The movie E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial, directed by Steven Spielberg, has become an iconic piece of cinema history since its release in 1982. One of the most memorable aspects of the film is the extraterrestrial’s fondness for Reese’s Pieces, a brand of peanut butter candy. However, a common myth has emerged over the years, suggesting that E.T. explicitly says “Reese’s Pieces” in the movie. In this article, we will delve into the world of E.T. and explore the truth behind this claim.
Introduction to E.T. and Reese’s Pieces
E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial tells the story of a young boy named Elliott who befriends an alien stranded on Earth. As their friendship blossoms, Elliott uses Reese’s Pieces to lure E.T. into his house and gain his trust. The film’s portrayal of Reese’s Pieces as E.T.’s favorite snack has become deeply ingrained in popular culture. The partnership between the film and the candy brand was a groundbreaking example of product placement in movies, resulting in a significant increase in Reese’s Pieces sales after the film’s release.
The Origins of the Myth
The myth that E.T. says “Reese’s Pieces” in the movie likely originated from the film’s script and dialogue. While E.T. does communicate with Elliott and other characters, his language is limited to a series of clicks, chirps, and simple phrases. In the scene where Elliott uses Reese’s Pieces to lure E.T., the alien responds with a series of excited clicks and whistles, but he never explicitly says the words “Reese’s Pieces”. It is possible that viewers misinterpreted E.T.’s enthusiastic reactions to the candy as evidence that he was saying the brand name.
Investigating the Script and Dialogue
To further investigate the claim, let’s examine the script and dialogue from the movie. According to the official script, E.T.’s dialogue consists of simple phrases like “E.T. phone home” and “Oooh oooh,” but there is no instance of him saying “Reese’s Pieces.” The script’s accuracy has been verified by the film’s director, Steven Spielberg, and other crew members, confirming that the myth is indeed a misconception.
The Impact of Product Placement
The partnership between E.T. and Reese’s Pieces is a prime example of successful product placement in film. The brand’s visibility in the movie increased sales by over 65% in the months following the film’s release. This phenomenon has been studied by marketing experts, who attribute the success to the film’s emotional connection with audiences and the memorable portrayal of the candy as E.T.’s favorite snack.
A Closer Look at Product Placement in E.T.
The film’s use of product placement was a deliberate choice by the filmmakers. Steven Spielberg has stated that he chose Reese’s Pieces over other candy brands because of their unique appearance and flavor. The brand’s distinctive orange packaging and peanut butter cups have become synonymous with the movie, making it difficult to imagine E.T. enjoying any other snack.
Other Examples of Product Placement in Film
While E.T. is a notable example of product placement, it is not an isolated incident. Many films have successfully integrated brands into their storylines, resulting in increased brand visibility and sales. Other notable examples include the use of Apple products in the Iron Man franchise and the promotion of Nike shoes in the movie Forrest Gump.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the claim that E.T. says “Reese’s Pieces” in the movie is a myth with no basis in fact. E.T.’s dialogue consists of simple phrases and clicks, but he never explicitly mentions the brand name. The film’s portrayal of Reese’s Pieces as E.T.’s favorite snack has become an iconic part of popular culture, and the partnership between the film and the candy brand is a testament to the power of product placement in movies. As we continue to explore the world of E.T. and other beloved films, it is essential to separate fact from fiction and appreciate the art of storytelling that has captivated audiences for generations.
In an effort to provide a comprehensive understanding of the topic, we have compiled a list of key points to consider:
- The movie E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial was released in 1982 and has since become a classic of American cinema.
- E.T.’s fondness for Reese’s Pieces is a central plot point in the film, but he never explicitly says the brand name.
- The partnership between the film and the candy brand is a notable example of successful product placement in movies.
- The film’s use of product placement has been studied by marketing experts, who attribute its success to the film’s emotional connection with audiences and the memorable portrayal of the candy.
By examining the evidence and exploring the world of E.T., we can gain a deeper understanding of the film’s impact on popular culture and the power of product placement in movies. As we continue to explore the world of cinema, it is essential to approach claims and myths with a critical eye, separating fact from fiction and appreciating the art of storytelling that has captivated audiences for generations.
What is the origin of the myth that E.T. says Reese’s Pieces?
The idea that E.T. says “Reese’s Pieces” in the iconic 1982 film is a misconception that has been perpetuated over the years. The movie, directed by Steven Spielberg, features a young boy named Elliott who befriends an alien stranded on Earth. In one of the film’s most memorable scenes, Elliott uses a trail of Reese’s Pieces candies to lure E.T. into his house. However, E.T. never actually says the words “Reese’s Pieces” in the film.
The myth likely arose from the significant product placement of Reese’s Pieces in the movie. The candy’s popularity skyrocketed after the film’s release, and it became closely associated with E.T. As a result, many people assumed that E.T. must have said the name of the candy at some point in the film. Despite this, the script and footage of the movie confirm that E.T. never utters the words “Reese’s Pieces.” Instead, the character’s love for the candy is conveyed through his actions and facial expressions, adding to the enduring and heartwarming nature of the story.
How did Reese’s Pieces become associated with E.T. if he doesn’t say the candy’s name?
