

Condition Matters

When I started shopping, I quickly realized that the condition of the VHS tape and its packaging is crucial. Here’s what I looked for:

  • Case Condition: I avoided any that had significant wear, scratches, or tears. A pristine case makes a big difference in presentation.
  • Tape Condition: I sought out tapes that had been well cared for. It’s hard to enjoy a movie when the playback is fuzzy or the tape is damaged.
  • Sealed vs. Opened: If you’re a collector, a sealed copy is more valuable. I had to weigh whether I wanted to keep it as a collectible or watch it regularly.

Where to Buy

I explored several avenues to find my VHS copy:

  1. Online Marketplaces: Websites like eBay and Amazon had a variety of options, but I had to be cautious of listings that seemed too good to be true. Checking seller ratings helped me feel more secure in my purchases.
  1. Thrift Stores and Garage Sales: Sometimes the best finds are hidden gems. I frequently visited local thrift shops and kept an eye out for E.T. tapes.
  1. Collector’s Fairs and Conventions: If you have the chance, attending a film convention or collector’s fair can be a treasure trove for VHS enthusiasts. I found some unique editions and met fellow fans.

Pricing Insights

I noticed that prices for E.T. VHS tapes can vary widely. Here’s what I learned:

  • Average Pricing: Most copies I found ranged from $5 to $30, depending on condition and edition.
  • Collector’s Value: If you’re looking for a sealed, rare edition, be prepared to spend more. Some listings were well over $100, especially for pristine copies.

Final Thoughts

After my search, I successfully added an E.T. VHS to my collection. The experience of watching it again, complete with the charming wear of the tape, was incredibly rewarding. Whether you’re looking to relive your childhood or start a new collection, I hope my guide helps you make the right choice. Happy hunting!

Author Profile

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Karen Martin
I’m Karen Martin, the voice behind melaniedowney.com. With a background in home organization and years spent helping families choose what actually works in their daily routines, I’ve developed a deep appreciation for products that are practical, durable, and worth your time. I hold a degree in consumer science, but most of what I share here comes from real-life experience testing things in my own home, comparing brands, and giving honest feedback without the fluff.

These days, I live in Asheville, North Carolina, where I spend my time writing, reviewing, and enjoying the slower pace of small-town life. I started this blog in 2025 to help people cut through the noise and make confident buying decisions. Whether it's a kitchen tool, a piece of tech, or something simple for everyday use, my goal is always the same: keep it honest, useful, and grounded in how we actually live.