Columbia Pictures | Release Date: March 24, 2017
6.3
USER SCORE
Generally favorable reviews based on 564 Ratings
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Positive:
309
Mixed:
182
Negative:
73
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10
SMQRSKEETMar 25, 2017
What an unexpectedly awesome film. I would give it an 8 in normal circumstances but to get rid of dem h8rz I shall increase it to 10. I had no idea what this movie was going to be about, other than knowing astronauts find some bacteria andWhat an unexpectedly awesome film. I would give it an 8 in normal circumstances but to get rid of dem h8rz I shall increase it to 10. I had no idea what this movie was going to be about, other than knowing astronauts find some bacteria and after it I just wanted to talk to someone about it. When you see it you will know why.

It had some similarities to alien in the end which is by no means a bad thing. A difference I suppose is that alien has some movie moments in terms of the characters and what they do whereas in this it plays more like an accurate representation of what would happen should our brothers and sisters up there find some new species or bacteria.

After this I won't even ready any reviews or synopsis of films before going to see them. It saddens me that people are put off by negative reviews, when there is a strong possibility that they could or would love the film in question.

The CGI in this movie is unreal and the film is visually stunning. There is great character relationships and a whole lot of bum clenching moments, without delving into spoilers I will say you will touch your face in 'ermagerdage' once or twice. What would you do on a ship if things potentially went wrong? Where would you go?
I thought this was a brilliant original film and would love to see a sequel to this.
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16 of 36 users found this helpful1620
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7
russiangamerMar 30, 2017
Диалоги скучные, местами ужасно знакомые и предсказуемые. Но триллер, мясо, саундтрек, концовка - это выполнено хорошо. Итог: Один раз посмотреть можно, вполне неплохо.Диалоги скучные, местами ужасно знакомые и предсказуемые. Но триллер, мясо, саундтрек, концовка - это выполнено хорошо. Итог: Один раз посмотреть можно, вполне неплохо.
3 of 3 users found this helpful30
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7
ivan_terribleMar 29, 2017
This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. The movie is pretty decent, cgi is good and the story line is adequate. It lacks intensity and not scary enough. Everyone dies and as we know it, human race has come to an end. If you like bad ending, this is for you Expand
2 of 2 users found this helpful20
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9
TheDarkKnight65Jan 22, 2019
This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. I got to say, a pretty good sci fi movie. I was also surprised that the movie was also a horror/thriller movie. Not to violent but there is one part where Ryan Reynolds' character is attacked and eventually blood just pours out of his mouth. There is a twist ending. Very good movie though. I recommend it to people who like sci fi and "partial" horror movies. Expand
2 of 2 users found this helpful20
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7
badgerryan19May 19, 2017
Great movie. Everyone gives a great performance. This is probably one the most intense films I've ever seen the theater. I'm happy the trailer does not give too much away in the actual film which a lot of movies do now. The movie definitelyGreat movie. Everyone gives a great performance. This is probably one the most intense films I've ever seen the theater. I'm happy the trailer does not give too much away in the actual film which a lot of movies do now. The movie definitely has similarities with alien and other space films but I think this one does enough to separate itself from other ones. Had a great time. Expand
1 of 1 users found this helpful10
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8
dashtagMay 4, 2017
A big surprise! When I saw the trailer, I was like, no way is this going to be good. It's copying Alien! Well it turns out, this movie does a better job than Alien in my opinion! Life is a fun, smart, and creepy movie that is perfect for aA big surprise! When I saw the trailer, I was like, no way is this going to be good. It's copying Alien! Well it turns out, this movie does a better job than Alien in my opinion! Life is a fun, smart, and creepy movie that is perfect for a Friday Night or anytime. I love the cast, ending, directing, editing and the visuals are great! This movie really doesn't deserve the hate, even if it copies Alien. Go See Life! Expand
1 of 1 users found this helpful10
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8
DavidSpecialMar 8, 2018
Solid sci-fi / horror film. Nothing particularly new here but suspenseful in parts, never not entertaining and some great camera work by Seamus McGarvey.
1 of 1 users found this helpful10
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8
gdiego135Mar 24, 2017
This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. I don't understand all the hate, the cast for this film is fantastic, and finally Ryan Reynolds isn't the main lead. I know there has been many alien films that can and will be put above this one, I give props to the writers for killing of Reynolds first, because I don't think anyone expected that, and just the way he died was so much more horrifying, because he is always the one who lives, and you just see his blood burst from his mouth and floating around because of zero gravity, it's a disturbing yet beautiful scene. And the ending my lord, actually when Reynolds died i hoped they all would die, just so they don't follow the "good guys always win cliche, and i got my wish even though it was sad to see them all die, especially the Japanese man who just had a baby. It's just movies now a days are so predictable, like the next avengers movie, you know their gonna defeat the bad guy, or the new justice league, it's obvious their going to win, but that's not the case in this film and that's why I love it. Expand
8 of 9 users found this helpful81
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7
moviecritic68Mar 24, 2017
Kept my attention the entire time but wasn't quite up to matching the frightful drama like 'Aliens'. Bottom line ... if you are a SciFi buff this will suit your fancy but I assume the lower ratings are given by non SciFi buffs.
6 of 7 users found this helpful61
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8
LoveeLandMar 25, 2017
I don't understand why this movie is receiving hate and such mediocre reviews. I found it to be incredibly gripping, suspenseful, and utterly thrilling for its entirety. The story isn't anything special but its a horror film so that comesI don't understand why this movie is receiving hate and such mediocre reviews. I found it to be incredibly gripping, suspenseful, and utterly thrilling for its entirety. The story isn't anything special but its a horror film so that comes with the territory. None of the great horror films have a jaw dropping, Shawshank Redemption level story, so ignore those criticisms. I really appreciated the fact that there were no stupid movie character mistakes in this film, which seem all too common in the horror genre. As mentioned above, the movie keeps you hooked from beginning to end which I think is the most important thing for a horror movie. The movie doesn't give an obvious main character, making nobody safe. The way they went about ending the movie I think is classic (You'll have to go see it to know what I mean). The acting is excellent in this movie. Not a single one of them fails to deliver a great performance. They know how to act scared and distressed. During the scene in the trailer when the alien grabs the doctor's hand, his reaction is superb. The only criticism I can levy in terms of acting is at times the accents didn't seem that great, but that's a small thing.

