E.T. The Extra-Terrestrial

"E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial" (1982)

The moment: A bumpy bike ride through the woods takes flight over the forest and across a full moon.

Why it's great: Every child's fantasy comes to life in a scene that turns an iconic Halloween image into a thoroughly suburban fairy tale ... more for kids who think they are too hip to believe in fairies.

Why it has lasted: Sure, the iconic "E.T." image has since become the corporate logo for Amblin Entertainment, but the scene itself is charged by the sheer joy expressed by young Henry Thomas. He bursts into laughter and spontaneous shouts of pleasure with such a purity that you no longer see a performance, only a boy experiencing a dream come true through the generous gift of magic from his alien buddy -- part pet, part best friend, part guardian angel, all kindred soul.

(Universal / Everett Collection)