The Daddy of Suspense...

Rating: 10/10 (20 October 2012)

If classic Hitchcock films such as 'Phsycho' are considered the godfather of suspense then this film at least deserves its title as a father of suspense.
For me, 'Alien' sets out in stone how every horror/thriller film should aim to be. OK I didn't have sleepless nights after, but the viewing of the film had my pulse rate through the roof.
Ridley Scott manages right from the start to create an eerie atmosphere of pure dread. Right from the word go, you can tell something doesn't feel right even when they haven't even picked up their....'Visitor'.
The Alien itself is designed to perfection by Giger. Truly an emotionless, remorseless, soulless killing machine. It's what adds a new horrifying dimension to our villain. Knowing the crew members have no way in which to reason or bargain with it; multiples the fright-factor.
The acting of course is top notch; not a single bad performance from anyone. The tensions between crew members feels totally realistic and their reactions towards the ongoing dilemma are too, very believable.
The setting is what really makes the film though. The ship feels modern but at the same time: grimy and frankly, claustrophobic. It really is what fortifies the idea that you are more frightened of what you can't see.
My only complaint is the pacing. The first half of the film is pretty slow. However it is this that very reason the tension builds so well. The problem is when things really start to get going the story goes VERY FAST! After the first gruesome encounter things go downhill for the crew pretty quick. In fact it feels a tad rushed. But then again it does sort of give a sense of panic and adrenaline.
I guarantee you that at some point during your viewing of 'Alien', your heart-rate WILL have increased and when the film reaches its fantastic climax you will be blown away.
Classic Sci-Fi horror! 8/10