Aliens (1986)

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05/21/24 • 131 min

In this Second Birthday Celebration of the Born to Watch Podcast, we're diving into the abyss of the iconic 1986 science fiction masterpiece, "ALIENS", directed by James Cameron. This sequel to Ridley Scott's 1979 film "ALIEN" elevated the franchise to new heights and redefined the parameters of the sci-fi and horror genres. As we celebrate this significant milestone of our show, it's only fitting that we delve into a film that itself marked a monumental achievement in cinematic history.

A Sequel That Surpasses Expectations

ALIENS stands as a rare example of a sequel that not only meets but surpasses the original in many aspects. Taking the helm from Ridley Scott, James Cameron pivoted from the haunting, slow-burn tension of ALIEN to craft a high-octane, action-packed narrative while still retaining the essence of cosmic horror that made the original so captivating. Set 57 years after the events of ALIEN, the story follows Ellen Ripley (Sigourney Weaver) as she returns to the planet LV-426, now with a crew of marines, to confront the nightmares of her past.

Ripley – A Paradigm of Strength

Sigourney Weaver's portrayal of Ellen Ripley transformed her into an emblem of resilience and courage. In ALIENS, Ripley evolves from a survivor of cosmic horror to a protective mother figure, showcasing a depth of character rarely seen in the sci-fi genre at the time. Weaver's performance earned her an Academy Award nomination for Best Actress, a rarity for roles in science fiction and action genres, underscoring the film's unique impact on the industry.

Technical Brilliance and Atmospheric Tension

James Cameron's vision brought a new level of technical brilliance to ALIENS. The practical effects, creature designs, and set pieces were groundbreaking, immersing viewers in a palpably tense atmosphere that few films have replicated. The design of the xenomorphs, coupled with the claustrophobic environs of LV-426, created a relentless sense of dread. The film's sound design, too, played a crucial role in building this suspense, with every hiss and screech amplifying the terror.

The action sequences in ALIENS are nothing short of legendary. Cameron's ability to choreograph these scenes, blending practical effects with pioneering techniques, set a new standard for the genre. The final showdown between Ripley and the Alien Queen remains one of the most iconic moments in film history, a testament to the film's innovative approach to action and storytelling.

A Rich Tapestry of Themes

Beyond its surface as a thrilling sci-fi action film, ALIENS explores rich motherhood, trauma, and survival themes. Ripley's relationship with Newt, the sole survivor of the LV-426 colony, adds emotional depth to the narrative, offering a poignant exploration of maternal instincts and the lengths to which one will go to protect a child. This thematic depth distinguishes ALIENS from its contemporaries, making it a film that resonates on multiple levels.

Legacy and Influence

The legacy of ALIENS is immeasurable, influencing countless films and filmmakers in the years since its release. Its blend of science fiction, action, and horror set a template that many have attempted to replicate, but few have matched. The film's impact extends beyond cinema, influencing video games, literature, and popular culture, cementing its place as a cornerstone of the sci-fi genre.

As we celebrate the 100th episode of the Born to Watch Podcast, it's clear why ALIENS was the unanimous choice for this milestone. James Cameron's masterpiece is not just a film but a cultural phenomenon that has stood the test of time. Its blend of groundbreaking technical achievements, deep thematic exploration, and unforgettable performances, especially by Sigourney Weaver, makes ALIENS a landmark in cinematic history.

ALIENS is more than a sequel; it's a testament to the power of vision, creativity, and storytelling. As we reflect on the legacy of this iconic film, we're reminded of the boundless potential of cinema to thrill, terrify, and inspire. Here's to 100 episodes of the Born to Watch Podcast and ALIENS, a film that continues to captivate and inspire audiences worldwide.

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A Sequel That Surpasses Expectations

Ripley – A Paradigm of Strength

Technical Brilliance and Atmospheric Tension

A Rich Tapestry of Themes

Legacy and Influence

Check out the new website and leave us a message or a voicemail.

https://www.borntowatch.com.au/

Please follow the Podcast and join our community at

https://linktr.ee/borntowatchpodcast

If you are looking to start a podcast and want a host or get guests to pipe in remotely, look no further than Riverside.fm

Click the link below.

https://riverside.fm/?utm_campaign=campaign_1&utm_medium=affiliate&utm_source=rewardful&via=matth...

