VIDEO CHARTS : ‘E.T.’ Cassette Reigns Supreme

“E.T” is the chart champ, topping both Billboard magazine charts--rentals and sales, which measure sales to retailers and distributors. The sales chart dominance may last many months, but “E.T.’s” rental reign should be relatively brief. In a few weeks, the cute little alien could be booted out of top spot by another cuddly creature--the infant in “Three Men and a Baby.” “Sunset,” starring James Garner and Bruce Willis, might test the theory that renters will watch big stars in just about anything. Movie critics and audiences pulled the shades on “Sunset,” but the cassette dawned on the chart at No. 33.

* Touted as the next big adventure hero--the eventual heir to the macho kingdom of Bronson and Eastwood--Steven Seagal began with a bang in “Above the Law,” which grossed a respectable $19 million. Some home-video experts predict Seagal will make a big splash in the rental market. “Above the Law” debuted at No. 14.

Rental Weeks Sales Top Ranking On Rental Chart Rentals Last Week Chart Ranking 1. “E.T.: The Extraterrestrial” 2 2 1 (MCA Home Video) 2. “Beetlejuice” 1 4 -- (Warner Home Video) 3. “Shoot to Kill” 3 6 -- (Touchstone) 4. “Moonstruck” 4 11 -- (MGM/UA) 5. “*batteries not included” 6 8 32 (MCA) * “Above the Law” -- 1 -- (Warner)