Favourite Horror Movies 8 – Alien (1979)
The 1979 film ‘Alien’ directed by Ridley Scott is not just a movie; it’s a landmark in cinematic history. This science fiction horror masterpiece has stood the test of time, influencing countless films and media in the genre.
The story unfolds aboard the commercial space tug Nostromo, whose crew encounters a deadly extraterrestrial being after investigating a mysterious transmission. The film’s success at the box office and its critical acclaim paved the way for a franchise that continues to captivate audiences.
Warning! This article contains spoilers. It was created for those who have already seen the movie in question. If you have not seen the movie and plan to do so, it is suggested you do so before reading this article.
The film’s narrative is a gripping tale of survival against an unknown cosmic threat, but it’s the film’s design and visual effects that truly set it apart. The Alien creature, known as the Xenomorphs, was designed by Swiss artist H.R. Giger and is a terrifying and iconic figure that has become synonymous with the horror of the unknown in space. The claustrophobic and industrial design of the spaceship Nostromo, contrasted with the biomechanical horror of the Alien, creates a visual language that has been imitated but never replicated.
Sigourney Weaver’s portrayal of Ellen Ripley is another aspect that has had a lasting impact on the industry. Ripley is a character that defies the traditional gender roles of the time, becoming one of the most significant female protagonists in film history. Her character’s journey and development across the franchise have become a core element of the series’ narrative.
The movie has several purely iconic scenes still recognised today, top of which are the scenes featuring the Facehugger and the Chestburster incarnations of the Xenomorph making their first appearences. Totally awesome cinema, even by today’s standards, from a movie made in the 1970s.
The film’s legacy extends beyond its immediate sequels. It has inspired a vast array of books, video games, and merchandise, expanding the universe and exploring the lore in depth. The thematic elements of ‘Alien’—isolation, the fear of the unknown, and the struggle for survival—are universal, allowing the film to resonate with generations of viewers.
‘Alien’ has also been recognized by various institutions for its cultural, historical, and aesthetic significance. It was selected for preservation in the United States National Film Registry and ranked by the American Film Institute as one of the greatest films in the science fiction genre. The film won the Academy Award for Best Visual Effects and received numerous other accolades, solidifying its place in film history.
The success of ‘Alien’ spawned a franchise that includes sequels, prequels, and crossovers, each contributing to the expansive mythology of the Alien universe. The chronological order of the films, starting with ‘Alien vs. Predator’ and leading up to ‘Alien: Covenant’, offers a complex and interwoven narrative that explores the origins and implications of the creatures known as Xenomorphs.
In conclusion, ‘Alien’ is more than just a film; it’s a phenomenon that has left an indelible mark on the landscape of science fiction and horror. Its influence can be seen in the visual and thematic elements of many subsequent works in the genre. As we look back on its impact, it’s clear that ‘Alien’ will continue to be celebrated and studied for years to come, a testament to its enduring power and appeal.
Here are some intriguing pieces of trivia that fans of the ‘Alien’ franchise might find fun:
The Concept of Acidic Blood: It was conceptual artist Ron Cobb who came up with the ingenious idea that the Alien should bleed acid. This concept was born out of a narrative necessity, as screenwriter Dan O’Bannon needed a plausible reason why the crew couldn’t simply shoot the creature dead.
Borrowed Lasers: The eerie blue laser lights used in the alien ship’s egg chamber were actually borrowed from the rock band The Who. The band was testing the lasers for their stage show in a soundstage next door.
The Chestburster Scene: Contrary to popular belief, the infamous chestburster scene was not captured in a single take. The first attempt was unsuccessful, but director Ridley Scott found the footage useful, as it appeared the creature was struggling to emerge, adding to the scene’s intensity.
Unusual Materials: To create the tendons in the beast’s jaws, the special effects team used shredded condoms, showcasing the crew’s resourcefulness and creativity.
Method Acting: Yaphet Kotto, who played Parker, was instructed by Ridley Scott to antagonize Sigourney Weaver off-camera to foster genuine tension between their characters. Kotto later expressed regret over this, as he genuinely liked Weaver.
Casting the Alien: Bolaji Badejo, the actor who played the alien, was discovered in an English pub due to his towering height. He was taught Tai-Chi to achieve the fluid movements desired for the character.
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© Colin Lawson Books