Some aliens stop by to collect some plant samples. They are spooked by people, flashing lights and dogs investigating the noise and flee - but they accidentally leave one of their number behind. This youngster takes refuge in the shed of a local family where he is discovered by the young "Elliott" (Henry Thomas) and soon the two have a special bond. Gradually the rest of his family are introduced, and they try to figure out how to get him home. Can they succeed before the ever vigilant authorities cotton on? This is just one of these films that is genuinely timeless. It's a love story, a sci-fi adventure, a tale of family, longing and loyalty - all set to superb John Williams score. The chase on the bikes is the stuff of cinema legend, as is "phone home" and the sight of the little creature all dragged-up. The acting from the human youngsters is great, with Drew Barrymore's ("Gertie") and Robert MacNaughton as their elder brother ("Michael") all contributing well to a charming story that even now, 40 years later, is still one of the best cinema has to offer. It works OK on telly, but for best effect seek it out on a big screen - it's still well worth that.