The best part of the movie is the originality of the creature. I give this crew a lot of credit for putting serious effort into creating a believable monster (they hired scientists to help design the thing) that doesn't disappoint. Watching the alien grow and evolve throughout the film is spectacular, and I personally found it to be the most believable alien lifeform I've ever seen in a movie. So while the movie does borrow a similar plot from the original Alien movie, I think it deserves credit for having an original, terrifying monster, fantastic acting, a beautiful setting that I haven't seen in a horror film before (the fact that its in zero gravity), and just the right amount of violence that doesn't just gross you out the way Prometheus did. All that being said, its a fantastic movie that i'd recommend to everyone!
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8 of 11 users found this helpful83
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8
TVJerryMar 30, 2017
The crew of the International Space Station (which includes Ryan Reynolds & Jake Gyllenhaal) intercepts a satellite from Mars and guess what it possesses? Hint: see title. It's a beautifully-designed organism and the havoc it causes resultsThe crew of the International Space Station (which includes Ryan Reynolds & Jake Gyllenhaal) intercepts a satellite from Mars and guess what it possesses? Hint: see title. It's a beautifully-designed organism and the havoc it causes results in several tense moments. There are also some slow parts and a few ruptures in the logic that make it hard to swallow (how did that ending happen?). The overly ominous soundtrack is almost obnoxious. Even so, it's an old concept that's given a unevenly compelling new take. Expand
2 of 3 users found this helpful21
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7
Compi24Mar 28, 2017
Is this movie basically "Alien's" conceptual twin? Pretty much. But underneath all of those superficial parallels to Ridley Scott's 1979 sci-fi classic is a more grounded and timely piece than you'd expect. Featuring solid performances fromIs this movie basically "Alien's" conceptual twin? Pretty much. But underneath all of those superficial parallels to Ridley Scott's 1979 sci-fi classic is a more grounded and timely piece than you'd expect. Featuring solid performances from every actor involved and a bevy of creative uses in store for the claustrophobic setting at hand, "Life" marks a relative high note in the careers of director Daniel Espinosa and co-writers Rhett Reese and Paul Wernick. And, though, the ending kind of bummed me out, I would still say the overall experience was a lot more fun that I had ever anticipated. Expand
2 of 3 users found this helpful21
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7
GinaKMar 29, 2017
I enjoyed this movie. Yes, it had a “monster” similar in its stick-to-itiveness (literally in this case) to Alien. Yes, the crew moved about their spaceship just like in Gravity. Yes, the ending seemed a bit forced. But the acting was veryI enjoyed this movie. Yes, it had a “monster” similar in its stick-to-itiveness (literally in this case) to Alien. Yes, the crew moved about their spaceship just like in Gravity. Yes, the ending seemed a bit forced. But the acting was very good (even though the men had more distinctive personalities than the women), the script was good, and the action was well-paced and never boring. So I have nits to pick, but generally I thought the film was well done and never boring. If you like science fiction films as I do, you should enjoy this one. It’s well-made, even if not very original. Expand
2 of 3 users found this helpful21
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8
BrianMcCriticJun 20, 2017
This is a film that knows what it is and delivers exactly that. There isn't much fluff here, very little backstory. The alien is there and they must try and kill it. The simple premise doesn't change the fact that there are some real tenseThis is a film that knows what it is and delivers exactly that. There isn't much fluff here, very little backstory. The alien is there and they must try and kill it. The simple premise doesn't change the fact that there are some real tense moments and the film is very well made. A- Expand
2 of 3 users found this helpful21
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8
romanontherunMar 30, 2017
Very enjoyable film, very grounded with some clever ideas.
It's not ideal, and certainly not on par with Alien, some characters are lacking, but still one of best sci-fi movies of recent times.
2 of 3 users found this helpful21
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8
Jess_HillApr 14, 2017
The cold expanse of space has always been ripe for chilling forays into the perils of undiscovered life, and this film delivers a compelling exploration of the potential such a discovery might entail. The performances are polished, though theThe cold expanse of space has always been ripe for chilling forays into the perils of undiscovered life, and this film delivers a compelling exploration of the potential such a discovery might entail. The performances are polished, though the script lacks depth; you don't feel particularly connected to the characters, which results in a lack of emotional resonance. The cinematography is exceptional, and the visual effects and creature design are inspired. There are some horrifying moments, and the pacing keeps the tension taut throughout the film right up to the breathtaking climax. In the tradition of Alien, though nowhere near as sublime, this is a well crafted sci-fi thriller well worth your time. 8.43/10 Expand
2 of 3 users found this helpful21
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9
igorcgarciaApr 5, 2017
The movie is well developed, great acting from all of the actors and is a different type of horror, it is not an Alien reboot, but a homage to it, and has it's own plot and an interesting and debatable ending to it.
2 of 3 users found this helpful21
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9
laidoffgamerMar 31, 2017
This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Why is Life a good movie when so many critics are saying the opposite? First you must consider the fact that a movie about an alien killing humans is going to automatically be compared to Alien(s) on this face value alone. However Calvin is no Xenomorph. Calvin has no desire to implant fear or babies into it's victims. Calvin wants what most of us want, to live and be left alone. Unlike the hilarious men in rubber suits though, Calvin's CGI makeup separates it from humans. Where the Xenomorph has found a warm place in many critic's hearts, Calvin finds hate. Just like the Captain of the mission, you grow to hate Calvin for simply surviving and existing. Where the Xenomorph makes us laugh with its inability to control its own spittle while simultaneously intelligently murdering everyone for simply being there, Calvin makes us angry, and scared. In fact the primary reason one would walk away from Life with disappointment is because us humans didn't win. Life isn't trying to present to you another impossible space Marine who saves everyone with fire, it's presenting the consequences of thinking we are the best and can win any fight vs creatures severly more advanced than us. It doesn't do everything right, some parts drag, but when you think about the reality of the situation, it's all very plausible. Calvin is not a rampaging murderer, it's alone, attacked, and as our dear biologist states "just trying to survive". Imagining that a group of intellectuals who's logics revolves around managing a space station everyday, would somehow become the guardians of the galaxy, well, you decide what you think, but I'm rather pleased that Calvin showed them where there's a will there's a way. Expand
2 of 3 users found this helpful21
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7
Patryk02099xApr 2, 2017
"Life" may look like another "Alien" but in fact it's mix of more movies and in the end when you watch it you doesn't feel that it's big copy of something else. Probably you won't find in it original things but it's pure entertainment and for"Life" may look like another "Alien" but in fact it's mix of more movies and in the end when you watch it you doesn't feel that it's big copy of something else. Probably you won't find in it original things but it's pure entertainment and for its own luck it doesn't want to be something more. There is a lot of great actors but like about story they don't create nothing original. Jake Gyllenhaal is like his character in "Source Code", Ryand Reynolds is Deadpool in space and Hiroyuki Sanada plays modern samurai. On the other hand there is nothing bad about it because they all are still good and you enjoy watching them. Expand
2 of 3 users found this helpful21
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7
eagleeyevikingMar 25, 2017
This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. As far as 'Alien' knockoffs go, 'Life' tops the rest with edge of your seat thrills, a tense tone, a cast that alleviates the more boring moments and a devastating twist in the end. Expand
6 of 10 users found this helpful64
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8
AcaciaMar 26, 2017
I saw this movie with my husband and we both thought it was fantastic. The person sitting next to me in the theater, let out a big "Wow!" When the movie ended. I have no quibble with any part of this film. It is well done, well acted andI saw this movie with my husband and we both thought it was fantastic. The person sitting next to me in the theater, let out a big "Wow!" When the movie ended. I have no quibble with any part of this film. It is well done, well acted and well paced. Is it as great as "Alien(s)"? No. But it is scary and creepy and suspenseful. I was certainly entertained. Expand
6 of 10 users found this helpful64
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9
schmoresMar 25, 2017
While it follows all of the standard tropes of recent space horrors it executes them with a methodical, scientific approach that makes the ensuing carnage that much more savage and visceral. Some of the scenes had me wincing! Well acted, wellWhile it follows all of the standard tropes of recent space horrors it executes them with a methodical, scientific approach that makes the ensuing carnage that much more savage and visceral. Some of the scenes had me wincing! Well acted, well produced, very pretty to look at and effectively paced, it's not an Oscar nominee by any stretch but if you want two hours of decent sci fi entertainment I'd highly recommend it! Expand
4 of 7 users found this helpful43
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9
DevilGearHill66Mar 26, 2017
I am very sorry, but the fact that this movie sits in "avarage" is a exact reason why I am absolutely assured people have no standards of their own. The movie is very well scripted, very well executed and as such should be very wellI am very sorry, but the fact that this movie sits in "avarage" is a exact reason why I am absolutely assured people have no standards of their own. The movie is very well scripted, very well executed and as such should be very well received.
The entire premise of the movie itself has little to nothing to do with "Alien", believe me. Also, the horror in this flick is presented in a very sub-contextual way... By the time movie ends in the most disturbing way it was possible TO end it viewer realizes why exactly the alien life cell was discovered on Mars and the connotations of this realization will, eventually, bring anybody's mind into a state of silent horror.
This movie is outstanding. It understands the pacing, the method of delivering understated fear and most of all it has perfect knowledge of the subject matter.
I created an account here to write how good this movie is on a site I rarely have interest in and I hope it means something.
The mere fact that human beings out there give this motion picture, this evolution of space horror, low scores gives me this sad feeling that humanity doesn't deserve protection...
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6 of 11 users found this helpful65
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8
AmadeusMozartMar 25, 2017
This movies is actually great. Being very entertaining and innovative from the beggining, I think it deserves much more than what it is actually getting.
4 of 8 users found this helpful44
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9
HerrKapitan9Mar 26, 2017
Life... i was really looking forward this movie and i have to say it nails it!, I mean, yeah is not Alien of some other similar cult classic, but Life is a very grounded, realistic and dramatic approach to an scenario where things could goLife... i was really looking forward this movie and i have to say it nails it!, I mean, yeah is not Alien of some other similar cult classic, but Life is a very grounded, realistic and dramatic approach to an scenario where things could go wrong during experiments with an unknown extraterrestrial specie and damn it turns wrong hard. The setting was confined, dark and cold as you could imagine space, the overall acting is pretty good, and it has a pretty cool twist with one of the characters that i thought was genious, the CGI is very tight and the pace of the movie is always moving, along the threats inside the ship. I got constantly entertained and there's a lot of danger sense in the film if space wasn't enough. In resume, I think this movie hyped me even more for the upcoming alien covenant movie, and definitely worth my while and my $$ this time around. its a good movie to enjoy :) Expand
3 of 6 users found this helpful33
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7
rodogonioMar 28, 2017
Despite its many tropes, solid performances, high production values and a realistic approach to the space-horror genre turn Life into an enjoyable yet forgettable experience.
2 of 4 users found this helpful22
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7
SchroederRockJun 7, 2017
I had zero expectations for this movie and decided to watch it 1/2 way through watching its trailer. I like sci-fi thrillers so this seemed like a good fit for me. For the most part, it was. The cast is strong but doesn't get much time toI had zero expectations for this movie and decided to watch it 1/2 way through watching its trailer. I like sci-fi thrillers so this seemed like a good fit for me. For the most part, it was. The cast is strong but doesn't get much time to develop before the story gets into full swing, which hurts the film throughout. Still, you'll probably get wrapped up in the suspense as the crew are pushed into full fledged survival mode within the first 20-30 minutes of the film and the rest is a bit of a roller coaster ride. It's a monster vs man story and it has a fantastic budget for a B-level film (the special effects are very good). If the characters would have been developed a bit more I think this would have been highly rated. Expand
1 of 2 users found this helpful11
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7
SkulbJun 14, 2017
A pretty good movie, although a bit cheesy. Still, it's about ten times better than Gravity was, and a little similar, so I have to up the score just based on that. I felt very cheated by that movie, and Life makes up for it at least a littleA pretty good movie, although a bit cheesy. Still, it's about ten times better than Gravity was, and a little similar, so I have to up the score just based on that. I felt very cheated by that movie, and Life makes up for it at least a little bit.

Life is a decent sci-fi realism movie about something that is possible, if not very probable. As always, it is not too realistic at times though. An escape capsule with directional thrusters only is somehow supposed to generate enough thrust to reach escape velocity. Just all sorts of no on that from anyone who knows the first thing about orbital navigation. You would need a big burst lasting a few minutes to do this. Still, after Covenant I have lost faith in my Hollywood scientists and barely noticed this and other, slightly less ridiculous things. It is also the only thing that is completely ludicrous from a scientific standpoint, so I'll give it a pass.
But Life is a pretty awesome horror story anyway, in the same mold as the inevitable Alien. It isn't as good as Alien, but it might have been with a little more thought put into the characters and their behavior and dialog. For example, why do ALL the characters have to have the same sappy reaction to a crew member dying? Can't one of them at least show some, I don't know, rage? Confusion? Resolve in a crisis? No, no. They all have to cry like girls because that's just how astronauts are; a very emotional group of people there. And why do they read children's books in the middle of an emergency? What am I watching here?
Anyway, and despite this awful and unrealistic sentimentality, the ending is just proper B-movie "surprise" cheese, and sort of rights the ship before you leave. Although at this point in the story they had the choice between two cliches that would both have been just as bad in different ways. I for one prefer the ending they chose, even if it is a bit worn by now.

