Big Arn takes on a formidable opponent in this superior sci-fi/action pip

Rating: 9/10 (29 March 2016)

An elite commando squad led by the rugged Dutch (an excellent and engaging performance by Arnold Schwarzenegger) find themselves being hunted by a ruthless and relentless predatory alien (towering Kevin Peter Hill) in a Central American jungle.
Director John McTiernan relates the gripping story at a snappy pace, stages the action set pieces with rip-roaring gusto, builds plenty of tension, delivers a handy helping of gore, and makes the most out of the steamy tropical setting. The clever script by Jim and John Thomas provides a hyper-masculine aesthetic that's positively dripping with testosterone along with several choice one-liners ("Stick around") and a welcome and refreshing opportunity to see a bunch of tough stomp-ass alpha male types placed in a disadvantageous situation in which they are vulnerable and getting bumped off instead of invincible and happily butchering folks. The members of Dutch's mighty team are a likable and well-drawn bunch, with especially stand-out work from Carl Weathers as the duplicitous Dillon, Bill Duke as the unhinged Mac, Jesse Ventura as rough'n'tumble redneck Blain, and Sonny Landham as expert tracker Billy. Kudos are also in order for Donald McAlpine's sharp cinematography, Alan Silvestri's fist-pumping score, and Stan Winston's superbly grotesque creature make-up. Essential viewing.