Alien (1979)

(Third viewing, On DVD, May 2005) What is left to say about this film? It’s a classic, well-designated as such. Fantastic atmosphere, impeccable technique, excellent premise, savvy execution. As a child of the MTV generation, I still think it’s a touch too slow, but given how older critics tend to beat me up when I say such things, I may just qualify that with a “maybe”. The “Alien Quadrilogy” box-set edition offers a truckload of supplementary material, including an all-inclusive set of documentaries that will tell you all about the film, and a rather good audio commentary featuring most of the relevant players. An essential SF/Horror film, and the basis of a great series.