Talk about dedication! Photographer Michael Meighan has finally captured the iconic E.T. scene, with Elliott and his alien friend silhouetted against the Moon, after a painstaking two-year effort. This isn't just a lucky shot; it's the culmination of meticulous planning, perseverance, and a strong friendship.
Meighan and his friend, Nathan Edwards, were determined to recreate the magical moment from the beloved 1982 film. The challenge? Perfect alignment with the Moon, which only happens during the full moon phase.
Last weekend, the stars (and the planets) aligned. Edwards, a plasterer, pushed his BMX bike up Eglwysilan Mountain in Rhondda Cynon Taf, while Meighan, armed with a massive camera lens, positioned himself 1.4 miles (2.3km) away on a residential street in Treforest, Pontypridd. They communicated by phone, coordinating the shot – much to the curiosity of the local residents.
"They came out wondering what was happening when they saw a man with a huge camera lens next to their house," Meighan, 39, from Cardiff, recalled. He showed them the scene through his camera, with Edwards, 33, from Cwmbran, Torfaen, "huffing and puffing" as he got into position. Edwards even rigged up a plastic wash bowl with a teddy bear to mimic E.T. on the bike.
But here's where it gets controversial... The pair had attempted the shot before, using a phone app to pinpoint the Moon's location. With only 12 full Moons a year, opportunities were limited. But finally, they got the perfect weather conditions.
"We were over the Moon to finally get this one," Meighan said, highlighting the challenges of weather and lunar alignment. "The actual planning is the hard part. Once it's planned, it's very simple to execute."
The duo celebrated their success with a "huge embrace" and a trip to a nearby pub. Meighan praised Edwards' commitment, noting that the plan originated following another full Moon photoshoot two years prior. "He's a fantastic person, a fantastic friend and without him this would not be possible," Meighan said, acknowledging the dedication required to drive to a random location and make the image happen.
And this is the part most people miss... The story highlights the power of friendship and the lengths people will go to achieve a creative vision. It's a reminder that sometimes, the most rewarding achievements require patience, planning, and a little bit of luck. What do you think? Do you have a favorite movie scene you'd love to recreate? Share your thoughts in the comments!
