Original E.T. Model Expected to Fetch Up to $1M at Sotheby's Auction

Sotheby’s is set to auction an original screen-used model of E.T. from Steven Spielberg's iconic 1982 film, with expected bids between $600,000 and $900,000. Crafted by special effects artist Carlo Rambaldi, this model was featured in the memorable closet scene where E.T. attempts to blend in with stuffed animals. The auction, part of the 'There Are Such Things: 20th Century Horror, Science Fiction and Fantasy on Screen' series, will also include memorabilia from notable films like 'Dune' and 'Blade Runner.' Rambaldi's design was inspired by figures such as Albert Einstein and was a significant achievement in animatronics, allowing E.T. to perform various movements. The auction will commence on March 29 and run through April 3, with public display of the items beforehand. E.T. remains a celebrated film, having won four Oscars and previously holding the title of highest-grossing film until surpassed by 'Jurassic Park' in 1993.