Aliens (HBO)

About Aliens (HBO)

"Aliens" is a 1986 sequel to the movie "Alien," both of which are iconic films in the science-fiction genre. Directed by James Cameron, the film is set 57 years after the original, with Ellen Ripley being the only survivor from the first Alien experience. Discovered by a deep space salvage team, Ripley is shocked to learn that the moon she first encountered the Alien creature has been colonized. After communication is lost with the colony, she agrees to return as an advisor to a team of tough, rugged space marines with lots of firepower. To their dismay, they find an entire colony inhabited by the Alien creatures.

Making / Production

The production of "Aliens" was a massive undertaking. James Cameron took the helms of direction after Ridley Scott, who directed the first part. There was extensive use of miniatures and matte paintings to create the convincing outer space images. Stan Winston, the mastermind behind many famous movie creatures, designed the Alien creatures.

Actors

• Sigourney Weaver as Ellen Ripley: Weaver reprised her role and delivered an intense performance. Her portrayal of a tough, headstrong woman fighting for survival was widely acclaimed.
• Michael Biehn as Corporal Dwayne Hicks: Biehn's character, Corporal Dwayne Hicks, was a dedicated soldier who becomes an unexpected hero.
• Bill Paxton as Private William Hudson: Paxton rendered a great performance as a comic relief yet brave marine.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• This film was one of the earliest movies to show a realistic depiction of future military technology.
• "Aliens" was novelized by its scriptwriter, James Cameron, released simultaneously with the film.

Awards

"Aliens" won two Academy Awards, one for Sound Effects Editing, and another for Visual Effects. Sigourney Weaver was also nominated for Best Actress, which was a rare honor for actresses in science fiction films.

Quotes

• "They mostly come out at night, mostly." - Newt
• "That's it, man. Game over, man. Game over!" - Private Hudson
• "Get away from her, you b***!" - Ellen Ripley

Music, Soundtrack

• The film's eerie and suspenseful soundtrack was composed by James Horner, contributing immensely to the film's tense atmosphere.