Aliens

9

MovieManiac83Apr 23, 2015

Perhaps the best single word to describe James Cameron's Aliens is relentless. Tautly paced and expertly directed, this roller coaster ride of a motion picture offers a little bit of everything, all wrapped up in a tidy science fiction/actionPerhaps the best single word to describe James Cameron's Aliens is relentless. Tautly paced and expertly directed, this roller coaster ride of a motion picture offers a little bit of everything, all wrapped up in a tidy science fiction/action package. From the point when the opening half-hour of exposition ends and the real movie begins, Cameron barely gives viewers a chance to catch their breaths or ease their grips on their armrests as he plunges his characters from one dire situation to the next. This is one of those rare motion pictures that involves the audience so completely in the story that we're as worn out at the end as our on-screen counterparts.

Aliens takes place a half-century after the events in Alien. Ellen Ripley (Sigourney Weaver, reprising her role as the lone survivor from the first outing) has been in cryogenic sleep in outer space, accompanied only by her loyal cat, Jones, until a salvage ship discovers her and brings her back to Earth. There, she finds herself facing serious charges of official misconduct (she was responsible, after all, for the destruction of a space ship) and her claims about the alien are greeted with skepticism. She is stripped of her pilot's license and left to cope on her own with life in the future - a future without her daughter, who recently died of old age. Then, all contact is suddenly lost with the terraforming colony on LV-426 - the planet on which Ripley's crew discovered the alien. A corporation executive, Carter Burke (Paul Reiser), approaches Ripley with a proposition: accompany a military team to LV-426 as an advisor and have her pilot's license restored. She concurs, but with a proviso: they are going there to destroy the aliens, not to harvest them or bring them back. Burke agrees.

If Aliens was no more than a series of suspenseful, effectively executed action sequences, it would still be a superior motion picture - Cameron's grasp of what gives an audience a jolt of adrenaline is that masterful. However, the element that elevates Aliens into the sparsely populated stratosphere of great science fiction movies is character identification. We care about what happens to the men and women populating this film. Even the supporting characters, such as Hudson and Vasquez, have personalities - they're not cookie-cutter fodder for the aliens to pick off one-by-one. I'm not talking about complex characterizations here, but the likability factor (or, in one case, the detestability factor) is way up. It doesn't take long for us to land on Ripley's side and to start cheering her on.

Ridley Scott developed Alien as a horror film - a "haunted house in space." Cameron's approach is different. Aliens is a fairly straightforward action/adventure picture. The horror elements are still there (most notably in an early dream sequence and during the scene when the marines encounter the cocooned colonists), but their impact is diminished. Nevertheless, even though he changes the tone, Cameron remains faithful to the original (something that cannot be said about the later two installments of the Alien quartet). From plot points to visual cues, it is apparent that Cameron made a careful study of the first film before embarking upon the sequel. The aliens, based on the design by H.R. Giger, possess virtually the same grotesque look (shiny black skin, prehensile tail, row upon row of sharp teeth). The space ships, rendered using "old fashioned" special effects (i.e., model work, not computer generated), have the same workmanlike appearance - starfaring behemoths built to be functional, not aesthetically pleasing. In fact, it should be noted that, although the fx work in Aliens may not be state-of-the-art by today's standards, it still holds up reasonably well.

For James Cameron, who would go on to direct two of the 1990s most memorable motion pictures (the action-packed Terminator 2 and the all-time box office champion, Titanic), The Terminator may have been the movie to put him on the map, but Aliens announced him as a force to be reckoned with. For fans of the Alien series, Aliens represented an unqualified triumph, exceeding the expectations of the most optimistic faithful. (Unfortunately, the lamentable Alien 3 stalled the series' momentum, effectively trashing the emotional core of its predecessor while sending the franchise into a creative free-fall.) When it comes to the logical marriage of action, adventure, and science fiction, few films are as effective or accomplished as Aliens, and there's nothing on the market (either in theaters or on video store shelves) that will leave you as thoroughly exhausted.… Expand

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9

EpicLadySpongeMay 12, 2016

I know what you're going to say... "What took you so long!!!" Well, the funny thing is that I thought they wouldn't have Aliens in here, but I was calculated wrong after getting here. This is very rare for a sequel to get this much charm thanI know what you're going to say... "What took you so long!!!" Well, the funny thing is that I thought they wouldn't have Aliens in here, but I was calculated wrong after getting here. This is very rare for a sequel to get this much charm than the original.… Expand

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9

daviddelnorte23May 28, 2017

This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Después de ver 'Alien' me quedé con ganas de ver esta secuela de la que dicen que es magnífica. Y es que después de verla yo diría: "jamás una secuela fué tan buena". Yo respeto que 'Alien' es la original. Pero esta me gusta más en casi todo su metraje, e incluso me parece mejor por momentos. Aunque si es cierto que muchas fases de la película bebe de la original. El final de la película es probablemente uno de los tres o cuatro mejores que he visto. El momento Ripley saliendo con el robot para enfrentarse al bicho. Eso es épica.

Los personajes son maravillosos, asentandose ya para mi Ripley como uno de mis favoritos del séptimo arte. El resto son sensacionales, los marines, perfectamente explicados y desarrollados cada uno. A mi me encanta Vázquez o el sargento, con su puro, ese puro... La niña no molesta nada, al revés se convierte en un genial recurso narrativo y, por momentos, los tiene más puestos que la mayoría de marines. El guión como suele ocurrir en este tipo de películas, siempre hay algo que no encja del todo o que parece un poco absurdo. Pero en esta película, a excepción de un par de cositas, está bastante bien trabajado, elaborado y pensado. Y visualmente es increible, como están hechos los interiores, los nidos de los Aliens... genial para la época y el escaso presupuesto que le dejaron a Cameron.

