In a stunning auction event that left movie enthusiasts and collectors in awe, the original animatronic model used to bring the beloved alien ET to life in Steven Spielberg’s 1982 classic film ET the Extra-Terrestrial sold for a jaw-dropping $3.88 million at Julien’s Auctions. This iconic piece of Hollywood history, which captured the hearts of millions with its glowing finger and childlike innocence, has become one of the most valuable movie props ever sold.
The two-day mega-sale, hosted by Julien’s Auctions in collaboration with Turner Classic Movies, featured over 1,300 props from legendary films, including Robert DeNiro’s boxing gloves from Raging Bull and Chris Hemsworth’s hammer from Thor. However, the star of the show was undoubtedly the ET animatronic model, a marvel of 1980s special effects that predated the era of computer-generated imagery (CGI).
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The Magic Behind the ET Animatronic Model
The ET animatronic model is a testament to the ingenuity of Hollywood’s special effects teams. With 85 mechanical joints, the model was designed to move nearly every part of its body, from its expressive eyes to its iconic pointing finger. This level of detail allowed Spielberg to create a character that felt alive, endearing ET to audiences worldwide.
One of the most memorable scenes in the film features ET extending his glowing finger to communicate with his young friend Elliott, uttering the now-famous line, “Phone home.” This moment, brought to life by the animatronic model, remains etched in the minds of fans and is a key reason why the prop holds such immense sentimental and monetary value.
Other Iconic Items Sold at the Auction
The ET animatronic model wasn’t the only piece of movie history to fetch a high price at the Beverly Hills auction. A maquette of ET sold for $125,000, while one of the bikes used in the film’s climactic getaway scene went for $115,000. Other notable items included:
- The staff used by Charlton Heston to part the Red Sea in The Ten Commandments ($448,000)
- Daniel Radcliffe’s Nimbus 2000 broomstick from the Harry Potter series ($128,000)
These sales highlight the enduring appeal of Hollywood memorabilia and the willingness of collectors to invest in pieces of cinematic history.
Why ET Remains a Cultural Icon
Nearly four decades after its release, ET the Extra-Terrestrial continues to resonate with audiences of all ages. The film’s themes of friendship, empathy, and the desire to belong transcend generations, making it a timeless classic. The animatronic model, as a physical representation of ET’s character, embodies these themes and serves as a tangible connection to the film’s emotional core.
For collectors, owning a piece of this history is not just about the monetary value but also about preserving a cultural artifact that has touched millions of lives. The sale of the ET animatronic model underscores the importance of film memorabilia in celebrating and remembering the stories that shape our world.
The sale of the original ET animatronic model for nearly $4 million is a testament to the enduring legacy of Steven Spielberg’s masterpiece and the cultural significance of Hollywood memorabilia. As fans and collectors continue to cherish these iconic pieces, they ensure that the magic of cinema lives on for future generations. Whether you’re a movie buff, a collector, or simply someone who appreciates the art of storytelling, the ET animatronic model serves as a reminder of the power of film to inspire, connect, and captivate.
What’s your favorite memory from ET the Extra-Terrestrial? Share your thoughts in the comments below and join the conversation about this timeless classic! Don’t forget to subscribe to Hasan Jasim’s website for more fascinating stories from the world of film and collectibles.
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