Alien as a Landmark Film

• Genre innovations

  • Mixes horror and science fiction-> sets a tense atmosphere
  • Sets the precedent for future sci-fi horror films
• Strong female protagonist ( in Ripley)

  • Broke stereotypes by being a strong and resourceful female lead
  • She paved the way for more complex female roles
• Atmospheric storytelling

  • Production design create a claustrophobic and immersive atmosphere
  • Lighting, sound, and set -> intense and foreboding atmosphere
• Iconic visuals and designs

  • Giger's design of the Alien and the Nostromo -> unique aesthetic
  • Visuals influenced other films, video games, and artworks
• Themes of isolation and fear

  • Isolation, survival and the unknown!!
  • These resonate with the audience's fears with the Cold War and technological advances
  • The dread of being hunted in space and in a confined space where there is no possible escape (and no-one can hear you scream)
• Critical and commercial success

  • Was a critical and box office success
  • Franchise continues to be relevant today