En conclusión, 'Aliens' me encantó cuando la ví, creo que ha diferencia de la uno que iba más por el camino de la ciencia ficción, esta va más por el de la acción y el toque marine, hace que se diferencie de su predecesora pero mantenga la esencia y siga siendo buenísima. Un 9.… Expand

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9

VirgonoShakaMar 24, 2018

Oh my god, this movie is so awesome!! I could never expect that such a big shift of tone from the original could give such a great experience, filled to the brim with so many quotable and pump action moments. I can see why this movie isOh my god, this movie is so awesome!! I could never expect that such a big shift of tone from the original could give such a great experience, filled to the brim with so many quotable and pump action moments. I can see why this movie is quoted to dead and considered a classic, it definitely deserves the title. A must watch.… Expand

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9

Cameronius_113Jan 15, 2017

NOTE: I watched the Special Edition of the film, what the creators believe to be the true version of it, so there may be things I talk about in this review that aren't featured in the original cut.
Aliens was released in 1986 and was directedNOTE: I watched the Special Edition of the film, what the creators believe to be the true version of it, so there may be things I talk about in this review that aren't featured in the original cut.
Aliens was released in 1986 and was directed by James Cameron. The movie follows on from the events of 1979's Alien where the heroine Ellen Ripley wakes up from cryogenic sleep many years in the future and tries to explain her alien encounter story. When contact is lost from the now-colonized origin planet of the aliens, Ripley agrees to go with the marines to overcome her fears.
This film did indeed surprise me. I definitely was expecting it to be great but when I finished it I was quite surprised to believe that I actually liked this one more than the first which was something I wasn't expecting. This is one of the rare instances where the sequel is nearly as good as/as good as/better than it's predecessor and the amount of effort put into the film was impressive. This could've easily been a cash-grab film but the amount of effort put in shows how much respect James Cameron had for the source material and also how much the actors cared about it and wanted to make a worthy sequel and their enthusiasm for the project definitely added up to it being an amazing film along with all the other great things about it.
Something I love about this film is that it is very different to the first and offers a completely new experience rather than just revisiting plot elemnts of the original again. As well as being refreshingly different, it expanded on knowledge we learnt in the first much more too.
Ripley's character was developed much more in this film and her inner struggles were shown too which made for a more complex and realistic character. For those of you who don't know, the Special Edition of this film is the original cut as the one that ended up in cinemas was a trimmed down version as people weren't expected to sit through 2 and a half hours. One of the parts cut from the cinema release was a background about Ripley's daughter who she obviously didn't spend much time with due to her cryogenic sleep and her sadness over this event added much more to her character and also something else I'll get onto in a minute.
I thought that Ripley's relationship with the young girl Newt was great and had much more of an impact in the Special Edition; as I mentioned a minute ago, in the Special Edition we find out about Ripley's sadness of not being able to see her daughter which makes her basically treat Newt like the daughter she wish she still had which added much more of an emotional connection to it and I'm surprised that the daughter sub-plot was originally cut.
All of the side-characters each added something to the story and their chemistry with each other made them feel like real people too. Their characters were well-written just like Ripley's crew in the original and you felt a sense of danger when they were in sticky situations.
Something the movie did very well was keeping the tense atmosphere of the original while adding much more to it like great action and great sets.
The practical effects are fantastic, especially for the time. The quality of them help capture a sense of realism to it too and really makes it feel like these characters are somewhere that actually exists.
Overall, I thought this was an amazing film and I have nothing but praise for it. My basic overview of the film is that it incorporates many similar elements to the original, expanding them to a much bigger spectacle while adding much more too and this is why I prefer it to the original. As I said earlier, these two films both offer different experiences, this one being an action film and the first being a thriller. It probably depends which genre you prefer to determine which movie you prefer but either way I would still highly recommend this film.
8.7/10… Expand

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9

Mihael_Prislin0Dec 18, 2017

Best Cameroon's movie yet! Great action movie because it has aliens in it! It's not better than the first one, but still one of best space movies of all time!

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9

TheRussianatorMar 28, 2018

A worthy sequel to Ridley Scott's horror sci-fi masterpiece, James Cameron's "Aliens" has less scares but more bombastic action, more characters glowing with charisma, and outstanding CGI and make-up work.

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9

SerchvazJul 3, 2019

This movie is also a masterpiece sequel to an alien, it's no scary as the first one, this takes the franchise into the action type and also it does great, with an excellent plot and a wonderful performance by Sigourney Weaver.
Aliens is aThis movie is also a masterpiece sequel to an alien, it's no scary as the first one, this takes the franchise into the action type and also it does great, with an excellent plot and a wonderful performance by Sigourney Weaver.
Aliens is a worthy sequel to alien and a film you will enjoy and love.… Expand

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9

AWESOM-0Jan 24, 2020

One of the greatest sci-fi space themed franchises of all time, maybe the best. Movie paid homage to some great works and inspired so many more.

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9

KSArvindOct 30, 2022

This is such an engaging experience. This is a must watch. I really love to see such films being made.

