Aliens 1986: Special Edition Blu-ray Review

by Jhon Lennon 44 views

Hey guys! Today, we're diving deep into a cinematic masterpiece that has stood the test of time: Aliens (1986) Special Edition on Blu-ray. For those who don't know, Aliens isn't just a movie; it's a cultural phenomenon that redefined action and science fiction. Directed by James Cameron, this sequel to Ridley Scott's Alien takes a drastically different approach, trading suspenseful horror for intense, pulse-pounding action. Now, let's get into what makes this Blu-ray so special and why it deserves a spot in your collection.

What Makes Aliens a Classic?

Before we dissect the Blu-ray, let's reminisce about why Aliens remains a cinematic touchstone. Released in 1986, seven years after its predecessor, Aliens follows Ellen Ripley, portrayed by the indomitable Sigourney Weaver, as she returns to LV-426 with a team of Colonial Marines to investigate why the colony has gone silent. What they find is a horde of Xenomorphs, turning a rescue mission into a desperate fight for survival.

Aliens excels for several reasons:

  1. Strong Characters: Ripley's evolution from survivor to warrior is one of cinema's most compelling character arcs. The supporting cast, including Hicks, Vasquez, and Bishop, are equally memorable, each bringing a unique dynamic to the ensemble.
  2. Intense Action: James Cameron masterfully crafts action sequences that are both thrilling and terrifying. The sense of claustrophobia and impending doom is palpable, keeping you on the edge of your seat.
  3. Visual Effects: Even by today's standards, the practical effects in Aliens are outstanding. The Xenomorphs are genuinely frightening, and the set designs create a believable and immersive world.
  4. Themes: Beyond the action, Aliens explores themes of motherhood, corporate greed, and the resilience of the human spirit.

The Blu-ray Special Edition: A Worthy Upgrade?

Now, onto the Blu-ray itself. The Aliens Special Edition Blu-ray offers a significant upgrade over previous DVD releases, providing enhanced video and audio quality that truly does justice to Cameron's vision. Let's break down the key aspects:

Video Quality

The Blu-ray boasts a 1080p transfer that showcases the film's intricate details. The picture is sharp, clear, and vibrant, bringing out the textures in the sets, costumes, and, of course, the Xenomorphs themselves. Colors are rich and well-balanced, enhancing the overall viewing experience. Compared to the DVD version, the Blu-ray eliminates much of the grain and artifacts, resulting in a cleaner, more modern look. However, it’s important to note that some scenes still retain a level of grain, which is inherent to the film's original photography and adds to its gritty, realistic feel. This isn't a flaw but rather a preservation of the film's original aesthetic.

Audio Quality

The audio is presented in a DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 surround sound, which is a massive improvement over the DVD's Dolby Digital track. The soundstage is wide and immersive, with clear dialogue, impactful sound effects, and a powerful score by James Horner. During action sequences, the surround sound truly shines, placing you right in the middle of the chaos. The roar of the Xenomorphs, the rat-a-tat of pulse rifles, and the explosions all sound incredibly realistic and add to the film's intensity. The subwoofer gets a good workout too, adding depth and weight to the action. Whether you're watching in a home theater or with a decent set of headphones, the audio quality on this Blu-ray will not disappoint.

Special Features

One of the main draws of the Aliens Special Edition Blu-ray is the wealth of special features included. These extras provide a fascinating behind-the-scenes look at the making of the film and offer insights from the cast and crew. Here are some of the highlights:

  • Audio Commentary: There are multiple audio commentaries available, including one with director James Cameron and the cast and crew. These commentaries are packed with information about the film's production, special effects, and the creative decisions that were made.
  • Deleted Scenes: The Blu-ray includes a collection of deleted and extended scenes, some of which were originally included in the Special Edition theatrical release. These scenes add depth to the characters and expand on certain plot points, offering a more complete viewing experience.
  • Documentaries: Several documentaries delve into various aspects of the film's production, including the creature design, visual effects, and the challenges of bringing Cameron's vision to life. These documentaries feature interviews with the key people involved and provide a comprehensive look at the making of Aliens.
  • Behind-the-Scenes Footage: This includes raw footage from the set, offering a glimpse into the day-to-day realities of filming a large-scale action movie. It's fascinating to see how the practical effects were achieved and how the actors prepared for their roles.
  • Image Galleries: The Blu-ray also includes extensive image galleries featuring production stills, concept art, and promotional materials. These galleries are a treasure trove for fans of the film.

The Theatrical Version vs. The Special Edition

The Aliens Special Edition Blu-ray includes both the theatrical version and the Special Edition, allowing you to choose your preferred cut of the film. The Special Edition adds approximately 17 minutes of additional footage, including extended scenes with the colony on LV-426 before the Xenomorph attack and more character development for Ripley and the Marines. While some purists prefer the tighter pacing of the theatrical version, the Special Edition offers a more complete and nuanced viewing experience. The added scenes provide valuable context and enhance the emotional impact of the story.

Why You Should Buy This Blu-ray

So, is the Aliens Special Edition Blu-ray worth buying? Absolutely! Whether you're a longtime fan of the film or a newcomer to the Alien franchise, this Blu-ray offers the best possible way to experience Aliens at home. The enhanced video and audio quality, combined with the wealth of special features, make this a must-have for any serious collector. It's a testament to the enduring appeal of James Cameron's masterpiece and a celebration of one of the greatest action movies ever made.

Pros:

  • Stunning Visuals: The 1080p transfer brings out the intricate details of the film, making it look better than ever.
  • Immersive Audio: The DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 surround sound puts you right in the middle of the action.
  • Extensive Special Features: The Blu-ray is packed with behind-the-scenes content, including audio commentaries, deleted scenes, and documentaries.
  • Both Versions Included: You get both the theatrical version and the Special Edition, allowing you to choose your preferred cut of the film.

Cons:

  • Some Grain: While the picture quality is excellent overall, some scenes still retain a level of grain, which may bother some viewers. However, this is inherent to the film's original photography and adds to its gritty, realistic feel.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, the Aliens Special Edition Blu-ray is a fantastic package that offers something for everyone. The enhanced video and audio quality, combined with the wealth of special features, make this a must-have for any fan of the film. Whether you're reliving the thrills of Aliens for the hundredth time or discovering it for the first time, this Blu-ray is the definitive way to experience this cinematic masterpiece. So, grab your copy today and get ready to join Ripley and the Colonial Marines in their battle against the Xenomorphs. You won't be disappointed!