Watch this instead of the awful Covenant. And if an occasion arises for any reason to choose it before Gravity and The Martian, go see Life instead.
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1 of 2 users found this helpful11
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7
LeZeeJul 13, 2017
Their historic discovery was not celebratable.

As I mentioned many times before, now is the trend of the space exploration in films. So there were many films like this one, but not all of them are received well. It was a decent flick, if you
Their historic discovery was not celebratable.

As I mentioned many times before, now is the trend of the space exploration in films. So there were many films like this one, but not all of them are received well. It was a decent flick, if you consider from the real world aspect, but definitely a very nice entertainer. Very tense plot, especially in the second half till the final scene.

This is a minimal cast film and the entire story takes place in an Internation Space Station in the Earth orbit with a lab facility. They've come from Mars with a soil sample to study for any sign of life. Their historic discovery does not become a happy event as they encounter life threatening trouble on-board. The remaining is to focus their rest of the mission that how it'll end.

This is the second film with the same name I've seen in the recent time. The other one was a biographical-drama starring Robert Pattison, but this is an sci-fi-thriller. Lots of big names in it, but the film did not make that kind of a big buzz. It was considered a good fictional space film. Kind of inspired by other similar themed flicks.

Lots of thrills, fast paced narration, a simple story with the nice visuals. From the Swedish director of 'Easy Money' fame. There were lots of speculations about its connection with other films. But nothing was confirmed by the filmmakers. I hope there will be a sequel, but this time it won't be same as the story might take place in a different setting. Overall, I enjoyed it and surely would suggest it if anybody asks me.

