Aliens (1986)

In this spectacular sequel, James Cameron takes over the direction from Scott and does so with panache.

Cameron always has a tendency to want to tackle everything on a very grand scale in his films, something I can usually appreciate, and Aliens is no different. What could be scarier than one Alien? Exactly, multiple of those creatures, and in this film, there are quite a few of them. That doesn't automatically mean this film is better, though. I don't think so, but with a good concept and good execution, Cameron goes a long way.

What always stuck with me is the fact that in this film, the tension from the first part is factored in for action. That is certainly the case, although it takes quite a while before the action starts. But when it does, it explodes and it is pure explosions. I still consider it a strong move. A repetition of the first part probably wouldn't have worked, because it could hardly be matched in terms of tension. In terms of action, it is spot on, and especially in the second part of the film, it is more than fine in that regard, with excellent special effects for that time as well.

One downside to all of this is that the film is somewhat less suspenseful. Of course, there are more aliens, but they also seem much less intelligent than those from the previous film and occasionally serve literally as cannon fodder. Weaver does a fine job again in this film and remains a tough woman, who actually gains a bit more depth here. However, the show is stolen by good old Lance Henriksen, who is always up for a role but delivers one of his best performances ever here.

However, unlike Alien, Aliens recently made just slightly less of an impression than it used to. It remains a fine action movie, that's for sure, but I am still downgrading the film by half a star.

4.0*

Translated from Dutch · View original

Good movie. The only remarkable thing, in my opinion, is that Ripley hasn't started to look older due to her long sleep. The story is good, but I find it a shame that the Aliens are used more as targets than as enemies in this installment. Still, it comes reasonably close to the success of part 1.

As far as I'm concerned, this film should be classified as Action/Science Fiction, because I didn't think it fit in Horror.

Definitely a film you just want to see again after twenty times.

He gets a solid 3.5 from me.

Translated from Dutch · View original

A strong sequel with James Cameron at the helm, who takes a completely different approach by adding a hefty dose of action. The claustrophobia of its predecessor is gone, but the dark tone remains intact. Excellent special effects. Suspenseful, scary, and entertaining. The film looks beautiful and spectacular once again, with the finale being an absolute highlight. The cast is also good again. Bill Paxton has a nice supporting role, and Sigourney Weaver is strong and holds her own completely here. By far the best installment in the Alien series. Incidentally, I saw the director's cut, which is, as far as I'm concerned, the only version of the film.

Translated from Dutch · View original