Director(s): James Cameron

Writer(s): James Cameron

Cast: Sigourney Weaver, Carrie Henn, Michael Biehn, Paul Reiser, Lance Henrikson, Bill Paxton, William Hope and Jenette Goldstein

Synopsis: Following the events of Alien, ‘The Company’ takes in Ripley to discover that she has been in hyper sleep for nearly 57 years.  During that time, a colony has been sent to populate the planet to where Ripley first encounters the Alien.  When all contact is lost with the colony, Ripley is sent back in, with a group of Navy officers to find out what has happened to the colonist.  What they find, ‘The Company’ wants, with or without the crews participation.

My Review: One of the few sequels that is better than the first.  Cameron’s direction and thirst for action is considered by many to be one of the best Sci Fi Action films ever. 

What really works for the film is the relationship between all of the actors participating and especially the relationship of Ripley and Newt.  All the supporting players serve a purpose, which is rare in film.  Sigourney proves that you can be tough, but also play it with heart.  She was nominated for an Oscar for your role as Ripley, yet did not win the deserved statue. 

The film is set as a roller coaster pace from one scene to another and never looks back.  My only real complaint on the film is the ending, which I believe should have been executed differently than doing a simple rehash of the first installment. 

Unlike the first film, the director’s cut is available on DVD, and again unlike the first, the scenes are welcomed and make the film even better.  The films aid in solidifying the relationships among the stars and also add impact to the many action sequences within. 

Overview:  Solid film on almost every level, the only reason why it fails is the problem that I have with the ending.  Otherwise, a truly wonderful film that should be enjoyed for what it is…a first rate second chapter in the life of Lt. Ellen Ripley.