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9

Steven1981Mar 18, 2020

Easily the best sequel to Ridley Scott's ALIEN made in 1979.. ALIENS has an all star cast such as Sigourney Weaver, Bill Paxton, Michael Biehn, Paul Reiser, William Hope... This time Ripley (Weaver) must do battle with the alien creatures andEasily the best sequel to Ridley Scott's ALIEN made in 1979.. ALIENS has an all star cast such as Sigourney Weaver, Bill Paxton, Michael Biehn, Paul Reiser, William Hope... This time Ripley (Weaver) must do battle with the alien creatures and she joined by a musclebound gathering of marines and excellent vehicles and ship designs. Aliens is action packed and very entertaining. Excellent film... 9/10… Expand

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9

MrPajamasFeb 4, 2021

Alien is one of the best films ever, so I had no expectations from the sequel. In short, I thought that something as masterful as the first Alien could no longer be overcome, and it succeeded. The second Alien is a little better than theAlien is one of the best films ever, so I had no expectations from the sequel. In short, I thought that something as masterful as the first Alien could no longer be overcome, and it succeeded. The second Alien is a little better than the previous one. Again an excellent story, the main heroine Ripley and an atmosphere that is as strong as in the previous work. Another MUST-SEE movie that you must not miss.… Expand

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9

NickTheCritickNov 12, 2021

James Cameron's Aliens is one the best sequels in cinema history. It is nearly as good as Ridley Scott's Alien of course and if Scott's movie is a masterpiece, this one comes very close. Cameron here puts aside what you have seen in the firstJames Cameron's Aliens is one the best sequels in cinema history. It is nearly as good as Ridley Scott's Alien of course and if Scott's movie is a masterpiece, this one comes very close. Cameron here puts aside what you have seen in the first film but without upsetting everything. While Scott's film had a thriller imprint in fact the alien was one only and you could only see it at the end of the movie. Here Cameron shoots a real action movie set in space actually. The Aliens multiply and the action scenes that see our astronauts fighting against the Xenomorphs are many and are all masterfully directed.… Expand

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9

HellHoleHorrorDec 30, 2022

Another all-time classic film that I enjoy every time that I watch it. It is the perfect compliment to Alien (1979). The first film was a claustrophobic suspenseful horror film and this is an intense action film. They are both equallyAnother all-time classic film that I enjoy every time that I watch it. It is the perfect compliment to Alien (1979). The first film was a claustrophobic suspenseful horror film and this is an intense action film. They are both equally entertaining. The vast majority of the special effects are convincing and realistic, my only gripe is the rear-screen projection as it looks washed-out compared to the foreground. There is so much truly stunning cinematography. Sound design continues the epic memorable trend set by the first film. The most memorable being the pulse rifle sounds. Characters are memorable and interesting except maybe Newt who can get a little annoying but overall that is a minor gripe. There are some truly awesome moments in the story that is perfectly told. The special edition is better than the theatrical version but it is very long! I love the action and evolution of the series. It is exciting and fun. I do usually prefer suspense to action. I loved most of the old-school ambitious effects. More action than horror, not a bad thing, very good action at that.… Expand

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9

DylanCRSep 7, 2022

While the first one did a great job on introducing the franchise and the alien , this one is better , more action packed, memorable characters like Hicks, Bishop , Vazquez and also shows Ripley at her full potential, I do not give thisWhile the first one did a great job on introducing the franchise and the alien , this one is better , more action packed, memorable characters like Hicks, Bishop , Vazquez and also shows Ripley at her full potential, I do not give this movie a 10 because I think that only a few movies deserve that ranking but this is definitely a 9.5 and even in 2022 the visuals hold up despite being like 25 years old, this is definitely a cult movie and a must see if you are a sci-fi fan like me , even if you are not a big sci-fi fan I bet you will enjoy this movie.… Expand

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8

AceIsCoolProAug 13, 2010

Awesome movie. A good film mixed with scary sci-fi and deadly action. Mysteries build up in the discoveries and you feel that you are part of the group of humans and you are about to die. 8.4/10

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8

Harry210Apr 15, 2011

Aliens is a worthy sequel to an already classic horror film. It differs slightly from Alien from the fact that it is more of an action movie in comparison to Alien, which is a suspense, sci-fi horror movie. No doubt, it still retains someAliens is a worthy sequel to an already classic horror film. It differs slightly from Alien from the fact that it is more of an action movie in comparison to Alien, which is a suspense, sci-fi horror movie. No doubt, it still retains some horror elements like the fact that the Aliens and facehuggers haven't changed in appearance and the disgusting Alien breeding process. However, even though this movie retains the same horrifying characters from the previous film, it's not as scary. Going down, the action route, I could where James Cameron was going. Because there are now loads of Aliens, they can afford to have loads of action and shootouts with the Aliens and still not be rid of the creepy creatures. If Alien was an action movie and the scientists were marines, it would be only about 5 minutes after the Alien had reached adulthood because there is only one Alien. This film introduces the Alien Queen, which now gives us a good explanation of how the Alien race came to be and how those dreaded facehuggers were made. I toughly enjoyed the plot and it moves at a faster pace from the previous film; no waiting for something to happen, although it takes a while for Ripley and the marines to find the Alien hideout. James Cameron has written a really good story and I found it really enjoyable to see Ripley (Sigourney Weaver) emerge as a determined, tough heroine, trying to protect Newt and battle against the Alien scum. Ripley forms a bond with this little girl and the final scene is a highlight of this fact, where Ripley has a one on one battle in a mech against the Alien Queen (which is pi**ssed off because Ripley torched all of her precious eggs). This sets the stage for a pretty satisfying climax to what is actually quite a long movie, longer than the first one. The line, "Get away from her you Bi**h" that Ripley says when a close up of her is shown while she is in the mech is possibly the best line in this movie; I love the way she raises her voice when she says the word "Bi**h!" It's almost like she's saying, "bring it on" in a rather more intimidating and threatning way. Ripley was definately scared of going after the Aliens with the marines at the start of the movie but she then learns to confront her own fear. The sets are again, astonishing and expand on the scope from the first Aliens. The special effects are really good; like the Aliens design and the fire effects of the machine guns that the marines use. This movie is just as violent as the first movie and one scene just made me go "Ugggh"; the scene when the android, Bishop gets sliced in half by the Alien Queen and this "Milk" substance pours out of his nostrils and mouth. James Cameron has made the right choice to make this an action movie rather than a suspense horror film because I couldn't really see what he could have done more with the Alien character in that situation. Although, this action packed take on the Alien series would be abandoned and return to the slow, suspenseful film in the next Alien film, Alien 3. In my opinion, Aliens is a brilliant sci-fi movie and is overall, the best Alien film I enjoyed in the series.… Expand

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8

jp992751Jan 25, 2011

A bit slow for the first hour but the last hour and a half really packs a punch and leaves you on the edge of your seat. The acting at times isn't the greatest (Sigourney Weaver just isn't a great actress) and their is some cheesy dialog butA bit slow for the first hour but the last hour and a half really packs a punch and leaves you on the edge of your seat. The acting at times isn't the greatest (Sigourney Weaver just isn't a great actress) and their is some cheesy dialog but for the most part Aliens is top notch Sci-Fi and even if you aren't a Sci-Fi fan you still might be able to enjoy it.… Expand

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8

grandpajoe6191Sep 29, 2011

"Aliens" is nevertheless a amazing film that beats its prequel. It has the same tense moments, but director James Cameron even skillfully added blockbuster components, making "Aliens" a more braver and bolder film then its prequel.

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8

watithink123May 5, 2012

This not the best Alien movie in my opinion. But is still a great movie. With lots more aliens and This is a great movie and a must buy. Aliens 8.1/10

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8

SantiagoMAKiiNAJul 5, 2012

"Choke on it and die already!" Words intended to quiet down a guy that was loudly chomping on pop corn during the early suspense scenes of this film. I've held on to those words with fondness. They symbolize the undying hunger in audiences"Choke on it and die already!" Words intended to quiet down a guy that was loudly chomping on pop corn during the early suspense scenes of this film. I've held on to those words with fondness. They symbolize the undying hunger in audiences for a good ass kicking film. And back in the day, this one kicked ass like no other.
I had read the script to this film and wondered where those additional atmospheric scenes had gone in that theatrical cut. It was truly satisfying to see that they had been sitting dormant in James Cameron's editing bin, and were now part of this Extended Cut. I won't give away all the goodies to allow you for a better surprise, but let's just say the additions are well placed and definitely help the establishment of plot and character.
It is fun to look back at Mr. Avatar and see the early makings of a phenomenal action director. The tough guys with damaged egos. Technology turned on its side. And, of course, the curiosity for alien races quickly becoming a predicament larger than expected.
For those of you who haven't seen this film, it's an action extravaganza centered around the Alien universe created by Ridley Scott in the film of the same title. Only this time the fun is not contained to one ugly guy playing hide and sick in a space ship. James Cameron's outing has a high count on casualties and enough opposition to take over a foreign country, or in this case, a small planet.
Where this film might benefit from an upgrade is in the special effects department. Which is an interesting comment to make in regards to a Cameron picture, since the guy got his start doing effect shoots. He practically invented the genre. But since my viewing of this film is taking place in 2012 and we have all been bombarded by the likes of Lord of the Rings and the Avengers, the effects clearly show the cracks in the shell.
Nevertheless, I enjoyed the film thoroughly and I would gladly watch it again. In fact, it makes for a perfect marathon if watched together with the first one.
This is sadly the last in the Alien series where the production was taking the future of the xenophorms with any seriousness. Yes, David Fincher was a very good call for the third installment, but it was also the moment when the studio decided to put the franchise in the hands of accountants with little regard for filmmaking, and our award winning director never gained the proper production tools to do the franchise any justice... All that being said, I am actually a fan of Fincher's version. It's just hard to follow up a gory gun fest like Aliens with an emotionally driven piece like Alien 3.… Expand

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8

SpangleAug 12, 2014

This is the rare sequel that is just as good as the first one. I think I would give the first one a slight edge, but that is no knock against this one because it was honestly awesome. Sigourney Weaver is fantastic here as expected as sheThis is the rare sequel that is just as good as the first one. I think I would give the first one a slight edge, but that is no knock against this one because it was honestly awesome. Sigourney Weaver is fantastic here as expected as she reprises her role as Ripley. The whole cast really does a very good job as well. The direction from James Cameron is also great and I liked the added action sequences, but I am glad that he did not ignore the horror elements brought by Ridley Scott in the first film. He did a very nice job blending the scares from the first one with a more actiony premise. This combination of thrills with the action is ultimately the film's largest success, as it makes it a very fun one to watch. It is hard to look away throughout because so much is always going on. The special effects were also, largely, good. There were some sequences that looked beyond fake, but all of the stuff with the aliens was convincing and well done. There are definitely some moments that feel a bit cliche here, but regardless of that, Aliens is a very successful sequel that takes what Alien did great and adds a little bit of greatness to it.… Expand

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8

Compi24Feb 13, 2015

James Cameron delivers copious and complex amounts of every simple thing that worked in Ridley Scott's seminal sci-fi classic. "Aliens" delivers more of the devilish creatures and creepy thrills that first frightened everyone in 1979, withoutJames Cameron delivers copious and complex amounts of every simple thing that worked in Ridley Scott's seminal sci-fi classic. "Aliens" delivers more of the devilish creatures and creepy thrills that first frightened everyone in 1979, without sacrificing compelling character development or an overall sense of logic.… Expand

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8

Rox22Mar 17, 2013

Truly a cult classic. In no way is this a good movie. It's cheesy, it's full of cliches, and there is little to no character development (aside from Ripley and Bishop a little.) But that aside, it is entertaining as hell! It's fun to watch,Truly a cult classic. In no way is this a good movie. It's cheesy, it's full of cliches, and there is little to no character development (aside from Ripley and Bishop a little.) But that aside, it is entertaining as hell! It's fun to watch, the music is appropriately timed. The action fits the situation and keeps you glued to the screen. The fights are as spectacular as they should have been. Overall: This movie is a SCi-Fi as they get. It's not Shakespeare, but it does define it's genre and has a mountain of catchphrases that everyone knows (at least one.) OK movie, but a whole lot of fun!… Expand

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8

TrilobiteGJul 26, 2015

Although the second act is slightly slow, Aliens is a fantastic sequel to the original film and is packed full of action, female empowerment and detailed monsters that have a realistic presence. I especially like how although the second actAlthough the second act is slightly slow, Aliens is a fantastic sequel to the original film and is packed full of action, female empowerment and detailed monsters that have a realistic presence. I especially like how although the second act is slow, you can still tell that the xenomorphs are on their way, and they aint happy.… Expand

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8

LaGuertaApr 29, 2014

Showcasing Weaver and bringing an action orientated feel and a different dynamic to the cat and mouse ambiance the original so brilliantly captured means this is arguably the better out of the two. Arguably.

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8

marcmyworksJan 13, 2014

James Cameron delivers the goods as he ups the ante in the follow-up to Ridley Scotts masterpiece. Taking place 87 years after the original, Ripley must now face those horrible monsters on a colony. Oodles of fun.

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8

Kenneth7693Nov 30, 2014

I know this movie is 28 years old, but it's still a cult classic. Now I have to be honest. I like the first movie more than this one. I not a fan of the military story-line. But it stil gets the atmosphere right like the first movie (which isI know this movie is 28 years old, but it's still a cult classic. Now I have to be honest. I like the first movie more than this one. I not a fan of the military story-line. But it stil gets the atmosphere right like the first movie (which is still in my opinion the best of the series). But the Aliens aren't as scary as the one Alien off the first movie. Don't get me wrong. This movie still makes you root for the good guys like none other, scpecially with the little girl's live on the line. This movie is much before my time but I am actually glad I saw Prometheus (all-though it's just a so-so movie) first. It closed some gaps for me for the first and this movie. I give this movie a 8/10. I would give it a 9/10 but I am just not a fan of the military aspect.… Expand

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8

darkbloodshed13Jul 18, 2015

This one of those few times I get to say that the sequel is better than the original. This mainly do to the difference in the directing by James Cameron and Ridly Scott. Cameron fast pace style gives Aliens the horror feel that it needs.This one of those few times I get to say that the sequel is better than the original. This mainly do to the difference in the directing by James Cameron and Ridly Scott. Cameron fast pace style gives Aliens the horror feel that it needs. While Scott's style is more slow, which is fine for sci-fi but for a horror it just does not fit. Of course if you prefer to look at Alien as a sci-fi than the first movie is for you. In conclusion these movies will vary depending on what you are looking for If you want horror then go with the second one but if you are looking for sci-fi watch the first.… Expand

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8

CinemaSinsMay 9, 2015

Perhaps the best single word to describe James Cameron's Aliens is relentless. Tautly paced and expertly directed, this roller coaster ride of a motion picture offers a little bit of everything, all wrapped up in a tidy science fiction/actionPerhaps the best single word to describe James Cameron's Aliens is relentless. Tautly paced and expertly directed, this roller coaster ride of a motion picture offers a little bit of everything, all wrapped up in a tidy science fiction/action package. From the point when the opening half-hour of exposition ends and the real movie begins, Cameron barely gives viewers a chance to catch their breaths or ease their grips on their armrests as he plunges his characters from one dire situation to the next. This is one of those rare motion pictures that involves the audience so completely in the story that we're as worn out at the end as our on-screen counterparts.

From the moment it became apparent that Ridley Scott's 1979 science fiction/horror film, Alien, was going to be a success, Fox began discussing the possibility of a sequel. For many years, the proposed Alien 2 languished on the back burner, lacking both a viable script and a director. Then, in 1984, a little-known filmmaker named James Cameron thundered onto the scene with a no-frills, gripping movie called The Terminator. The film's box office success gave Cameron some clout in Hollywood, allowing him to get a hearing when he pitched his version of an Alien sequel. Fox liked what he proposed and the project was greenlighted. (Consider how things have changed in 15 years - now, sequels are routinely given the go-ahead before there's a script or even an underlying premise.) Seven years after Alien reached screens, its belated, much-anticipated follow-up exploded into movie theaters, leaving patrons breathless and coming back for seconds and re-affirming that it is possible for a sequel to top an original both creatively and financially.

If Aliens was no more than a series of suspenseful, effectively executed action sequences, it would still be a superior motion picture - Cameron's grasp of what gives an audience a jolt of adrenaline is that masterful. However, the element that elevates Aliens into the sparsely populated stratosphere of great science fiction movies is character identification. We care about what happens to the men and women populating this film. Even the supporting characters, such as Hudson and Vasquez, have personalities - they're not cookie-cutter fodder for the aliens to pick off one-by-one. I'm not talking about complex characterizations here, but the likability factor (or, in one case, the detestability factor) is way up. It doesn't take long for us to land on Ripley's side and to start cheering her on.

The most touching human relationship in Aliens is the one between Ripley and Newt, with the childless woman caring for the motherless girl. The emotional payoff comes at the very end, and has less to do with the aliens' defeat than with the bond that has developed between these two characters. Many action films lack a heart; the Ripley/Newt element makes Aliens more than just a tightly-paced shoot-'em-up. And, when Newt is kidnapped by the aliens as a potential host for one of the aliens' face-hugger offspring, it raises the stakes by a notch, adding an additional layer of urgency to an already intense climax. Furthermore, Cameron has some more fun by contrasting Ripley's maternal relationship with Newt to that of the Queen alien and her "children", all of which Ripley is trying to destroy. The final struggle becomes that of two mothers pitted against one other.

Two versions of Aliens exist. The first is the theatrical cut, a 137 minute edition that Fox released in movie houses across North America during the summer of 1986. With a running time of 154 minutes, the second is James Cameron's official director's cut, which includes a number of intriguing scenes, including a lengthy sequence on LV-426 detailing events that lead to the colonists' obliteration. Although the additional material is spread throughout the film, the most telling moments occur early (including a key scene indicating how devastated Ripley is about the loss of her daughter), thus not damaging Aliens' overall momentum. Given a choice, the restored director's cut is the preferred version. (In fact, it may now be the only version available on home video, unless you frequent a video store stocking older tapes.)

For James Cameron, who would go on to direct two of the 1990s most memorable motion pictures (the action-packed Terminator 2 and the all-time box office champion, Titanic), The Terminator may have been the movie to put him on the map, but Aliens announced him as a force to be reckoned with. For fans of the Alien series, Aliens represented an unqualified triumph, exceeding the expectations of the most optimistic faithful. Unfortunately, the lamentable Alien 3 stalled the series' momentum, effectively trashing the emotional core of its predecessor while sending the franchise into a creative free-fall.… Expand

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8

JP32Aug 8, 2018

There are moments of greatness in Aliens, even if the general unvarnished quality sticks like a pebble in its shoe. The structure of the film and its "in-your-face" attitude carry the day, but even so, I find myself imagining how breathtakingThere are moments of greatness in Aliens, even if the general unvarnished quality sticks like a pebble in its shoe. The structure of the film and its "in-your-face" attitude carry the day, but even so, I find myself imagining how breathtaking the movie might have been if Cameron made it with the resources available to him in the 1990s or 2000s.… Expand

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8

zNeverSleepingSep 1, 2020

Ao contrario do primeiro, cuja atmosfera de terror não me pegou tão bem, aqui o clima de guerra funcionou muito bem. Ellen tem uma personalidade um tanto quanto admirável, e é bem divertido acompanhá-la. Os demais personagens não foram tãoAo contrario do primeiro, cuja atmosfera de terror não me pegou tão bem, aqui o clima de guerra funcionou muito bem. Ellen tem uma personalidade um tanto quanto admirável, e é bem divertido acompanhá-la. Os demais personagens não foram tão bem desenvolvidos quanto no primeiro filme, mas ainda sim a criança e o sintético me chamaram bastante atenção.

As cenas de tensão são ótimas, assim como o pouco de cybergore que há. O longa envelheceu bem, impressão que não tenho do primeiro visto todo apelo que a cultura pop tem com ele. Recomendado.… Expand

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8

DiptanshuJul 9, 2020

This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. "Special Edition Review"
Good sequel although not as great as 1st one,the story just after the 1st one and the whole plot with awesome time gap and situations were great and brilliant but the screenplay and pacing was little off!the music was good,the sound-effects were great,the acting and characters were amazing,the little girl and her story was dark and amazing her and Ripley's bond was sweet throughout the movie,the other characters the whole commando's team and captain with A**hole company man and great Android was amazing!the main concern about the movie was the build-up and the 1st full view of alien it felt like very long and after that the survival and intense situations with awesome action felt repetitive and long but the ending was mind-blowing and great,the starting Ripley's waking and the age thing and her daughter death was literally mind-blowing,the whole set-up and intro at start was great,the intro to soldiers and the situation on planet with the little girl and others was like it's gonna be awesome then the rescue mission with the 1st fight and the reactions to all crew after facing aliens it was literally brilliant.the over-confident members faces after fight were amazing although the deaths were brutal and the glimpses were dark and creepy after that the whole movie felt like that's it the excitement was gone,after that the Survival thing for all,the situations of ship and the dark moments with constant attacks from alien it felt repetitive and little boring,the whole last act was again back in action the betrayal of Company man and the relations and support of captain and Ripley and girl together was sweet and the darkest situation with chase at last it was awesome.the ending tunnel escape and sacrifice of soldiers with awesome turn of events for little girl and at last the rescue mission from Ripley to save girl it was literally awesome the fight at end after rescuing girl and landing other side was nail-biting,the last minute sacrifice of Android was emotional and great.the ending was satisfying and awesome with change of pace it was fast action-packed and amazing pay-off to stretched and long build-up it was amazing,the whole movie the story was brilliant and mind-blowing but the pacing and the Execution at middle-half was little disappointment although the end was incredible,it's an amazing and good sequel to the masterpiece prequel!… Expand

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8

r96skFeb 21, 2022

A better sequel to 'Alien' than I was expecting.

'Aliens' - love the creativity, guys! - is a minute jot off the original but it remains a thoroughly enjoyable film - despite a slightly longer run time, which pleasantly doesn't hamperA better sequel to 'Alien' than I was expecting.

'Aliens' - love the creativity, guys! - is a minute jot off the original but it remains a thoroughly enjoyable film - despite a slightly longer run time, which pleasantly doesn't hamper events. Sigourney Weaver is terrific again; I can see why these films launched her career.

I will say parts of this 1986 flick are a tad repetitive from the original and a few bits are predictable, e.g. the arcs of Lance Henriksen's Bishop and Paul Reiser's Carter, but when judged overall it's another entertaining release from this franchise.

I look forward to seeing if they made it a hat-trick with 'Alien³'.… Expand

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8

SamirhusejnovicMar 29, 2020

This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Besser als das Original, und das in jedem Punkt. Der beste Film im Alien–Franchise.… Expand

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8

OriginalDangerJul 4, 2020

Aliens is a sci-fi action more than a horror although it might scare kids.. Aliens was directed in 1986 by James Cameron who brought us The Terminator and Terminator 2....... Aliens see's the return of Sigourney Weaver from the original andAliens is a sci-fi action more than a horror although it might scare kids.. Aliens was directed in 1986 by James Cameron who brought us The Terminator and Terminator 2....... Aliens see's the return of Sigourney Weaver from the original and she's teamed up with a group of elite high tech colonial marines to blast the alien creatures to hell. Full of violence, gore, explosions, gunfire, humour and bad language I'd say Aliens pretty much hits the spot and delivers but even though it's one of the best films ever made in film history and I think highly of it it's still not as good as Alien which is the original but it's still pretty good. Aliens also stars Michael Biehn, William Hope, Bill Paxton and other cast members...… Expand

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8

HabibiehakimSep 12, 2021

It have some flaws, and overall movie for me personally was still less better than the first Alien, the story and the performance, but Aliens did have something better and more exciting than the first Alien, and that was the action, AliensIt have some flaws, and overall movie for me personally was still less better than the first Alien, the story and the performance, but Aliens did have something better and more exciting than the first Alien, and that was the action, Aliens have a lot more action, fire, gunshot, and explosion, Overall Aliens is not better than Alien but it still a great sequel and incredibly well made.… Expand

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8

HeroicAge616Oct 27, 2021

A ton of fun to watch, Aliens is intense from front to back, both building on and surpassing the previous entry.

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8

liamexeJan 16, 2023

The entire movie was exciting, compelling, and full of sci-fi thrills. This is one of my all-time favourite sci-fi movies because of the score. Also deserving of praise is the special effects crew. Definitely suggest. Much superior to theThe entire movie was exciting, compelling, and full of sci-fi thrills. This is one of my all-time favourite sci-fi movies because of the score. Also deserving of praise is the special effects crew. Definitely suggest. Much superior to the first.

James although i hated you before it has been revoked.… Expand

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7

imthenoobMay 11, 2020

Aliens is a worthy sequel to a beloved classic but doesn't quite match the original in overall quality. The plot lacks the tension the first film had, the characters and dialogue are not as good either. Aliens plays out as more of an actionAliens is a worthy sequel to a beloved classic but doesn't quite match the original in overall quality. The plot lacks the tension the first film had, the characters and dialogue are not as good either. Aliens plays out as more of an action film than a suspenseful one like the original one.

It's good but not great yet it still remains the only good Alien sequel we have ever gotten.… Expand

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7

btzneb92Aug 13, 2012

With all the discussions on which installment was better than the other, I honestly cannot say. The two are drastically different in tone, with the first film focusing a lot more in horror elements and has a more quiet subdued and mysteriousWith all the discussions on which installment was better than the other, I honestly cannot say. The two are drastically different in tone, with the first film focusing a lot more in horror elements and has a more quiet subdued and mysterious feel to it, while this film is a lot more balls-to-the-wall crazy and a lot more action-oriented than the earlier. To me, they're both equally great in their own different ways, along with the fact that they're both carried by one of the strongest female protagonists in cinema. The film has it faults though, mainly on plotholes. But still, classic.… Expand

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7

TheWalrus2000Mar 30, 2013

Stronger than before only it doesn't have the same feel. Sigourney Weaver's performance is beyond anyone's imagination and the visuals are a hell of a ride but for some Aliens doesn't have the same feel as the original. Maybe its becauseStronger than before only it doesn't have the same feel. Sigourney Weaver's performance is beyond anyone's imagination and the visuals are a hell of a ride but for some Aliens doesn't have the same feel as the original. Maybe its because James Cameron directed it I mean that could be the only explanation. The only thing James Cameron is good at is making mega box-office hits......… Expand

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7

sanyrubDec 24, 2013

A very good sequel to the original, which is hard to find in films, especially when the first one was so strong. It starts the perfect way, but soon it becomes more about the action than about the suspense, courtesy of James Cameron and hisA very good sequel to the original, which is hard to find in films, especially when the first one was so strong. It starts the perfect way, but soon it becomes more about the action than about the suspense, courtesy of James Cameron and his obsession with guns and technology. Entertaining from start to finish and once again Sigourney Weaver gives her all, just perfect. But it can´t beat the original, too much military stuff and too many aliens. Less is more in this type of films. Still really good.… Expand

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7

zapVJan 2, 2018

"Aliens" bears little resemblance to its 1979 predecessor, James Cameron departs from mysterious and claustrophobic approach of Ridley Scott. With this departure the movie gains in scale, action and accessibility to audience, but becomes less"Aliens" bears little resemblance to its 1979 predecessor, James Cameron departs from mysterious and claustrophobic approach of Ridley Scott. With this departure the movie gains in scale, action and accessibility to audience, but becomes less subtle and complex. In non-action parts Cameron explores themes of motherhood and woman's role in society, but overall we get pretty straight-forward characters and dialogues.… Expand

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7

amheretojudgeAug 3, 2019

Cameron's not looking for that shocking moment of catching-you-by-surprise, he'd rather cook you with the 20 seconds of anticipation of the known fear.

Aliens Cameron is born for the sci-fi genre and he doesn't take this talent andCameron's not looking for that shocking moment of catching-you-by-surprise, he'd rather cook you with the 20 seconds of anticipation of the known fear.

Aliens

Cameron is born for the sci-fi genre and he doesn't take this talent and aspiration for granted. As a result, what he has pulled off in here is almost impossible, living up to the expectation of an already cultural phenomenon, and for me, it exceeds the previous venture by Ridley Scott. And I only feel that it exceeds the expectations, is because it is incredibly difficult for the writer and director James Cameron to fill in on already infomercial pamphlet. And if you look at it properly, actually there is nothing new that he brings out plot wise in this chapter, it is another same adventure, they name it so unenthusiastically.

But it is the hypnotizing procedure of Cameron and self-realization of what it is. He is addressing the absurdity of the plot by not mocking it but acknowledging it seriously. And after the guns are loaded, premise set, his manipulation as a visual storyteller is extremely inspiring. Take the set pieces for instance. He has already painted these missions like some war invasion and with it he has drawn out the obligation over necessary elements.

Literally, unloading those responsibilities on his characters, he is stretching the claustrophobic and exhausting aspect of the job by confiding them in tiny set pieces. Most of the time, the set pieces are really small or are either have multiple characters roaming about, giving them less room to full flex their muscles and fight at their will. And even if he puts them on big pieces, he is focusing on their close up, where they are sweating and worn out by this whole fiasco. Mind you, Cameron hasn't even touched the fictional part of his storyline and you are already vulnerable. Aliens remains a classic, for no one after this focused on the day to day issues that human behavior exerts on each other; which is more horrifying than anything.… Expand

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7

akshatmahajanSep 26, 2020

Alien is a perfect sequel which is the kind of film that in some ways surpasses the original.

The character development was better. The special effects were good. The plot was good. But the runtime could have been shortened. It was littleAlien is a perfect sequel which is the kind of film that in some ways surpasses the original.

The character development was better. The special effects were good. The plot was good. But the runtime could have been shortened. It was little bit long.

Overall, you should give it a try and you will for sure enjoy this movie more than the first part.… Expand

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7

Pan_KrytykJul 31, 2022

druga część serii... trochę słabsza niż pierwsza, jednak trzymająca poziom... warto zobaczyć... choc kinomaniacy już pewnie widzieli

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6

rellimdetMay 25, 2012

This movie is a great movie, let me just start by saying that. The thing is though that if you watch this movie right after watching the first one it's just hilariously not as good. It makes me sad that it got a better review on here than theThis movie is a great movie, let me just start by saying that. The thing is though that if you watch this movie right after watching the first one it's just hilariously not as good. It makes me sad that it got a better review on here than the first one. The attention to detail, the pacing, even the dialogue is just simply not as magnificently put together as the original. It is a fun watch though and should be considered a classic. Just simply not better than the first one.… Expand

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6

TyranianApr 7, 2019

Not as good as first film but still good. Acting solid, plotting mostly engaging but less thrilling.

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6

RickyReviewsJun 22, 2016

Nowhere as good or suspenseful as the first "Alien" film, but the acting is good, and the effects are okay, but still not as good. Bill Paxton is hilarious in this one. However, the plot is thin, and generally seems more rushed in this one,Nowhere as good or suspenseful as the first "Alien" film, but the acting is good, and the effects are okay, but still not as good. Bill Paxton is hilarious in this one. However, the plot is thin, and generally seems more rushed in this one, despite being over 30 minutes longer than Alien. 6/10… Expand

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6

DudowskiJun 6, 2022

Gemessen am ersten Teil und ohne Nostalgiebrille oder den damaligen Zeitgeist, ist dieser Teil der Alien-Reihe um Welten schlechter als der erste Ableger. Jeglicher Horror und Spannung wird durch die schiere Überzahl an offensichtlich leichtGemessen am ersten Teil und ohne Nostalgiebrille oder den damaligen Zeitgeist, ist dieser Teil der Alien-Reihe um Welten schlechter als der erste Ableger. Jeglicher Horror und Spannung wird durch die schiere Überzahl an offensichtlich leicht zu beseitigenden Aliens im Keim erstickt. Einzig das gut gestaltete Umgebungsdesign lässt noch einen Hauch der Qualität erahnen, die 7 Jahre zuvor auf den Bildschirmen zu sehen war.

Dennoch gute schauspielerische Leistung und grandioses Sounddesign… Expand

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5

nabonabMar 27, 2022

I can't understand why people love so much this dumb action movie (it has the same score as the original Alien, which is a masterpiece, WTF!). Also, I hate the fake metal devices that looks like cardboard.

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4

LunarIndustriesOct 3, 2010

As an action film there are few better than Aliens, but a a sequel to Alien it hugely disappoints. There are few actual scares, of course there are thrilling action sequences, but nothing like the original nerve shredding moments in Alien. ItAs an action film there are few better than Aliens, but a a sequel to Alien it hugely disappoints. There are few actual scares, of course there are thrilling action sequences, but nothing like the original nerve shredding moments in Alien. It also destroys the representation of the Alien itself. We barely see it in Alien and when we do we are terrified for the characters and the threat of the Alien coming back to Earth is actually scary. In Aliens the creatures are mere cannon fodder, only in large numbers can the be intimidating. As action movie Aliens reigns supreme but as a sci fi or horror its older brother Alien is the one to watch.… Expand

3 of 19 users found this helpful316

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4

PanchogulJul 12, 2019

Siempre he escuchado decir que Aliens es mejor que su predecesora, en lo personal no le llega ni a la sombra, no es una mala película, al contrario es una de las mejores, pero decir que supera a la primera Alien no estoy de acuerdo.

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4

MindurbidnissFeb 28, 2021

The final "battle" sums it up what's wrong with this film.... Bigger isn't always better

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2

lilkillpappyAug 3, 2012

James Cameron wrote a **** script, and it shows as this film gets cheesier and cheesier as the years go by and Alien gets better and better as the years go by. Some of the acting was absolutely horrible, and the story was uninteresting, andJames Cameron wrote a **** script, and it shows as this film gets cheesier and cheesier as the years go by and Alien gets better and better as the years go by. Some of the acting was absolutely horrible, and the story was uninteresting, and lacked emotion. I wont deny that this was a fun action ride, but it doesn't even come close to Ridley Scott's film, and is not part of the franchise in my opinion. I own the Quadrilogy, and have watched these films probably like 50 times in my life time, and its funny how my first impressions of them have changed so much, and how the really good stuff just got better, but the hidden crap under James Cameron's film just started leaking out over time. Would have given it a higher score as an entertaining action film, but since its the sequel to a fantastic Art film, and it lacks any art on any level it completely fails.… Expand

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Aliens

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