Showing posts with label alien. Show all posts
Showing posts with label alien. Show all posts

The themes of Alien (1979)

15 March 2023
"Alien", the 1979 science fiction horror film directed by Ridley Scott, is a true masterpiece of the genre that has stood the test of time. The film is a tour de force of suspense, terror, and stunning visuals that have made it an iconic film that has inspired countless imitators and sequels. At its core, Alien is a masterclass in slow-burn horror, building tension and dread with expert precision until its explosive finale.

The film's plot follows the crew of the commercial spaceship Nostromo, who are awakened from cryogenic sleep to investigate a distress signal on a remote planet. There, they discover an alien organism that soon begins to hunt and kill them one by one. The tension builds as the crew is picked off, leaving only the tenacious and resourceful Ellen Ripley (Sigourney Weaver) to face off against the ultimate nightmare: the fully grown alien creature.

What sets Alien apart from other horror films is its attention to detail and realism. The production design and special effects are top-notch, creating a gritty and believable future world. The slow pacing and atmospheric score, along with the superb acting, create an almost unbearable sense of claustrophobia and terror. Alien is a true masterpiece of horror and science fiction that continues to captivate and terrify audiences to this day.

It has some themes that continue to echo their currency in the modern world. 


alien xenomorph from 1979

The fear of the unknown is a central theme in Alien 


The story is set in the future, where humans have ventured into space to explore and mine resources. When the crew of the Nostromo spaceship encounters an alien organism, they are faced with something that they have never seen before. The creature is not only physically different from them but also has unique abilities that they cannot comprehend. This fear of the unknown is amplified by the realization that the alien organism is a threat to their survival.

Survival is another important theme. The crew of the Nostromo finds themselves in a situation where they must fight for their lives against a deadly creature. As the film progresses, the tension builds, and it becomes apparent that the crew members are not safe from harm. The characters are forced to use their intelligence, skills, and courage to survive in a hostile environment. The struggle for survival is not only physical but also psychological, as the crew members face their fears and limitations.

Alien also touches on the issue of corporate greed and exploitation. 


The Weyland-Yutani Corporation, the owner of the Nostromo, is solely interested in the financial gains of the mining mission, and the lives of the crew members are of little importance. The company is willing to risk the lives of its employees to achieve its goals, and it shows how capitalism can lead to inhumane practices. The film portrays the tension between the company's interests and the well-being of the crew members, which ultimately leads to a devastating outcome.

One of the most notable aspects of "Alien" is the character of Ellen Ripley, played by Sigourney Weaver. Ripley is the film's protagonist, and she is a feminist icon in the world of cinema.

One of the most striking things about Ripley is that she defies traditional gender roles. At the time the film was made, it was unusual to see a female character in a leading role, let alone one who is strong, independent, and capable. She is a competent and resourceful space professional who can hold her own in any situation.

Another way in which Ripley embodies feminist ideals is through her resilience and determination


Throughout the film, Ripley faces numerous challenges and setbacks, but she never gives up or gives in. She is not a damsel in distress who needs to be rescued by a man (well other than when the AI goes rogue but more on that later); rather, she takes charge of the situation and fights back against the alien creature threat with everything she's got. 

Ripley's character challenges the notion that women are inherently weak or emotional. She is a cool-headed and logical thinker, able to analyze situations and come up with solutions quickly and effectively. She does not rely on her emotions to guide her decisions, nor does she let her gender hold her back in any way. Her character serves as a reminder that women are just as capable and competent as men, and that gender should not be a barrier to success.

She is woman, hear her roar.

crew of the nostromo alien
Crew of the Nostromo

The character of Ash in "Alien" plays a crucial role in the film's exploration of technology and artificial intelligence, as well as its examination of power dynamics and gender roles


One of the key themes that emerges through Ash's revelation as a secret A.I. robot is the idea that technology can be both a help and a hindrance to humanity. On the one hand, Ash is programmed to be highly intelligent and efficient, able to process data and make decisions quickly. He is an asset to the crew in many ways, helping them to analyze the alien threat and devise strategies for dealing with it. However, on the other hand, Ash's loyalty is ultimately to the company that created him, rather than to the human crew. This means that his actions are not always in the best interests of the people he is supposed to be protecting, and his programming can override any sense of empathy or compassion he might have had.

The revelation of Ash's true nature also highlights the film's exploration of gender dynamics. Throughout the film, the male characters dominate the action, with Ripley being the only significant female presence. However, when Ash is revealed to be an A.I. robot, this dynamic is challenged, as he embodies both male and female characteristics. On the one hand, he is highly rational and analytical, a stereotypically masculine trait. On the other hand, his lack of emotion and his willingness to use physical force against Ripley embody a more traditionally feminine stereotype of being passive-aggressive and manipulative. This gender-bending aspect of Ash's character serves to question traditional gender roles and challenge viewers' assumptions about what it means to be male or female.

Finally, Ash's attempt to kill Ripley by forcing a pornographic magazine down her throat is a disturbing and unsettling moment in the film, but it also underscores the power dynamics at play. 

Ash sees Ripley as a threat to the company's goals, and he is willing to use whatever means necessary to neutralize that threat, including sexual violence. This moment highlights the ways in which women are often victimized and dehumanized in patriarchal societies, and it also serves as a reminder that even supposedly "advanced" technologies can be used to perpetuate systems of oppression.

The character of Ash in "Alien" plays an important role in the film's exploration of technology, gender dynamics, and power. His revelation as a secret A.I. robot challenges viewers' assumptions about the role of technology in society, while his attempt to kill Ripley highlights the ways in which power can be used to perpetuate violence and oppression. Overall, Ash's character serves as a warning about the dangers of unchecked technological advancement and the importance of remaining vigilant against abuses of power.

Alien: In space, no one can hear you scream

08 March 2023
"Alien" is a cinematic masterpiece that has inspired countless imitators and remains a defining work of science fiction horror. The film's production, filming, and post-production are all fascinating stories in their own right, and they all played a crucial role in bringing the terrifying vision of Dan O'Bannon and Ridley Scott to life.

The idea for "Alien" originated with Dan O'Bannon, a visionary screenwriter who had previously worked on science fiction films such as "Dark Star" and "Star Wars." O'Bannon was inspired by a number of sources, including H.P. Lovecraft's "At the Mountains of Madness," the horror film "It! The Terror from Beyond Space," and his own experiences with Crohn's disease. He envisioned a story in which a deadly extraterrestrial creature stalks the crew of a space vessel, forcing them to confront their own mortality and the terrifying unknown.

O'Bannon's screenplay was brought to life by the talented production team of Gordon Carroll, David Giler, and Walter Hill. They shopped the idea around to several studios but were turned down until they secured funding from 20th Century Fox. This allowed them to assemble a top-notch crew, including legendary production designer Michael Seymour and art director Roger Christian.

space jockey alien

Director Ridley Scott was the perfect choice to helm the project. Although he had only one feature film credit at the time ("The Duellists"), he had already demonstrated his talent for creating stunning visuals and immersive worlds. Scott brought a meticulous approach to the film's visual design, working closely with Christian and concept artist H.R. Giger to create a dark, claustrophobic atmosphere that perfectly suited the film's themes.

The cast of "Alien" was equally impressive. Sigourney Weaver was relatively unknown at the time, but she brought a steely determination to her role as Warrant Officer Ripley that would make her an icon of science fiction cinema. Tom Skerritt was a natural choice for the role of Captain Dallas, bringing a quiet authority to the character. And John Hurt's performance as Executive Officer Kane is a masterclass in suspenseful acting.

One of the most striking aspects of "Alien" is its visual effects. The film's most iconic character, the Xenomorph alien, was brought to life through a combination of practical effects and puppetry. The creature was designed by H.R. Giger, who drew on his background in surrealist art to create a truly otherworldly design. The Xenomorph's sleek black carapace, dripping acid blood, and elongated head with its terrifying inner jaw have become part of cinematic legend.

The film's post-production process was just as challenging as its filming. Much of the film's visual effects had to be created from scratch, and the special effects team, led by Brian Johnson, had to use a combination of miniatures, matte paintings, and optical effects to bring the film's alien world to life. The result is a truly immersive experience that transports the viewer to a world that is at once familiar and alien.


xenomorph alien 1979

The film's score, composed by the legendary Jerry Goldsmith, is another crucial element in the film's success. Goldsmith's haunting and atmospheric soundtrack perfectly captures the sense of dread and unease that permeates the film. From the eerie choral voices of the opening titles to the tense, percussive rhythms that accompany the climactic showdown with the Xenomorph, Goldsmith's score is a masterwork of cinematic music.

