As close to perfect as I have seen...

Rating: 10/10 (17 August 2003)

I first saw it about a year after it was released theatrically on VHS. I was in the 2nd grade and it blew me away.
Of course, many films can have a profound effect on kids, but once said kids grow up they realize the movie now sucks. Not so with this one. I notice something new every time I watch it.
This movie is approaching it's 20 year mark and I still think the S.E. are right up there with the cutting edge stuff that's coming out now. I long for a film to come out today that would use half of the puppet work, models, miniatures or actual live actors to simulate the aliens. THEY LOOK REAL BECAUSE THEY ARE REAL! (But not really real). Small things like the upturned collar on Burke's suit make me think that Cameron did not let a single thing go unchecked. (I guess the collar is a subtle attempt at showing men's fashion in the future). It looks totally believable and not too in your face, which I guess is why it took me forever to notice it.
The action speaks for itself. If you haven't seen it it, SEE IT. The characters are truly a rarity from many action/adventure movies because we end up really caring about them. Solid acting from all parts, not to mention Weaver being nominated for a Best Actress Oscar. And as far as I'm concerned, this is THE Cameron film with which to compare all Cameron films. Bottom line... so much more than an action/adventure/sci-fi, which is where you'll find it on the rack.