E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial – Music from the Original Soundtrack cover

E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial – Music from the Original Soundtrack

John Williams · 1982

71 min · 18 tracks · contemporary classical music

Orchestral swells and delicate motifs create an emotional landscape that captures the wonder of childhood and extraterrestrial friendship.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • dynamic narrative arc unfolds
  • emotional crescendos and swells
  • wonder-filled childhood nostalgia
  • immersive orchestral storytelling
  • magical themes for reflection

Maybe skip if you want

  • prefer upbeat dance tracks
  • seek immediate gratification

Where this album fits

Career context
When John Williams released this soundtrack in 1982, he was already an established composer known for his work on blockbuster films. This album followed his iconic score for 'Star Wars' and further solidified his reputation in Hollywood, marking a peak in his career where he began to define the sound of modern cinema.
Stylistic neighbors
Ennio Morricone· Howard Shore· James Horner

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

  • 1 Far From Home / E.T. Alone 6:49
  • 2 Bait for E.T. 1:44
  • 3 The Beginning of a Friendship 2:50
  • 4 Toys 3:11
  • 5 "I'm Keeping Him" 2:19
  • 6 E.T.'s Powers 2:42
  • 7 E.T. and Elliott Get Drunk 2:53
  • 8 Frogs 2:10
  • 9 At Home 5:37
  • 10 The Magic of Halloween 2:53
  • 11 Sending the Signal 3:57
  • 12 Searching for E.T. 4:15
  • 13 Invading Elliott's House 2:22
  • 14 E.T. Is Dying 2:17
  • 15 Losing E.T. 2:00
  • 16 E.T. Is Alive! 4:18
  • 17 Escape / Chase / Saying Goodbye 15:04
  • 18 End Credits 3:52

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata