Response #1

When speaking about the script "A Boy's Life", I was very impressed. Before even realizing that this was in fact the script from E.T., I was still very much moved by the script. The way in which the writer wrote the script as being more narrative, rather than standard point-by-point instruction of the movie was refreshing. There was also great detail to every one of the scenes, characters, and situations. With having it set up that way, it helped a lot for one to see the type of movie that would be made, the amount of money it would cost, and the type of actors they would need. The script flowed very easily, and without much difficulty as well. It was almost as if I was reading a novel, rather than reading a script. This kept you into the work from beginning to end. The thing that stood out to me the most was it use of description. The way, in which they described every little detail, of ever room, ever objects, and everything in between really helped one visualize what was going on. Also the main scene that connected a lot was the scene in which the mother in reading the story of Peter Pan to Gertie and E.T. in the other room was overhearing. It completely tied his situation with Elliot, in reference to Peter Pan and Tinkerbelle and basically mapped out the rest of the film in these short moments of dialogue. The script was very easy to read and very visual. I do believe that it was in fact meant to be read by non-professionals because of the main fact of how narrative the script was written rather than being as technical as many other scripts are basically writing for the director. In retrospect I really enjoyed reading this script, not because it is a classic pastime, but mainly because of the emotion and visuals it gives its readers.

Discussion Questions:
1) Was there anything in the script that made you feel it was too over the top?

2) Do you believe that the goal was to make E.T. and his connection with Elliot almost real? And if so, how did you feel about the whole scenario with how extensively they quarentined the house?

- Vanessa Viera