Some consider this movie overrated and drawn out, while the Leonard Maltin movie guide review seems a bit baffled that some people like this kind of entertainment. Don't listen to either of them. Alien is, quite simply, one of the best movies ever made in both the sci-fi and horror genres. Those who complain that the film takes too long to get going suffer from some kind of cinematic attention span disorder; Ridley Scott draws his scenes out because he wants to build tension and establish a sense of realism before introducing H.R. Giger's terrifying creation. Unfortunately we can all see that the monster is just a guy in a suit during the closing sequences when Scott finally lets us see what the big slimy nemesis really looks like, but otherwise the film hasn't aged a bit since it came out two decades ago. The DVD is great too, with excellent picture quality and a really great commentary track, despite some disastrously inappropriate menu screens (the interfaces are all CG-rendered glitz, which really doesn't go with a movie known for its slow, elegant, quiet suspense). Anyone with any interest in horror or science fiction films in general should pick up this classic immediately.Read full review
Surely her finest performance was in the James Cameron-directed sequal, but her debut here provided the essential bit of helplessness in the face of fear; fear of the unknown, and our nightmares come to life. That's what I think Ridley Scott accomplished here, with the quintissential representation of our worst fears of what we humans might discover in the endless vastness of space. A horror tale at heart, Alien also deals with the inevitble corporatization (and hitherto mishandlement) of any new enterprise that promises the almighty dollar, vis-a-vis 'The Company.' Of course, when you think about it, that's maybe the most horrific concept presented in Alien. I highly recommend this director's cut DVD to anyone who is a fan of Scott, Weaver or the sci-fi/horror genre in general; the special features also provide the interested with hours of neat behind-the-scenes tidbits that make impresive conversation.Read full review
Excellent movie the new footage adds more thrills. Like watching the movie for the first time but better.
Verified purchase: Yes | Condition: Pre-owned
one of the best sci-fi movies ever made
Verified purchase: Yes | Condition: New
Ridley Scott's 1979 film Alien is one of the best science fiction films of all time. Taking inspiration from 2001: A Space Odyssey, the film contains a small cast of memorable characters and a plot that keeps the viewer guessing. Like 2001, this is a slow-paced, thoughtful, and often eerie film that keeps its audience interested and guessing. The entire cast do an excellent job in portraying the future as a much grittier, rough place than is seen in such franchises as Star Trek. In addition to Weaver as the competent, pragmatic Ripley, Ian Holm puts in a strong performance as the objective science officer, Ash. It is worth noting that Scott's Director's Cut of the film changes little, but enhances a few surprises and tightens the plot of this already well-executed piece. A wonderful film, filled with ambiance, Alien will stay in your mind long after you've watched it.Read full review
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