Video: Product Placement in the Movies: E.T.

In this famous scene from Steven Spielberg's E.T., a real-life product plays an integral role. Watch the clip and then consider the questions below.

Discussion Questions

  1. Question

    After the release of E.T., Reese's Pieces sales skyrocketed. Why did this scene serve as such an effective advertisement? Watching it now, over thirty years later, does it seem natural or gratuitous to you?
    Your answer has been submitted.
    After the release of E.T., Reese's Pieces sales skyrocketed. Why did this scene serve as such an effective advertisement? Watching it now, over thirty years later, does it seem natural or gratuitous to you?

  2. Question

    Do you always notice product placement in movies? Do you think it can be a useful storytelling tool even if it's paid for? Why or why not?
    Your answer has been submitted.
    Do you always notice product placement in movies? Do you think it can be a useful storytelling tool even if it's paid for? Why or why not?