Dee Wallace Reveals Behind-the-Scenes Battle to Keep Family-Friendly Vibes in E.T.
You might think that making a family classic like *E.T.* would be a smooth ride, but let me break it down for you: it’s not all fun and games, especially when it comes to the creative choices that shape a film’s legacy. Dee Wallace, the iconic mom from the 1982 hit, recently spilled a little tea about a particularly steamy scene that almost took a very different turn than intended. In a refreshingly candid interview, Wallace revealed that she fought tooth and nail to tone down the sexual undertones in one specific moment, insisting, “This was a family film.”
Imagine that! A family film being, well, family-friendly. According to Wallace, who played Mary, the loving mother of young Elliott, there were discussions behind the scenes that could have led to a more risqué portrayal than what audiences ultimately saw. She explained that the original script included elements that felt out of place in a movie meant to capture the innocence of childhood and the magical friendship between a boy and an alien. “I just kept saying, ‘No, no, no, we can’t do that,’” Wallace recounted, emphasizing her commitment to preserving the film’s wholesome charm.
Let’s throw in some context here. *E.T.* became a cultural phenomenon, grossing over $400 million and capturing the hearts of children and adults alike. So, it’s not surprising that Wallace wanted to ensure that the final cut aligned with the film’s overarching themes of love, friendship, and adventure. Her efforts didn’t go unnoticed, as the film’s director, Steven Spielberg, valued her input and ultimately agreed to soften the scene, resulting in a family-friendly classic that has stood the test of time.
Wallace’s reflections come at a time when family entertainment often faces scrutiny over its content. In today’s world, where parental controls and content ratings are the norm, it’s easy to forget that this film was released when such considerations were less prevalent. Yet, Wallace’s insistence on maintaining a certain level of innocence showcases the undeniable power of a strong voice in the creative process.
So, what’s next on the horizon for Wallace? After all this talk about film history, who wouldn’t want to know what she’s up to these days? Stay tuned, because this beloved star still has plenty of stories to share, and you won’t want to miss her next move!
Sources: Celebrity Storm and People Magazine, Entertainment Weekly
Attribution: Creative Commons Licensed
