E.T.'s Secret! You Won't BELIEVE What His Walking Sound Was Made From!

The seemingly otherworldly sounds that bring fictional creatures to life on screen often have surprisingly humble origins, a testament to the ingenuity of sound designers. This creative process is known as foley artistry, a specialized field in filmmaking named after sound pioneer Jack Foley. Foley artists are tasked with recreating and enhancing everyday sounds that are then synchronized with the visuals in post-production, adding depth, realism, and emotional resonance to a scene. These sounds, from the rustle of clothing to the crunch of footsteps, are crucial for immersing an audience, often replacing or supplementing audio captured during filming that might be indistinct or lacking impact.

The iconic squishy sound of E.T. traversing his environment is a prime example of this inventive approach. Rather than relying on high-tech synthesizers, legendary sound designer Ben Burtt achieved the distinctive effect by squishing his hands in Jell-O. Burtt, known for his organic sound design philosophy, frequently sought out real-world objects to craft unique and memorable auditory experiences for films like "Star Wars" and "Indiana Jones." His inspiration for E.T.'s delicate steps reportedly came from experimenting with grape jelly during a lunch break, a simple discovery that captivated director Steven Spielberg. This technique highlights how foley artists often think outside the box, using unexpected materials—such as coconut shells for horse (Review) hooves or celery for breaking bones—to create sounds that are not direct imitations but rather imaginative and effective sonic illusions. The meticulous layering of these handcrafted sounds ensures that what we hear perfectly complements what we see, drawing us deeper into the story.