JACOB ARNER

STAFF WRITER

    Originally released in the summer of 1979, “Alien” is a classic film of the sci-fi and horror genre and is considered one of the most famous films of all time. Whether it’s the iconic xenomorph creature introduced in the film, or the famous chestburster scene, “Alien” was a groundbreaking film on the same level as the original “Star Wars” or “Jaws.” This year is the film’s 40th anniversary, and it is time to look back at the film in all its glory, and to pay respect to one of the most iconic films of all time. 

  Directed by Ridley Scott, “Alien” had an extremely lengthy production process, with a script being written several years before being green-lit. Unfortunately, in the late 60’s and early 70’s, sci-fi and space movies did relatively poor in theaters and didn’t make enough money for studios to make profits for studios. Since it was such a big risk for them, studio after studio rejected “Alien” from being made into a feature-length motion picture. However, that all changed in 1978. 20th Century Fox begin green-lighting sci-fi and space films with newfound craze.

   Why? A little film called “Star Wars” premiered under the studio and changed the whole stigma against sci-fi and space films being made in Hollywood.  

   “Alien” was an instant global and commercial success, putting star actress Sigourney Weaver on the map and single handedly creating the sci-fi/horror subgenre. Its realistic approach to normal people living in the future is still copied today in sci-fi films.

   However, the film proved to be much more than a one hit wonder. The series has become one of the longest lasting of all time, spawning three sequels, two prequels with a third in production, two crossovers with the extremely popular Predator franchise, as well as multiple novels, comics, and video games. The franchise is so popular it even has its own day for fans to celebrate it, April 26th, or 4/26 matching the numbers of the foreign planetoid from the first film. Honor Ridley Scott and his timeless classic this year by viewing or reviewing “Alien” on its 40th anniversary, as the film truly deserves it. Either way, whether you’re an “Alien” fan or not, this sci-fi fantasy flick is something you don’t want to pass an opportunity on. Besides, the sight of a small creature tearing through guts is very enticing.