terrific sci-fi

Rating: Null/10 (28 February 2000)

Aliens is one of the best science fiction movies of the 1980s. First rate, fast moving direction by James Cameron moves the action along smoothly and relentlessly. Performances are aces, with special kudos going to Sigourney Weaver and Michael Biehn. Weaver is dynamic as a woman who rationally understands what she's getting into but is brave enough to face her fears. As she must deal with aliens, sleazy (and dangerous) comapny man Burke, nurturing Newt and leading the defense against the Aliens, Weaver shows us a resourceful and brave woman. Biehn is outstanding as the soft spoken Corporal Hicks, who proves to be the one person Ripley can turn to to lean on. Biehn gives Hicks intelligence, authority, cool and bravery to create a memorable character. We really feel that he grows to care deeply for Ripley and Newt. Watch the scene where he cannons through bulletproof glass to save them. Watch the scenes where he and Ripley quietly talk and realize how alike they are. Great performances, great direction.