Actually filmed a scene as the principal that lectured Elliot about alcohol. Speilberg later cut the scene because he thought Ford's popularity hurt the film.

Sarah Michelle Gellar auditioned for the role of Gertie.

Michael Jackson recorded the theme song "Someone In the Dark" but it was not used in the film. It was however later used on an E.T. story book album.

Singer/songwriter James Taylor wrote a song for the movie that was never used. It was eventually released on one of his albums.