1990 Universal Applause E.T. Plush

The Applause ET Plush was a soft toy figurine that was manufactured by the company Universal and subsequently released to the public in the year 1990.

Background

The Applause ET Plush came into existence during a time characterized by a renewed interest in the iconic film from 1982 titled “ET the Extra-Terrestrial,” a cinematic piece that had captivated the imagination of millions of individuals around the globe. Universal Studios, upon recognizing the enduring popularity of the beloved character, took the initiative to develop a plush toy that aimed to encapsulate the charm and emotional resonance associated with the original movie character. This particular toy was part of a larger trend observed in the late 1980s and early 1990s regarding the creation of interactive merchandise that extended beyond the traditional static designs of plush toys.

Features

The plush toy featured several notable characteristics that effectively distinguished it from other toys that were available during that particular era. It incorporated a small electronic module that enabled the reproduction of sound and allowed for limited movement, thus permitting the toy to mimic some of ET’s most memorable gestures and phrases that were featured in the film. Typically, the plush stood at an approximate height of 12 to 14 inches tall and was crafted using soft, child-friendly materials; it was designed to closely resemble the alien protagonist from the film – complete with large, expressive eyes, a wrinkled skin texture, and a distinctive color palette that combined shades of brown and beige.

Specific technical features included:
• An electronic sound module
• Soft polyester fiber filling for added comfort
• Textured fabric that mimicked ET’s unique skin
• An approximate height of 12 to 14 inches
• Battery-operated capabilities that allowed for movement

Popularity and Legacy

During the time of its release, the Applause ET Plush gained significant traction and popularity among children as well as collectors who had grown up watching the original film. The toy effectively bridged nostalgia for older fans while simultaneously introducing younger generations to the character through a tangible and interactive medium. While it was not necessarily a blockbuster merchandise item, it managed to maintain steady interest among enthusiasts of ET and toy collectors throughout the early years of the 1990s.

This plush toy represented a specific moment in consumer culture wherein film-based merchandise began to incorporate more sophisticated interactive elements, signaling a notable shift from purely decorative toys to those that provided more engaging play experiences. Its design was reflective of the technological capabilities of consumer electronics at that time, which, while relatively simple by today’s standards, were considered quite innovative for its period.

Video Reviews and Commercials

The video shows a person introducing their pet mouse, Pablo, while unboxing a two-dollar Homer Simpson figurine from a flea market. The toy appears to be in good condition, with an official Fox merchandise tag. The owner examines the 3-inch tall figurine and discusses its potential origin related to a milestone episode of The Simpsons.

Availability and Collectability

Original Applause ET Plush toys have evolved into moderately collectible items, with well-preserved specimens fetching modest prices among vintage toy collectors who are passionate about their finds. The value of the toy depends significantly on its overall condition, with examples that are in mint condition commanding higher prices than those that exhibit significant wear and tear. Collectors typically seek out specimens that not only retain their original electronic functionality but also show minimal degradation in the fabric.

Factors affecting collectability include:
• The preservation of original electronic components
• The absence of significant wear on the fabric
• The presence of the original packaging, if available
• The overall condition of the plush toy itself
• The current market demand among collectors of ET memorabilia

The toy represents a particular moment in the history of merchandising, specifically when film-based interactive toys were beginning to become increasingly sophisticated, thus bridging the gap between entertainment media and consumer products in novel ways that would continue to evolve and change in the decades that followed.