7/10
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1 of 2 users found this helpful11
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7
chidimeJun 3, 2017
My only major criticism of this movie which took it down to a 7 from an 8: It just doesn't make too much sense how Calvin gets so intelligent after surviving for just a a matter of days. If they had at least shown a learning period for theMy only major criticism of this movie which took it down to a 7 from an 8: It just doesn't make too much sense how Calvin gets so intelligent after surviving for just a a matter of days. If they had at least shown a learning period for the organism, that would have made things make one sense, and could have even been more tragic if the crew members were the ones who gave him that learning experience. It's not a bad movie at all so all the hateful reviews are just silly. But a 6/10 or 7/10 seems about right for this. Expand
1 of 2 users found this helpful11
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8
GuiRMDJun 16, 2017
Um "Alien" melhor do que o pobre "Covenant" conseguiu ser. Bons personagens, boa direção, suspense muito bem criado, você não sabe quem será o próximo a morrer pois não tem nenhum protagonismo superior entre um personagem e outro. GosteiUm "Alien" melhor do que o pobre "Covenant" conseguiu ser. Bons personagens, boa direção, suspense muito bem criado, você não sabe quem será o próximo a morrer pois não tem nenhum protagonismo superior entre um personagem e outro. Gostei muito, apesar de não ser nem um pouco original, faz muito bem aquilo que se propõe. Expand
1 of 2 users found this helpful11
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8
VadertimeMar 26, 2017
Absolutely terrifying. Not in the visceral sense of Alien, but in a more disturbing way. This very smart movie begs the question regarding the introduction of an exo-biogenic lifeform. What if this alien microbe wanted to survive at allAbsolutely terrifying. Not in the visceral sense of Alien, but in a more disturbing way. This very smart movie begs the question regarding the introduction of an exo-biogenic lifeform. What if this alien microbe wanted to survive at all costs? That's the scary stuff that can keep you up at night. Expand
3 of 7 users found this helpful34
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9
RelaxedmikeMay 8, 2017
I see people here making comparisons to Alien. Its not even close. I enjoyed this movie because the creature actually outwits the humans!! A nice twist for us..Afred Hitchcock types. I like the way the director makes us feel such an innocentI see people here making comparisons to Alien. Its not even close. I enjoyed this movie because the creature actually outwits the humans!! A nice twist for us..Afred Hitchcock types. I like the way the director makes us feel such an innocent little wormly thing is harmless..so thought the scientist handling the entity. But thats when the fun starts.....Would have loved to see what the creature did after he landed. But thats the sequel I suppose! Expand
2 of 5 users found this helpful23
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8
Ekoc_77Mar 25, 2017
well wasn't that a surprise? keeps you on the edge of your sit all the way through, good characters and what a villain! I enjoyed all the movie and besides the lack of story, still it kind of stands on its own right for what type of moviewell wasn't that a surprise? keeps you on the edge of your sit all the way through, good characters and what a villain! I enjoyed all the movie and besides the lack of story, still it kind of stands on its own right for what type of movie intends to be, i had a lot of fun :) Expand
2 of 5 users found this helpful23
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7
TheMetacritiqerMar 26, 2017
This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. While I went to see it cause of the lovable Rebecca Ferguson, the movie itself held its own. It's been a while since I've been so into the mortality of a character. I cheered when she got out of any particular hard place. And swore when I was confident this was it. I really wanted Miranda to live out the rest of the expendable characters(top 4...top 3...top 2!) By the very end I realized I was leaning forward throughout the whole ending sequence. It's really too bad she got screwed into certain doom. I was hoping as a further nod to alien(they also mentioned a "plasma cutter") the girl would outlive them all. I'm pretty sure that escape pod has a tracker though. Send in the Man of Steel!:) Expand
2 of 5 users found this helpful23
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9
TryASummersaultMar 25, 2017
4.5/5 The idiots that keep calling this "an alien ripoff" are mindless. Minor similarities in visuals and themes and actually Life had way more going for it overall. One of the most intriguing and suspenseful sci/fi horror's of all time with4.5/5 The idiots that keep calling this "an alien ripoff" are mindless. Minor similarities in visuals and themes and actually Life had way more going for it overall. One of the most intriguing and suspenseful sci/fi horror's of all time with one of the most incredibly brilliant alien creatures of all time. I know that the trailers make this appear to be another (cliche alien attacks a space crew horror film) with a big name cast of Reynolds and Gyllenhall, but this film is much more than that, and its intricacies and smart visual terrors blew my expectations away. It's wondrous space setting looks absolutely glorious within the ship and out of it into the galactic horizon with marvelous visuals that any sci/fi fan will love. The story is rather straightforward in the beginning with a group of 6 scientists on a mission to discover life on mars, and once they do it's all downhill from there, and it's an absolute thrill ride full of grim space trauma that you cant turn away from. The true star of this film is the actual alien creature that has to be one of the most perplexing and creatively cool aliens portrayed in any film. It was a genius evolving force to be reckoned with that wreaked bloody havoc in some of the most aesthetically pleasing brutal fashion I've seen. While you felt bad for the crew members dying, you also were amazed in the ways this alien resiliently executed them with its extreme ingenuity. The creature design/cgi of this particular alien takes influences from others we've seen in the past, but looked so awesome and satisfying and utterly terrifying in which it moved/killed/thought. It's easily up there with my other favorite aliens in film. Overall the acting was pretty standard though fitting and convincing enough for this type of film but did get better in the crucial last important act when more was on the line. There are some amazingly innovative twists that will leave you mind blown and disturbed simultaneously and definitely stick with you after the film. All in all i enjoyed this film way more than i anticipated and would strongly recommend for any sci/fi fan or just movie fan in general to see this. What a year for films 2017 has already been!!! Split, Wick 2, Kong, Life. Expand
5 of 13 users found this helpful58
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9
jtlatsMar 28, 2017
OMG! How are people not loving this movie? They were accurate in (Most) of their science. The protocols used to contain were right. The acting above and beyond in most places. The pacing is great. The way they kill off certainOMG! How are people not loving this movie? They were accurate in (Most) of their science. The protocols used to contain were right. The acting above and beyond in most places. The pacing is great. The way they kill off certain characters will surprise you.
And the ENDING! Yes! The ending alone was worth the money to see this movie let alone the rest of it.
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3 of 8 users found this helpful35
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10
LXQUICKJUSTICEJun 14, 2017
This movie was 10x better than ALIEN Covenant. The scientists generally felt like scientists, despite Ryan Reynolds being part of the cast. Jake Gyllenhaal was authentic as always.
2 of 6 users found this helpful24
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8
MarioVisionApr 20, 2017
Very solid sci-fi horror alien movie overall.
Plenty action & thrill till the end.
The actors did also very good job.
Generally it left me satisfied.
I recommend this pretty cool movie.
You should definitely go & see it on the cinema.
2 of 6 users found this helpful24
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9
Meth-dudeJul 12, 2017
It's a very well made sci-fi/horror movie. The acting was great, the action scenes were all well made and the atmosphere was quite intense. It might have been better if the blood wasn't all CGI and if "Calvin" was a practical creature,It's a very well made sci-fi/horror movie. The acting was great, the action scenes were all well made and the atmosphere was quite intense. It might have been better if the blood wasn't all CGI and if "Calvin" was a practical creature, instead of a CGI one, but all in all, it's still one of the best sci-fi movies I've seen in a while. Expand
1 of 3 users found this helpful12
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7
shoulderoforionJun 11, 2017
Anyone not digging this piece of fluff just doesn't know what a decent scifi monster movie is. LIFE's not going to win any awards or be included in the pantheon of best anything, but it was a beautiful space flick all the same. Recommended viewing
1 of 3 users found this helpful12
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10
andyjoefromindyJun 5, 2017
This movie has been criminally under-seen! Life is a 90 minute, zippity-zoppin', comet-ride, blast off, straight into the cold, dead black-hole of existential dread. It borrows a few creature-feature tropes from familiar places like "Alien"This movie has been criminally under-seen! Life is a 90 minute, zippity-zoppin', comet-ride, blast off, straight into the cold, dead black-hole of existential dread. It borrows a few creature-feature tropes from familiar places like "Alien" and "The Thing", sure, but it manages to stream-line and accelerate the action better than its predecessors until all thats left is one tender, juicy chunk of premium 100% sci-fi/horror goodies. For the sake of humanity, we can only hope that Life will catch on once it hits red-box. Seriously. If you think you might like this movie, you will love it. Expand
1 of 3 users found this helpful12
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9
KittyWhiskyMar 27, 2017
In the cinema I almost the entire film was stuck to her chair. Life is the best thing to happen to horror in space. Original the movie? You can draw Parallels with Apollo 18, and in particular with Alien. And it's not bad. The monster in theIn the cinema I almost the entire film was stuck to her chair. Life is the best thing to happen to horror in space. Original the movie? You can draw Parallels with Apollo 18, and in particular with Alien. And it's not bad. The monster in the film is quite original (the concept of the monster, though fiction, but still on Earth, you can draw an analogy with the slime mold). Life not so much horror, so much survival. You worry about the characters. If you think that they behave stupidly .remember that they are not ordinal, a terrible situation, when the brain just turns off. After this film don't even want people carried out surveys in the search for life in space - anything can happen extremely tragic. The final film is simply gorgeous! Acting pleased. Ryan Reynolds humor does not spoil the atmosphere, even he is very serious here. I liked Jake Gyllenhaal - he's a wonderful actor, I love his movies. All fans of Alien films with scientific themes, fans of horror movies immediately run to Life! Expand
2 of 8 users found this helpful26
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8
TheQuietGamerOct 17, 2017
Another entry in the post-Alien sci-fi horror scene. Life fares much better than it's contemporaries thanks to director David Espinosa's ability to craft tension and keep the tone free of aby cheesiness. The attention to detail brings aAnother entry in the post-Alien sci-fi horror scene. Life fares much better than it's contemporaries thanks to director David Espinosa's ability to craft tension and keep the tone free of aby cheesiness. The attention to detail brings a necessary dose of realism to the space station setting that makes a lot of difference. The complications and dangers inherent to their surroundings serves as a nice way of upping the difficulties the scientists face while trying to keep the intelligent and deadly alien lifeform from reaching earth.

