Two very different movie classics celebrate anniversaries this week with theatrical screenings. On Wednesday, “E.T.: The Extra-Terrestrial” celebrates turning 30 with screenings at the Fenway and suburban locations (the movie’s Blu-ray release is Oct. 9). On Thursday, “Lawrence of Arabia” celebrates turning 50 with screenings at the Boston Common, Fenway, and suburban locations (the fully restored Blu-ray version arrives in a four-disc set on Nov. 13).

Sand and subdivisions, history and fantasy, biopic and sci-fi,
David Lean and Steven Spielberg, Peter O’Toole and animatronics:
The films could hardly be more different.

Or could they?