In space, everyone can hear you scream… with excitement!
“Aliens” is a science fiction action film released in 1986, directed by James Cameron. The story takes place 57 years after the events of the first film, “Alien.” Ellen Ripley, portrayed by Sigourney Weaver, is awakened from hyper sleep and called back to the moon LV-426, where her crew previously encountered the deadly extraterrestrial creatures.
In this sequel, Ripley joins a group of highly trained colonial marines tasked with investigating the loss of contact with a terraforming colony that has been overrun by the aliens. As they delve into the hostile environment, the marines face intense combat situations against the formidable alien species, which are shown to be even more dangerous and numerous than before. The film combines elements of horror and military action, showcasing a struggle for survival against overwhelming odds as Ripley confronts her fears and fights to protect the lives of both herself and the survivors.
Review by Ben Dover:
Aliens (1986) – 5 Acid-Drooling Space Nightmares
Hold onto your space helmets, folks, because we’re diving into the cosmic chaos of Aliens—the sequel that had everyone questioning if they really wanted to explore the great beyond. Released in 1986, this film takes everything that made the original Alien great and cranks it up to eleven, like a kid with a sugar rush at a birthday party. Let’s dissect this sci-fi classic like it’s a science experiment gone wrong!
The Plot
After a long nap in cryogenic sleep, our favorite bad-ass heroine, Ellen Ripley (played by the indomitable Sigourney Weaver), wakes up to find that not only has she been asleep longer than a teenager on a Saturday, but also that her beloved home planet is now crawling with the terrifying Xenomorphs. So, what do they do? They send her back to the planet with a group of space marines who have all the subtlety of a bull in a china shop. Spoiler alert: things don’t go well.
Key Points:
- Ripley Returns: Because who wouldn’t want to face nightmares from their past? Weaver’s back as Ellen Ripley, and she’s madder than a cat in a bathtub full of xenomorphs
- Space Marines: A bunch of tough guys with more bravado than sense—perfect for a horror movie!
- Xenomorphs: The ultimate nightmare fuel, proving that sometimes, it’s best to leave alien species alone.
The Characters
Let’s talk about the characters, shall we? Sigourney Weaver delivers a performance that’s as fierce as a lioness protecting her cubs. The supporting cast, including Bill Paxton as Hudson and Michael Biehn as Hicks, adds a delightful mix of humor and tension. They’re a ragtag bunch of misfits who make you wish you were watching a sitcom instead of a horror film.
Character Highlights:
- Ellen Ripley: The epitome of a strong female lead—take note, Hollywood!
- Hudson: The comic relief with a knack for one-liners, proving that even in space, sarcasm is universal.
- Hicks: The dependable soldier who’s there to save the day—like a knight in shining armor, just with more guns.
Special Effects
Now, let’s get to the good stuff: the special effects! Aliens takes full advantage of practical effects, and boy, do they deliver! From the menacing Xenomorphs to the impressive spaceship designs, it’s a visual feast. James Cameron really knew how to blend suspense with some jaw-dropping visuals, making you jump out of your seat more than once.
Special Effects Summary:
- Practical Effects: A masterclass in how to freak people out without relying on CGI.
- Visuals: Stunning and atmospheric, making you feel like you’re right there in the action—if only I could bring my couch!
- Overall Impact: Prepare for your heart to race faster than a rabbit on espresso.
- Bad Effects: Some of the space scenes are obviously miniatures however the interior shots are so good that is just nitpicking.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, Aliens is a quintessential sci-fi horror film that surpasses its predecessor in nearly every way. It’s got the action, the suspense, and the memorable characters that keep you glued to your seat. It’s got more firepower than a Texas gun show and more scares than a haunted house on Halloween. If you haven’t seen this classic yet, what are you doing with your life?
Final Rating:
- Out of 5: I’m giving this one a solid 5—it’s a brilliant blend of thrills and chills that stands the test of time.
So grab some popcorn, turn down the lights, and prepare yourself for a wild ride through space. Just remember, folks, in space, no one can hear you scream—unless you’re stuck in a theater with a bunch of jumpy people! Enjoy!
Main Characters in Aliens
- Ellen Ripley: The protagonist, played by Sigourney Weaver. Ripley is a strong and resilient character who has already faced the alien menace and returns determined to confront it again.
- Dwayne Hicks: A colonial marine sergeant, portrayed by Michael Biehn. He is a key ally to Ripley and plays a pivotal role in the military operations against the aliens.
- Burke: A corporate representative played by Paul Reiser, who has self-serving motives and creates tension within the group.
- Newt: A young girl, played by Carrie Henn, who is the sole survivor of the alien infestation on LV-426. She forms a bond with Ripley, becoming an emotional focal point of the film.
- Private Vasquez: A tough and capable member of the marines, portrayed by Jenette Goldstein, who embodies the action-oriented spirit of the squad.
- Pfc. Hudson: Played by Bill Paxton, he provides comic relief and highlights the fear and shock the marines experience when facing the aliens for the first time.
Notes:
Rating: R
Runtime: 2 hour 17 minutes
Gross worldwide: $131,060,248
Budget: $18,500,000 (estimated)
The alien screams are Baboon shrieks altered in post.
One of the alien eggs used in the film is now exhibited in the Smithsonian Institution in Washington, D.C.
After Ripley manages to open the airlock and the Queen tumbles out into the vacuum of space, its scream continues to be heard – even though this film follows on from the original, which had the tagline “In space, no-one can hear you scream!”.
When the dropship is released, it is shown to be falling immediately as if in full gravity. However, since the Sulaco is placed on a stationary orbit, the dropship should remain in place upon releasing the clamps.
Quotes:
Ripley: [when the alien queen threatens Newt] Get away from her, you bitch!
Newt: My mommy always said there were no monsters – no real ones – but there are.
Ripley: Yes, there are, aren’t there?
Newt: Why do they tell little kids that?
Ripley: Most of the time it’s true.
Newt: We’d better get back, ’cause it’ll be dark soon, and they mostly come at night… mostly.
Critics Consensus:
Critics 94% Audience 94% Rotten Tomatoes
While Alien was a marvel of slow-building, atmospheric tension, Aliens packs a much more visceral punch, and features a typically strong performance from Sigourney Weaver.
Trailer:
Reviewers live watch notes:
There are some horrifyingly bad space shots by modern standards. The interiors are amazing though.
Paul Reiser is annoying but it feels like its on purpose so okay
Attention to detail… One thing is for sure, Scott knows how to pay attention, when Ripley wakes up from cryo-sleep her bush is gigantic lol
The loaders are some cool tech and Ripley showing early that she can do them comes back later in a big way.
I like the big old batmobile looking troop transport.
Space gravity.. really?
We get our first Alien in this story a full hour in.
Ripley cant drive worth a damn.
Great movie that is about 30 minutes too long.