Imagine dedicating nearly two years to capturing a single photograph—a recreation of one of cinema's most iconic scenes. That's exactly what photographer Michael Meighan and his friend Nathan Edwards did, and the result is nothing short of magical. Inspired by the 1982 classic E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial, the duo set out to recreate the unforgettable moment when Elliott’s BMX bike, with E.T. in the basket, soars past a glowing full Moon. But here’s where it gets fascinating: this wasn’t just a quick snap—it was a labor of love, patience, and precision.
The journey began in 2022, with Meighan and Edwards meticulously planning every detail. Using a phone app to track the Moon’s position, they scouted locations and attempted the shot multiple times, only to be thwarted by unpredictable weather and misaligned celestial bodies. And this is the part most people miss: with only 12 full Moons in a year, each failed attempt meant a month-long wait for the next chance. Finally, during the first full Moon of the year, the stars—or rather, the Moon—aligned perfectly.
On a chilly Saturday night, Edwards, a plasterer by trade, pushed his bike uphill on Eglwysilan Mountain in Rhondda Cynon Taf, Wales. Fastened to the front was a plastic wash bowl holding a teddy bear wrapped in a blanket—a stand-in for E.T. Meanwhile, 1.4 miles away in Treforest, Pontypridd, Meighan waited with his camera, guided by Edwards’ updates over the phone. The scene drew curious onlookers, who emerged from their homes to see a man with a massive camera lens pointing toward the mountain. But here’s where it gets controversial: was this dedication to art or obsession? You decide.
When the moment arrived, Meighan captured the shot, and the pair erupted in joy. They celebrated with a “huge embrace” and a well-deserved pint at a nearby pub. Meighan praised Edwards’ unwavering commitment, calling him “a fantastic person and friend” without whom the project would have been impossible. “The enthusiasm and dedication he showed—driving to a random location, pushing a bike uphill just for this image—it’s brilliant,” Meighan said.
This story isn’t just about a photograph; it’s a testament to friendship, perseverance, and the power of creativity. But here’s the question: In an age of instant gratification, does such dedication to a single shot still hold value? Let us know your thoughts in the comments—we’d love to hear your take on this extraordinary endeavor.