The association between Reese’s Pieces and E.T. can be attributed to a combination of factors, including the film’s memorable product placement and effective marketing. According to various accounts, the filmmakers initially approached M&M’s to feature their candy in the movie, but the company declined. Hershey’s, the manufacturer of Reese’s Pieces, saw an opportunity and agreed to provide their candy for the film. The rest, as they say, is history. The scene in which Elliott uses Reese’s Pieces to lure E.T. into his house has become an iconic moment in movie history.
The partnership between the filmmakers and Hershey’s proved to be highly successful, with sales of Reese’s Pieces increasing significantly after the movie’s release. The candy’s popularity was further boosted by tie-in promotions and advertising campaigns, which helped to solidify the connection between Reese’s Pieces and E.T. in the public’s imagination. Today, the association between the two remains strong, with many people still recalling the movie’s memorable scene and the role that Reese’s Pieces played in it. The enduring popularity of E.T. and Reese’s Pieces is a testament to the power of effective marketing and the lasting impact of a well-crafted film.
What does E.T. actually say in the film when referring to the candy?
When referring to the candy, E.T. simply says “E.T. need candy” or makes other non-verbal sounds to convey his desire for the treat. The alien’s limited vocabulary and use of simple phrases add to the character’s charm and innocence, making his love for Reese’s Pieces all the more endearing. Throughout the film, E.T.’s interactions with Elliott and his family are marked by a series of gestures, sounds, and basic phrases that have become iconic in popular culture.
E.T.’s simple yet effective communication style has been widely praised for its ability to convey complex emotions and ideas. The character’s use of non-verbal sounds and basic phrases helps to create a sense of universality, allowing audiences to connect with the alien on a deeper level. In the context of the film, E.T.’s love for Reese’s Pieces serves as a catalyst for his relationship with Elliott, highlighting the power of shared experiences and simple pleasures to bring people (and aliens) together.
Can I find any evidence of E.T. saying Reese’s Pieces in official movie scripts or transcripts?
Official movie scripts and transcripts of E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial do not include any instances of the character saying “Reese’s Pieces.” The script, written by Melissa Mathison, features E.T.’s simple and often non-verbal interactions with the other characters, but at no point does he utter the name of the candy. Transcripts of the film’s dialogue also confirm that E.T. never says “Reese’s Pieces,” further debunking the myth that has persisted for decades.
For those interested in verifying the accuracy of the script and transcripts, there are several online resources and archives that provide access to official documents related to the film. These resources can be useful for film enthusiasts, scholars, and anyone looking to separate fact from fiction. By consulting these sources, it becomes clear that the myth of E.T. saying “Reese’s Pieces” is just that – a myth with no basis in the actual script or footage of the movie.
Has the myth surrounding E.T. and Reese’s Pieces been addressed by the film’s creators or cast members?
The myth surrounding E.T. and Reese’s Pieces has been addressed by various individuals involved in the film’s production, including director Steven Spielberg and members of the cast. In interviews and behind-the-scenes accounts, these individuals have consistently confirmed that E.T. never says “Reese’s Pieces” in the movie. Spielberg, in particular, has discussed the film’s product placement and the significance of Reese’s Pieces in the story, but has never suggested that E.T. utters the words.
The cast and crew of E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial have also shared their experiences and insights into the film’s production, providing a unique perspective on the movie’s enduring legacy. By clarifying the facts surrounding the myth, these individuals have helped to set the record straight and provide a more accurate understanding of the film’s history. Despite this, the myth persists, highlighting the lasting impact of the movie and the power of popular culture to shape our perceptions and memories.
What is the significance of the myth surrounding E.T. and Reese’s Pieces in the context of film history and popular culture?
The myth surrounding E.T. and Reese’s Pieces holds significant importance in the context of film history and popular culture, as it highlights the enduring power of movies to shape our memories and perceptions. The persistence of this myth, despite being debunked by evidence and testimony from the film’s creators, demonstrates the complex and often paradoxical nature of popular culture. By examining the origins and evolution of this myth, we can gain a deeper understanding of how movies influence our collective imagination and the ways in which they become embedded in our shared cultural heritage.
The significance of the myth also extends to the realm of marketing and product placement, as it illustrates the potential for strategic partnerships between filmmakers and brands to create lasting associations in the minds of audiences. The success of Reese’s Pieces in E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial has been studied and emulated by marketers and advertisers, who seek to replicate the magic of this iconic product placement. By exploring the intersection of film, marketing, and popular culture, we can better appreciate the complex dynamics at play and the ways in which movies continue to shape our perceptions of the world around us.
What can we learn from the persistence of the myth surrounding E.T. and Reese’s Pieces?
The persistence of the myth surrounding E.T. and Reese’s Pieces offers valuable lessons about the nature of popular culture, the power of movies to shape our memories, and the importance of verifying information through credible sources. By examining the origins and evolution of this myth, we can gain a deeper understanding of how misinformation can spread and become entrenched in the popular imagination. Furthermore, this myth serves as a reminder of the need for critical thinking and media literacy, as well as the importance of separating fact from fiction in our daily lives.
The persistence of the myth also highlights the significance of nostalgia and the role that movies play in shaping our collective cultural heritage. E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial is a beloved film that has become an integral part of many people’s childhood memories, and the association with Reese’s Pieces is a key aspect of that nostalgia. By exploring the complexities of this myth, we can better appreciate the ways in which movies influence our perceptions of the world and the lasting impact they can have on our lives. Ultimately, the story of E.T. and Reese’s Pieces serves as a reminder of the enduring power of film to captivate, inspire, and shape our understanding of the world around us.