Previous Episode

Special Edition - Rebel Moon Part 2 - The Scar Giver

Rebel Moon Part 2: The Scar Giver attempts to elevate its predecessor’s groundwork into a sprawling space saga in this follow-up to the ambitious yet divisive first instalment. Helmed once again by a director known for his love of grand visual feasts, the movie aims to stitch new threads into the expansive tapestry of its galaxy. However, as the Born to Watch team discovered, even the most visually stunning feasts can leave one feeling unexpectedly underwhelmed.

Whitey and Damo are back in the hot seat, sparing no one the task of diving deep into this cinematic cosmos. Let’s break down what The Scar Giver offers, perhaps reading between the lines where necessary.

Cinematography and Visuals

Visually, the movie is undeniably a spectacle. The cinematography captures sweeping landscapes of alien worlds with the kind of jaw-dropping detail that nearly commands its own dialogue. Every frame is meticulously crafted, with vibrant colours and extravagant effects that are the hallmark of big-budget sci-fi. There’s an undeniable prowess in how the film crafts its battle scenes, filled with fleets of ships and flashing lasers that could easily make any highlight reel.
But as the saying goes, "Not all that glitters is gold." The reliance on visual effects occasionally overwhelms the narrative, overshadowing moments that might have benefited from subtlety and a more grounded approach. For a saga that wants to carve its mark as a new epic, the film often feels like it’s floating through its own spectacle, untethered by the gravity of its storytelling.

Storytelling and Pace

The storyline of The Scar Giver picks up with a promise of deeper intrigue and expanded lore. However, the plot often stumbles under the weight of its own ambitions. The pacing feels uneven, with pivotal scenes rushing by, while less critical moments drag on, testing the patience of even the most devoted viewers. The script attempts to weave multiple storylines into a coherent whole but sometimes feels like a patchwork that’s fraying at the edges.
Characters are introduced with fanfare and then relegated to the backgrounds of their own stories, leaving us to wonder if the editing room left too much character development on the cutting floor. This ambitious sequel could have used its run time to tighten its narrative focus rather than expanding it into oblivion.

Character Development

Speaking of characters, the development—or lack thereof—stands out starkly. Our heroes and villains are back with more screen time, but their evolution feels stunted. Emotional arcs that should resonate end up feeling contrived, as if the script is checking off boxes rather than exploring the depths of these interstellar travellers. It’s a space opera that sometimes forgets the opera, focusing heavily on the spectacle and neglecting the powerful, character-driven moments that could give the narrative its much-needed heart.

Cultural and Historical Significance

The Scar Giver positions itself as a culturally significant piece, aiming to reflect and challenge current societal themes. The attempt is clear, but the execution is muddled, often feeling like a superficial nod rather than a thoughtful exploration. The film flirts with themes of rebellion, freedom, and the cost of war, yet these heavy concepts seem to float in the vacuum of space, never fully landing.

Relevance to Pop Culture

As for its place in pop culture, this sequel will undoubtedly be a topic of discussion, not just for its cinematic qualities but for the conversations it attempts to spark. There’s a sense that this film wants to be more than just entertainment; it wants to be a moment. However, whether it achieves this status or becomes a footnote in the annals of sci-fi, it remains to be seen.

Final Thoughts

Rebel Moon Part 2: The Scar Giver strives for greatness but often finds itself lost among the stars. For fans of the genre, it offers a visual dessert that’s hard to resist. However, for those looking for a meal with substance, the film might leave you hungry for more.

Whitey and Damo took one for the team again, sitting through this cosmic journey so that they could bring their unique insights to the table—or in this case, the podcast. While the film’s ambitions are as high as its budget, the execution may not be everyone’s cup of tea, or in this case, everyone’s type of stardust.

In our upcoming podcast episode, we'll peel back the layers of The Scar Giver, perhaps uncovering some hidden gems that could redeem its sprawling narrative. Join us as we explore whether this galactic endeavour soars to the new heights it aims for or if it's destined to be eclipsed by its own grand shadow. Stay tuned; as always, we’re ...

