I agree...this is a ***** out of *****

Rating: 10/10 (17 January 2005)

"Aliens" was the movie my wife and I rented for our first date. It's "our" movie. But I don't think that this is only the reason I love it so much.
The FX are absolutely stunning. Virtually flawless and basically CGI-free. The attention to detail set a high bar that few other films have matched.
The actors and actresses are excellent in their roles. Weaver is the most prominent, but you gotta love Paxton's portrayal of the smart-aleck Pvt. Hudson, who ultimately goes down in an almost heroic manner, fighting and defiant until the end. Henriksen is also spot-on in what will probably be his defining role as a supporting character.
The script is a masterpiece. Every time I read the "Quotations" in the IMDb entry, I just crack up.
Do yourself a favor and rent or buy the Special Edition and watch it on the biggest screen you can with true 5.1 audio. You absolutely won't regret it.
***** out of *****