Aliens: Theatrical Cut vs Special Edition

Alien Theory24 minutes read

"Aliens" is a classic 1980s science fiction film that has had a significant impact on the genre. A documentary called "In Search of Tomorrow" is being made to celebrate 80s sci-fi, featuring interviews with key figures and interactive watch parties for fans.

Insights

  • The special edition of "Aliens" offers crucial additional scenes that deepen character relationships and provide essential background information, enhancing the overall storytelling experience.
  • The upcoming documentary "In Search of Tomorrow" aims to celebrate 1980s science fiction classics by featuring interviews with key figures from the genre, offering supporters opportunities to be part of the project and engage in interactive experiences like watch parties.

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Summary

00:00

"In Search of Tomorrow" celebrates 80s sci-fi.

  • "Aliens" is considered one of the best science fiction films from the 1980s, with a significant impact on the genre.
  • A documentary called "In Search of Tomorrow: The Definitive 80's sci-fi" is being made, featuring interviews with key figures from 1980s science fiction films.
  • The documentary is crowd-funded, with appearances from Vasquez, Jenette Goldstein, Alan Dean Foster, Bill Duke, and Shane Black.
  • The goal of the documentary is to celebrate the genre and its classics, with opportunities for supporters to have their names in the credits.
  • The documentary aims to be interactive, with watch parties on Discord for covered films, including an Aliens watch party for Alien Day.
  • The director's cut of "Aliens" is shorter than the original theatrical version, with changes made by Ridley Scott for pacing reasons.
  • The special edition of "Aliens" is considered the intended version by writer-director James Cameron, with cuts made in the theatrical version for runtime reasons.
  • The special edition of "Aliens" includes a crucial scene where Ripley learns about her daughter's fate, adding depth to her character and relationship with Newt.
  • The special edition also features a sequence on Hadley's Hope, providing background on the colony's situation before the xenomorph outbreak.
  • The inclusion of certain scenes in the special edition impacts the story's suspense and character development, with differing opinions on the necessity of these additions.

11:48

"Aliens: Special Edition Enhances Viewing Experience"

  • Ripley finds Newt's citizenship award in her hideout, showcasing the contrast between her innocent past and current state.
  • The sequence inside the Sulaco introduces the marines and their environment, setting the stage for the story.
  • Private Hudson delivers an inspirational speech about the marines' capabilities during the drop, adding depth to his character.
  • Ripley hesitates before entering the colony, displaying vulnerability and building the bond with Hicks.
  • The use of sentry guns, omitted from the theatrical version, adds tension and crucial plot elements to the latter half of the movie.
  • The discussion about the queen alien in the medbay scene hints at its existence, potentially spoiling the surprise for viewers.
  • Ripley and Hicks share their first names in a humanizing moment before the daring venture into the Alien Hive.
  • The special edition version of the film includes various reinserted scenes that enhance the overall experience.
  • The special edition is considered superior by many, offering a broader and more immersive viewing experience.
  • While the theatrical cut is revered and worth revisiting, the special edition provides a more comprehensive look at the film's world.

24:11

"In Search of Tomorrow" Documentary Support and Tribute

  • To support the upcoming documentary "In Search of Tomorrow," viewers are encouraged to donate and have their names included in the credits by following a provided link. Sharing the video is also appreciated, with a request for favorite scenes from "Aliens: Special Edition" to be shared in the comments.
  • A tribute is paid to Jay Benedict, who played Newt's father in the special edition of "Aliens" and passed away due to complications from covid-19 on April 4th. Viewers are urged to reflect on the art they love during a less eventful Alien Day, honoring those who have contributed to it.
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