E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial [AKA E.T.] (1982, dir. Steven Spielberg)

A boy befriends a stranded alien. Still-powerful Christ allegory dressed up as a child-friendly sci-fi comedy. Works in all kinds of ways, and is technically astounding throughout. What shines is the quiet confidence on display, and Spielberg’s ability to tell story through character moments and shot composition. Recommended.

Here’s the trailer

Slayground (1983, dir. Terry Bedford)

After a heist goes wrong, a hunted thief flees the States to England, where a favour is owed. Though it starts and ends strongly, looks good, and has a grimy post-industrial feel throughout, a saggy middle act and clunky plotting flaw this adaptation of the Richard Stark novel. Plenty of TV faces in support though, plus a climax shot at Southport and Blackpool pleasure beaches.