Something Out There.

Rating: 9/10 (19 June 2015)

Alien (1979): Dir: Ridley Scott / Cast: Sigourney Weaver, Tom Skerritt, Ian Holm, John Hurt, Veronica Cartwright: Terrifying science fiction thriller about a threat that isn't fully comprehended. Seven astronauts undergo a mission in space and come across pods. John Hurt is found unconscious with a strange creature entwined on his face. Examination indicates that its blood is a burning acid. Hurt regains consciousness leading to the famous scene where a slender creature bursts out through his chest. It is a battle for survival as it grows rapidly and outwits the crew who do everything at their disposal to terminate the creature. Truly shocking and director Ridley Scott plays on its claustrophobic feel. The cast are a small group of character actors who succeed in giving realistic emotion to the shock effect. They all awaken from hyper sleep unaware that only one will return. Sigourney Weaver plays off guts and brains as the heroine Ripley whose fight for survival is strong stuff. Ian Holm is compelling as Ash who carries a secret of his own. Tom Skerritt as the captain is at a loss but ultimately makes a brave attempt to flame out the creature. Then there is Hurt in the film's gruesome classic scene that still remains tense. This is a great cast of character actors whose roles benefit from their appeal. Triumphant production with questions regarding the ominous unknown. Score: 9 / 10