Alien (1979) | Retro Review

We’ve started our Alien movie marathon a bit early (Alien Day is around the end of April), starting with this cult classic!

"I Can't Lie To You About Your Chances, But...You Have My Sympathies.” - Science Officer Ash

Alien, Ridley Scott's 1979 masterpiece, is a sci-fi horror juggernaut that still packs a punch today. Set aboard the claustrophobic confines of the spaceship Nostromo, the film follows a crew responding to a distress call on a remote planet, only to encounter a nightmarish alien organism that spells doom for them all.

What makes Alien so darn captivating is its slow-burn approach. Ridley Scott doesn't rush things; he lets the tension build up like a pressure cooker about to blow. The eerie sound design, the dimly lit corridors of the spaceship, and the feeling of being stranded in the middle of nowhere – it all adds up to one heck of a ride.

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The Xenomorph itself, designed by H.R. Giger, emerges as a terrifying antagonist, its biomechanical form and relentless pursuit of the crew cementing its status as an iconic cinematic monster.

Yet, Alien isn't merely about scares; it boasts a cast of characters that feel authentic and relatable, led by Sigourney Weaver's Ripley. The film's world-building is equally impressive, presenting a dystopian vision of space exploration where corporate interests clash with human survival.

TSHC Score: 7.5/10

Alien remains a timeless classic that continues to enthrall viewers with its blend of sci-fi spectacle and heart-pounding horror, even decades after its release.