Where Life doesn't succeed to strongly is in having it's talented cast play interesting characters that we care about. It's ultimately not too big of a deal as the whole point is basically about watching the alien kill them, but there are a few moments where we witness the cast have moments where they struggle with what they believe are their final moments. Because we form no connection with them, these moments are boring, lack meaning, and don't have any sort of impact on the audience. But hey, the death scenes are cool. Blood looks good in zero gravity. A few dull spots get in the way of thrills here and there, but overall Life proves to be a successful Alien-influenced horror flick. It's just a shame the talented cast aren't given much room to grow in their characters, but the alien does and it is fun to watch them fall prey to it. If you like these kinds of films, Life may not blow you away, but it won't disappoint either.
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0 of 1 users found this helpful01
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9
johntechwriterFeb 28, 2019
The most underrated science fiction film of 2017. I recommend Life because it pushes all my buttons for an SF film: 1) high quality production that makes you feel it's really happening in space; 2) an original, interesting, believable story;The most underrated science fiction film of 2017. I recommend Life because it pushes all my buttons for an SF film: 1) high quality production that makes you feel it's really happening in space; 2) an original, interesting, believable story; 3) an original and very nasty creature; 4) a small group of well-played characters you get to care about; 5) a storyline that grabs you because you never know what will happen next -- and your guesses are usually wrong; 5) a shocking ending.

