Alien
A masterclass in suspense and dread.
From the beginning, you are treated with long and patient takes of the Nostromo. Getting you acquainted with the ship before we meet the characters. It's grimey and analog mechanisms making the ship a character of its own.
Then we are greeted to the crew. All of which feel relatable and deeply human. We spend majority of the first half getting to know them and the way they interact with one another. More horror films should utilise this as it gives us more of an incentive to feel terror when they're in danger.
The cinematography is slow and deliberate. Using long takes and static shots to help build its atmosphere and slowly increase tension. It's use of low level lighting perfectly captures the terror of the dark and the creature waiting within.
Every character stands out and is memorable. Ellen Ripley (breakout performance by Sigourney Weaver) is not given much character or agency at first; which further helps in the revelation that she is our protagonist in the second half.
She is met with friction from Ash, reluctance and annoyance from Parker and Brett whilst trying to be a good second in command to Dallas. The way the characters bounce off each other and have distinct personalities helped ground them. Loved everyone's performance; especially Ian Holm.
The production and sound design is gorgeous. The sounds of the Nostromo are unique and differ from other sci-fi flicks. I can't get enough of it.
The xenomorph itself, is terror incarnate. A 'perfect organism' that is both pervasive and horrifying. Watching from the shadows and waiting for its opportune moment to strike. The practical effects are stellar and solidfy this as one of the greatest creatures in cinematic history.
As the xenomorph picks off the crew, the environment becomes the antagonist. You look carefully; hoping you don't come face to face with it. Is that the piping of the motherboard or is the creature waiting in plain sight?
An incredible feat in cinematic horror and one that never ceases to crawl under my skin.
10/10