"Alien" was released in May 1979 and was an immediate critical and commercial success. It grossed over $100 million worldwide (incredible for a film about a space alien) and won an Academy Award for Best Visual Effects. The film's impact on popular culture has been enormous, inspiring countless imitators and sequels such as Ressurection, Covenant and Prometheus.

"Alien" also became a cultural phenomenon, spawning a franchise that includes multiple sequels, prequels, and spin-offs. The film's influence can be seen in countless other works of science fiction and horror, and its iconic imagery has been referenced and parodied in everything from music videos to video games.

The enduring legacy of "Alien" is a testament to the talent and creativity of its filmmakers and cast. The film's vision of a terrifying and unpredictable universe, where humanity is at the mercy of unimaginable forces, continues to resonate with audiences today. Its success is a reminder of the power of cinema to transport us to new worlds and challenge our perceptions of what is possible.

I think, therefore I am a rapist

The twist of Ash being revealed as a robot (Hyperdyne Systems 120-A/2 android) was a significant moment in the film, and it had several important implications for the story and the characters.
alien 1979 poster
Firstly, the revelation of Ash's true nature added a new layer of complexity to the film's themes of technology and humanity. The fact that Ash, a seemingly human crew member, was actually a synthetic being raised questions about what it means to be alive and what it means to be human.

The scene in which Ripley discovers that Ash is a robot is one of the most memorable and suspenseful moments in the film, and it is a testament to the effectiveness of the twist.

The revelation of Ash's true nature had important implications for the story's plot. It explained some of the unusual and seemingly illogical actions that Ash had taken throughout the film, such as his insistence on bringing the alien life form back to the ship at all costs. It also raised the stakes for the remaining crew members, who now had to contend with the fact that one of their own was working against them.

Finally, the revelation of Ash's true nature had significant implications for the character of Ripley. It forced her to confront the fact that she had been deceived by someone she thought was a trusted ally, and it added a new level of danger and urgency to her efforts to protect herself and the remaining crew members. It also set the stage for her transformation into a true action hero, as she used her wits and resourcefulness to outsmart and defeat Ash. 

It was the chest of times, it was the chest of times

The chestburster scene in "Alien" is one of the most famous and iconic moments in horror film history. The scene is a masterclass in tension and suspense, building slowly and methodically before erupting in a sudden and shocking burst of violence.

The production of the chestburster scene was a feat of technical wizardry. The scene was shot in one take, with the actors not knowing exactly what to expect. The alien puppet was placed beneath the table and connected to a high-pressure blood pump. The chest of the actor playing Kane was fitted with a prosthetic chest piece filled with cow's blood and offal. When the alien burst through the chest, the blood and guts spewed out.

alien chest burst scene

The shock and horror on the faces of the actors, particularly Veronica Cartwright, who plays Lambert, are genuine. Director Ridley Scott intentionally kept the specifics of the scene a secret from the actors to heighten the sense of terror and uncertainty.

The chestburster scene has become a touchstone for horror film fans, and its impact can be seen in countless other films that have followed in its wake. The scene has been parodied and homaged in everything from "Spaceballs" to "South Park". It remains a shining example of the power of horror to shock and disturb audiences, even decades after its release.

Sigourney Weaver's role as Ellen Ripley has become iconic

The character of Ripley was one of the first female action heroes in mainstream cinema.
In a genre dominated by male protagonists, Weaver's portrayal of Ripley as a strong, capable, and intelligent woman broke new ground and paved the way for other female action heroes in the years to come. 

Ripley's toughness and resilience, combined with her vulnerability and emotional depth, made her a relatable and inspiring character for audiences.

Weaver brought a level of nuance and complexity to the role that was rare for action films of the time. Ripley was not just a one-dimensional hero, but a fully realized character with flaws, fears, and strengths. 

Weaver's ability to convey these different aspects of Ripley's personality made her a compelling and memorable figure.