If your priorities are like mine, and if like me you are a science fiction snob who thinks most SF movies are crap and you celebrate when a good one comes along, you will probably enjoy this film. I recommend you ignore the mainstream critics who for reasons that puzzle me sell this movie short. Ignore reviews with spoilers or comparisons to a certain Ridley Scott film because it is not at all like that film. Just watch the thing and be prepared for a great ride.
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0 of 2 users found this helpful02
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10
PanchogulJun 22, 2018
Independiente de las criticas y el rendimiento en taquilla, me pareció una película muy buena, quizás no sea la historia mas original del mundo, pero si que tiene bastante suspenso, la criatura y su inteligencia son realmente de temer...
0 of 1 users found this helpful01
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8
alejandro970Nov 28, 2020
"I am what I am, I don't look like anyone." This is how this film is justified, as it makes its effort not to be associated with Alien (1979), and does it well when it comes to generating tension in the viewer. To watch as you hum Life on"I am what I am, I don't look like anyone." This is how this film is justified, as it makes its effort not to be associated with Alien (1979), and does it well when it comes to generating tension in the viewer. To watch as you hum Life on mars? by David Bowie. It deserves a chance, especially for the end. Expand
0 of 2 users found this helpful02
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7
Kdog152Jan 27, 2023
Not a masterpiece by all means, but not awful either. I will say however, that the ending was rubbish.
0 of 1 users found this helpful01
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7
Obi-JonesSep 21, 2018
Better than the press have given it credit for. It seems that because it shares some similarities with the Alien franchise, the press have seen this as a negative and marked it down. Historically most sci-fi films are marked marked down byBetter than the press have given it credit for. It seems that because it shares some similarities with the Alien franchise, the press have seen this as a negative and marked it down. Historically most sci-fi films are marked marked down by the press upon release (Bladerunner & 2001 were not warmly received by all upon release). We need more sci-fi like this and less DC/Marvel rubbish IMHO. Expand
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7
Jes1310Feb 4, 2019
above average sci-fi Flick. Not quite Alien material, but the actors try and are doing and ok job. The spacestation and the nogravity environment Works very well. would have liked if it kept its slow pace instead of turning into a Space slasher.
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7
SpangleJun 25, 2017
Life may not re-invent the wheel, but it nonetheless shows that the wheel still has some spin left in its spokes. A film about the discovery of life on another planet, Life is another film that shows the dangers that could await us via theseLife may not re-invent the wheel, but it nonetheless shows that the wheel still has some spin left in its spokes. A film about the discovery of life on another planet, Life is another film that shows the dangers that could await us via these new lifeforms and the lack of knowledge we have regarding them. With its multinational crew trapped inside a spaceship with a single-celled organism named Calvin that quickly becomes a starfish-shaped monster from the depths of hell, Life is a rather typical science fiction horror film about people trapped in their metal casket, awaiting death. Fortunately, through strong direction from Daniel Espinosa, a good cast, and nice design all-around, Life becomes a film that may be cliched and run-of-the-mill, but manages to embody the strongest elements of the genre and miss many of the pitfalls.

Slowly building tension and constantly leaving the audience hanging before indulging in its horror movie antics, Life takes over a half hour to actually kill any of the crew. Introducing us to the cast, Calvin, and setting the scene in the lab where Calvin is held, we learn the intricacies of the ship, each members' role on the ship, and follow along as they study Calvin to determine what kind of life they found on Mars. Meanwhile, back on Earth, everybody is elated to find out life exists beyond Earth and eagerly awaits their return. As things begin to head south rapidly on the ship, Espinosa's film had managed to build the tension up tremendously and equally matches it with the proper sense of awe and anticipation. This is the culmination of humanity's constant search for life and, after initially falling in love with what they found, they discover that they should not have tried to find other life. Thus, Life becomes not just an expertly paced and structured horror film, but a great tale of disappointment and heartbreak with the whole crew grappling with both the crushing failure of the mission and the fact that they will all die. As a result, the film is not horrifying in the typical horror film sense - though it absolutely is, which is a credit to Espinosa's patience in the first act and the rising action - but is also horrifying on a truly human level. It is not just that they found an alien that wants to kill them, but it is their own ambition and hunger to find where they came from that is killing them and punishing them for their hubris. It is terrifying to watch play out and Espinosa manages to keep the audience constantly on the edge of their seat.

While the character's chaotic and hectic struggle to escape this alien can often get confusing, it never ceases to be compelling. Espinosa smartly drops in shots where the camera seems to be in zero gravity alongside the characters, often resulting in completely upside down shots or ones where the camera just floats freely in the room. Preventing it from ever getting nauseating, this technique is quite immersive and makes it feel as though Calvin is coming right for both you and the characters alike. By trapping the camera and the audience inside the ship with the protagonists, Life manages to be an intensely claustrophobic experience. However, the film manages to be equally as thrilling in non-claustrophobic moments when crew members must fix something outside of the ship or at the very end of the film. While it may be a bit predictable that it is coming, the ending is nonetheless just as chill-inducing as Kevin McCarthy's "They're coming!" warning at the end of Invasion of the Body Snatchers. While nobody yells that the alien is coming or anything, it is an ending that instills the same feeling of dread that made that classic science fiction film really end with a punch. Though Life is not as strong of a film and its ending feels rather obvious - no matter how much Espinosa tried to obscure this fact - it is still an ending that leaves the audience with a sinking feeling in the pit of their stomach.

