Review of Alien Resurrection (1997) by Kai82 — 11 Nov 2020

While this movie has its problems it has also new creative ideas, an enjoyable cast and some memorable moments (both good and bad once). In comparison to Alien 3 it is defiantly an improvement. Of cause it is not anywhere near Alien 1 and Alien 2.

The script was written by Joss Wheadon (Yes that one) which explain some new ideas. However he said they butchered his script. For clarification: He said they used everything in a way he would never do instead of directly changing stuff.

The story starts 200 years after the conclusion of Alien 3. Ellen Ripley of cause played by Sigourney Weaver is cloned on a space ship because they want the Alien-Queen genes from her (Don't know how this works.

Maybe mixed or contaminated?). They want to control the Aliens or use them as weapons (Bad idea but believable. Mindset would be: Those morons from 200 years ago were too stupid and primitive. We are better, smarter, far more capable and advanced).

Meanwhile a group of mercenary is on the space ship making business and have their own plans. I stop here. For itself the story is entertaining and I like the ideas or concepts here. I will not deny that there are also some bad ideas too and a few awkward moments.

There is however a good portion of dark humor present. The cast is enjoyable. Sigourney Weaver delivers an excellent performance and makes most of the script and new ideas. Then there are the mercenaries / space pirates: Winona Ryder as Annalee Call has an interesting role and character.

Good performance here. Ron Perlman always delivers and is typecast here. Dominique Pinon plays a paraplegic mechanic and has much character and personality. I remember Michael Wincott as their shady captain.

There were others but I have forgotten their roles (Shame one me as there was at least another guy with remarkable shooting skills that I cant allocate anymore). Then there are the antagonists outside the Aliens.

James E. Freeman is an excellent self-righteous and arrogant scientist. While he is not evil in a mad scientist way he would become one slowly but surely if left alone for more time. Then there is Dan Hedaya as General Perez who has a shorter role but a remarkable exit.

The special effects were really good for its time and the Aliens look terrifying especially one at the end is truly out of nightmares. Remark: This is divisive as there are some fans that disagree and will say it looks terrible.

The sets are fine and so is the soundtrack. Overall this movie is enjoyable and not as bad as many will claim. It has it weaknesses but also strengths. After Alien 3 it is a great improvement especially after the next ones are possibly franchise destroyers.

I think it falls in the 4-8/10 realm and I enjoyed it enough to give it this rating.