Aliens-1986

Director James Cameron

Starring Sigourney Weaver

Scott’s Review #80

Reviewed June 29, 2014

Grade: B+

Aliens (1986) takes away the rawness of the original Alien (1979) and gives the film franchise a glossier, slicker look.

Made eight years later, the film is set fifty-seven years in the future, when Ripley, played to perfection by Sigourney Weaver, awakens.

To her horror, she discovers the aliens have colonized Earth, and she is forced to return to prevent a catastrophe. The militia is in tow, adding a masculine element that supports the film throughout.

This scenario sets the stage for what becomes an excellent sci-fi adventure story.

The special effects are wonderful and were extraordinary when the film was shot in 1986. The tunnels and spacecraft are perfectly lit and designed, creating a bright, fun setting while letting the audience know doom is lurking.

The actual aliens are visually frightening and, compared to the original, are more plentiful.

Sigourney Weaver takes center stage and leads this film successfully.

I’m not sure many other actresses could pull off her level of authentic toughness and, in the process, give off no sex appeal and still get away with it.

The only detractor is that the film feels a bit dated in a purely 1980s way. It has an 80s look, and that’s not a positive.

Not on par with the excellent original Alien, but otherwise, a well-made, supernatural thrill ride.

Oscar Nominations: 2 wins-Best Actress-Sigourney Weaver, Best Original Score, Best Sound Effects Editing (won), Best Sound, Best Art Direction, Best Film Editing, Best Visual Effects (won)

Golden Globe Nominations: Best Actress- Drama- Sigourney Weaver