Unfortunately, however, Life is certainly imperfect. Its predictability, no matter how good those predictable pay-offs may be, remains an issue. This predictability is largely derived from just how cliche the film as a whole is with the film never really taking time to try and make the experience unique. Aside from no robot character, the film plays out like a re-hash of Alien right down to the remaining crew members using escape pods to try and get away. While this film brings up "quarantine" and "protocol" more often than Alien, it nonetheless hits many of the same beats and leaves us constantly guessing where the new lifeform may be hiding as we watch along on a heat sensor used by the crew members to see where everybody is at a given time. Yet, in saying that, it is hard to not classify Life as the film that Ridley Scott should be making with his Alien prequel series. It is straight horror, tosses in some ideas about the dangers with finding new life on other planets, and yet never gets too philosophical.
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7
zedzdedJan 29, 2018
ok this movie has its flaws but it was really entertaining. interesting premise well developed and good acting and effects.

i do agree with one reviewer who mentioned the geography of the spaceship was a little bit lacking but this is
ok this movie has its flaws but it was really entertaining. interesting premise well developed and good acting and effects.

i do agree with one reviewer who mentioned the geography of the spaceship was a little bit lacking but this is something i only realised in retrospect and it doesn't get in the way of the enjoyment.

there were a few moments when characters did incredibly stupid things to further the plot which was just irritating but still worth viewing.
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9
TastyAug 18, 2018
Some scenes that weren't in prev sci-fis before. Hired scientists to consult on actual science, thus helping realism. I love the new alien! *chuckle*
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8
mbeckfordOct 27, 2020
It's best to see Life with zero expectations and knowing very little about the premise (e.g. don't watch the trailer). A tense thrill-ride with an excellent acting assemble.
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7
peterf28Oct 7, 2018
This could have been a great movie. Gyllenhaal is not a astronaut, he is too stupid for that role. But also other flaws are holding this movie down. But I love scifi movies so it is a 7.3/10.
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7
PeterAlexanderDec 6, 2017
The fear of the unknown is a horror device that works on so many occasions, as further demonstrated in Life. While the film has its flaws; it is entertaining, scary and dripping in atmosphere.
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10
geistreichesFeb 24, 2019
I liked it, critics don't get it they watch too much and can't just have fun with a movie anymore.. this one is great, good horror and mystery..
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8
electronicoffeeAug 26, 2017
Been a while since I've seen a fun and clever monster movie. Despite the intellectual trappings, it definitely is a monster movie and there's no lack of action- quite fast paced and lots of good gore and chase scenes. Saw the ending coming aBeen a while since I've seen a fun and clever monster movie. Despite the intellectual trappings, it definitely is a monster movie and there's no lack of action- quite fast paced and lots of good gore and chase scenes. Saw the ending coming a bit but overall a great film and the effects were pretty much an 8 or 9, making a CGI monster more than believeable. Expand
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7
MasterRileyJan 23, 2018
Life is an overall tense and entertaining sci-fi; it has a lot of similar themes and story beats you've seen before but surprisingly manages to create tension and horror through its main antagonist, Calvin.
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7
DominArsenDec 8, 2018
Life
Ce film.. Un début très bon, un milieu moyen et une fin excellente de méchanceté.. Je ne dis rien, car le monstre est trop visible ce qui a tendance à enlever la peur..
Regarde-le un soir.
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7
JPKAug 1, 2019
Decent Sci-Fi Horror
Life is no Alien, But it’s scares are definitely good enough to get a recommendation from me.
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8
Iamcritical86Jan 25, 2021
I liked it. Jake Gyllenhaal is a hot piece of ass so that made this easier to watch, I'm sure!
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7
skeletoroneFeb 29, 2020
Life doesn't offer anything new for scifi fans but is solid for what it is. The movie is shot well, the acting is good, the alien looks cool (not humanoid at all, which is a plus in my book), the space station looks believable. The ending isLife doesn't offer anything new for scifi fans but is solid for what it is. The movie is shot well, the acting is good, the alien looks cool (not humanoid at all, which is a plus in my book), the space station looks believable. The ending is a bit cliché but that's okay. Recommended Expand
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7
ErikTheCriticOct 8, 2018
This is a well-directed sci-fi horror movie with plenty of brilliant suspenseful scenes, superb use of CGI, and wonderful performances from the cast.
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8
DjakeirJan 30, 2019
If you boiled down this plot you would get a very unorginal story. However, when you add the characters and overall effect this movie manages to create you get a highly realised film that captures the realistic considerations a group ofIf you boiled down this plot you would get a very unorginal story. However, when you add the characters and overall effect this movie manages to create you get a highly realised film that captures the realistic considerations a group of people would have to make if extra terestrial life was found. It is this realistic mindset approach combined with solid film making that allows the cast to really follow through on this film, to deliver an enjoyable insight into a highly talked about scenario. The contrast with alien life to the very human characters in this film provides weight and genuine interest from the audience into the outcome of the story. The focus is not about gore, its not about a futuristic planetary exploration turned wrong, it's not even about death, but instead it is about Life. Expand
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10
julianm94May 22, 2019
una excelente trama, muy buenos efectos. y con una impresionante adaptacion de los hechos
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8
AWESOM-0Feb 4, 2020
In the event horizon, sunshine and Europa report vein. Good movie and I would prefer this kind of sci-fi 100 times more than the Independence Day type.
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7
badunkieSep 5, 2020
If you start this movie with the expectation that it will be entertaining rather than even semi-original, then you’ll probably enjoy it. I did. It’s Alien meets Gravity with a monster that’s a cross between the Stranger Things demegorgan,If you start this movie with the expectation that it will be entertaining rather than even semi-original, then you’ll probably enjoy it. I did. It’s Alien meets Gravity with a monster that’s a cross between the Stranger Things demegorgan, predator and alien, and it has a straightforward, predictable plot. Could have been heaps worse by current Hollywood standards. Expand
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8
JLauSep 25, 2020
This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. There's life on Mars and it's called Calvin, who evolves and starts killing those studying him on the ISS before going to Vietnam. Expand
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7
geewahJan 10, 2021
Nothing new to be seen here, but it is an effective and stylish take on the "alien takes over spaceship" genre.
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