Alien vs. Predator
Here Is What You Need To Know:
Okay, okay, okay. Stop everything. How is it that Alien vs. Predator was not one of the biggest films in recent years? How could this be possible? Both franchises have huge followings, which especially in the case of Alien, have been a bit abused. The Alien vs. Predator comic has a rather robust following and the film itself isn't a total disappointment. Have we truly become that star driven? Alien vs. Predator finally gave fans of both franchises the film they wanted and it wasn't a massive box-office hit. Was it the missing star power? Puzzling stuff, but the film itself is fun and leaves you wanting more.
Alright, no real mystery with part of the story here, the Aliens meet the Predators and its not love at first sight, although that would have been an interesting film as well. Deep in Antarctica a ancient site is uncovered by a billionaires research team and they, like most stupid humans, screw up and do something stupid. This time the stupidity in question concerns releasing Aliens. The Predators have a spacecraft that just happens to be in the hood and they pick up the signal coming from Antarctica. Its the good old “we picked up a signal” device used once again, but I will overlook it. Yes, the Predators come down to earth, and yes much blood and guts ensues with the stupid humans caught in the middle. Oh sure people its silly, but its fun, well-paced and the acting performances by the humans are solid enough. Alien vs. Predator won't change your life, but, shocker of shockers, its better than I thought it would be.
What Was Cool:
-Director Paul W.S. Anderson creates a believable world, as much as that is possible, for this Alien vs. Predator brawl to take place in. Anderson is an overlooked talent having directed such films as Event Horizon, Soldier and Resident Evil. Say what you will of these scripts, all three of those films have an interesting look, with quality sets and cinematography. Anderson is more capable and more talented than many directors who are being handed bigger budgets.
-The visual effects and props in the film are quite good.
-There is decent character chemistry, especially considering that many of them don't live too long. If that's a spoiler, you're new.
What Was Stupid:
-Why was this film not a bigger hit? One reason is the lack of big name stars. Two, is that the trailer clearly showed that this would not be a true “war” between the Aliens and the Predators, which is what the fans really, truly, in their tiny little hearts of hearts, wanted.
The Film's Real Genius or Geniuses:
Again, Anderson is overlooked as a director, but will likely get the call for the mega-budget, “every bootlicker in the city gets a paycheck” films soon.
Overlooked Performance/Accomplishment:
Overlooked performance? Anderson one last time.
Story B
Use of Science B
Acting B
Portrayal of Women A (Alien vs. Predator has a very strong female lead, Alexa Woods played by Sanaa Lathan.)
Visuals-VFX and Special Effects A
Visuals-Set Design/Props A
Wardrobe/Costumes A
Style/Sex Appeal A
Enjoyability Grade B+
Home Theater/HD Factor A
Gut Check (Level of Studio Executive Guts) D (Oh my how brave Mr. Studio Executive gave a green light to a movie that had two franchises in the name. My hero.)
Overall Innovation C
Overall Grade B
A Little Fact About Cherie:
Many frequent readers may think I shoot my “mouth” off, but trust me, I restrain myself to a great degree as I want to keep my job.
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