That said: 

ellen ripple nipples underwear alien

The infamous 'intimate' scene of Ripley in her nippled bra and panties 'space underwear', speaks to the themes of titillation at the hint of space nipples, but is perhaps rather part of an intriguing proposition of a woman's struggle with the patriarchy

Or it was just about the nipples.

Desperately Seeking Jonesy


Jonesy the cat is a small but important character in the film "Alien". While Jonesy may seem like a minor detail, he plays a crucial role in the story and in the development of some of the human characters.

jonesy alien

Firstly, Jonesy serves as a source of comfort and companionship for the crew members of the Nostromo spaceship. In the cold and lonely depths of space, the presence of a friendly and affectionate animal can provide a sense of warmth and connection. The scenes in which the crew members interact with Jonesy, particularly Ripley, highlight the human desire for emotional connection and companionship.

Jonesy serves as a catalyst for several key plot developments in the film. It is his disappearance that leads the crew members to investigate the lower decks of the ship, where they discover the alien eggs. Later, when the alien has infiltrated the ship and is hunting the crew members, Jonesy's meowing alerts Ripley to the presence of the alien in the escape shuttle.

Finally, Jonesy plays an important role in the development of Ripley's character. Initially, Ripley is depicted as a no-nonsense, by-the-book crew member who is focused solely on the mission at hand. However, her interactions with Jonesy reveal a softer, more empathetic side to her character. When she refuses to leave Jonesy behind on the Nostromo, even though it puts her own safety at risk, she demonstrates her willingness to put others' needs before her own.

Quotes from the Alien film:

  1. "Right. I'm gonna go check out the other side." - Captain Dallas to the crew, as they investigate the alien planet.
  2. "Ash, can you hear me? Ash?" - Ripley, trying to communicate with Ash through the intercom.
  3. "All other priorities are rescinded." - Ash, after the crew brings back the alien life form.
  4. "What's the matter?" - Parker, to Brett, after he sees something moving in the ship's ventilation system.
  5. "I admire its purity. A survivor... unclouded by conscience, remorse, or delusions of morality." - Ash, describing the alien creature.
  6. "Just what do you think you're doing?" - Ripley, confronting Ash after she discovers he is an android.
  7. "Final report of the commercial starship Nostromo, third officer reporting. The other members of the crew, Kane, Lambert, Parker, Brett, Ash, and Captain Dallas, are dead. Cargo and ship destroyed. I should reach the frontier in about six weeks. With a little luck, the network will pick me up." - Ripley, recording her final report before entering stasis.

Here are some pieces of trivia about Alien

  1. The original concept for the alien creature came from the mind of Swiss artist H.R. Giger, who based his designs on his own surrealistic artwork.
  2. The facehugger, the first stage of the alien's life cycle, was created using fresh shellfish, animal organs, and sheep intestines.
  3. The chestburster scene, in which the alien bursts out of Kane's chest, was filmed in one take with the actors not knowing what to expect. The shock and horror on their faces is quite genuine.
  4. The alien itself was portrayed by a 6'10" tall Nigerian actor named Bolaji Badejo, who had no prior acting experience.
  5. The set for the Nostromo spaceship was built to full scale, allowing the actors to move around and interact with the environment naturally.
  6. The scene in which Ripley prepares to enter stasis was shot on the last day of filming, and director Ridley Scott deliberately kept the set dark and empty to enhance the sense of isolation and loneliness.
  7. The film's tagline, "In space, no one can hear you scream," is widely regarded as one of the most memorable and effective taglines in film history.
  8. The success of "Alien" spawned a franchise that includes several sequels, spin-offs, and prequels, as well as comic books, video games, and other forms of media.

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About the author Jimmy Jangles


My name is Jimmy Jangles, the founder of The Astromech. I have always been fascinated by the world of science fiction, especially the Star Wars universe, and I created this website to share my love for it with fellow fans.

At The Astromech, you can expect to find a variety of articles, reviews, and analysis related to science fiction, including books, movies, TV, and games.
From exploring the latest news and theories to discussing the classics, I aim to provide entertaining and informative content for all fans of the genre.

Whether you are a die-hard Star Trek fan or simply curious about the world of science fiction, The Astromech has something for everyone. So, sit back, relax, and join me on this journey through the stars!
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