Next Episode

Rocky III

Welcome back, Born to Watch listeners! In this episode, we dive into the electrifying world of "Rocky III," the third instalment in the legendary Rocky series. Directed by and starring Sylvester Stallone, this 1982 classic reinvigorates the saga of the Italian Stallion with new challenges, unforgettable characters, and the iconic anthem "Eye of the Tiger."

Overview and Plot Summary

"Rocky III" begins with Rocky Balboa (Sylvester Stallone) at the pinnacle of his career. He’s the reigning heavyweight champion, enjoying a lavish lifestyle with his wife Adrian (Talia Shire) and son. The opening montage, set to Survivor’s “Eye of the Tiger,” captures Rocky’s string of successful title defences and newfound celebrity status. However, this success brings complacency, something that his trainer, Mickey Goldmill (Burgess Meredith), warns him about.

Enter Clubber Lang (Mr. T), a ferocious and hungry challenger who calls out Rocky's seemingly softening resolve. Clubber’s taunts and raw power culminate in a dramatic face-off, where he brutally dethrones Rocky, not only taking his title but also delivering a crushing blow to his spirit.

Rocky’s journey to redemption is both physical and emotional. With the help of his former rival, Apollo Creed (Carl Weathers), Rocky must reclaim the "eye of the tiger"—the primal, relentless drive that first made him a champion. Through gruelling training and self-discovery, Rocky prepares for a rematch that’s as much about regaining his pride as it is about reclaiming the title.

Cinematography and Direction

Stallone's direction in "Rocky III" is marked by a notable shift in style from the previous films. The grit and grime of Philadelphia give way to a more polished, almost glossy depiction of Rocky’s life at the top. This contrast effectively underscores Rocky’s initial loss of hunger and drive. The training montages, a staple of the Rocky series, are particularly memorable here, with the beach running scene between Rocky and Apollo standing out as a moment of pure cinematic energy and emotional resonance.

The fight scenes are shot viscerally, pulling the audience into the ring. The cinematography by Bill Butler captures the brutal reality of boxing, with sweat and blood flying in slow motion, emphasizing the physical toll of each punch. The camera work during the final fight keeps viewers on the edge of their seats, perfectly complementing the film's dramatic pacing.

Character Development and Performances

Sylvester Stallone delivers a multifaceted performance as Rocky. He adeptly portrays Rocky’s transformation from a complacent champion to a humbled underdog seeking redemption. Stallone's ability to convey vulnerability and determination makes Rocky’s journey deeply relatable and inspiring.

Mr. T's portrayal of Clubber Lang is nothing short of iconic. His raw, unbridled aggression starkly contrasts Rocky’s initially softened demeanour. Mr T imbues Clubber with an intensity that makes him one of the most memorable antagonists in the series. His famous line, “I pity the fool,” has become part of the pop culture lexicon.

Carl Weathers reprises his role as Apollo Creed, adding a new layer to his character. The transition from Rocky’s rival to his mentor is handled with nuance, showcasing Apollo’s respect for Rocky and his own desire to reclaim some glory by proxy. Their developing friendship adds depth to the narrative and provides some of the film’s most heartfelt moments.

Burgess Meredith’s Mickey continues to be the grounding force in Rocky’s life. His death is a poignant turning point in the film, symbolizing the end of an era and pushing Rocky to rediscover his fighting spirit. Talia Shire’s Adrian also plays a crucial role; her unwavering support and powerful pep talk give Rocky the emotional strength he needs.

Historical and Cultural Significance

"Rocky III" holds a significant place in cinema history. Released during the early 1980s, the film reflects the era’s cultural landscape, where themes of perseverance, self-reliance, and redemption resonated strongly with audiences. The film’s success helped cement Sylvester Stallone as a major Hollywood player and further established the Rocky franchise as a cultural touchstone.

The soundtrack, particularly "Eye of the Tiger" by Survivor, became an anthem for motivation and resilience. Its association with Rocky’s training montages has made it synonymous with overcoming challenges and pushing one’s limits. The song’s enduring popularity is a testament to the film’s impact on pop culture.
Pop Culture Impact

"Rocky III" is more than just a sports drama; it’s a cultural phenomenon. Mr. T’s portrayal of Clubber Lang introduced the world to a new kind of larger-than-life character, influencing portrayals of antagonists in sports films and beyond. The fi...