Alien Countdown Day 4(actually 14 or whatever): Alien

****Authors Note: No excuses, I just took a long break from writing these. I am sorry for the wait

This post is going to be short and sweet. Aside from the reveal that there are sequels to this movie, I'd like to limit spoilers.

I'm doing this because I think you should watch this movie.

It is one of the best sci-fi horror films ever made. The design of the titular character was inspired by the work of H.R Giger. Specifically his piece Necronom IV.

Throughout the series, there have been continuous nods to Giger's work. Obviously, the work is not for the faint of heart. It's not so much scary as it is unsettling and disturbing as hell.

Not to ruin any of the movie magic but when bringing the Xenomorph to life, they used condoms to make the muscle fibers around the mouth...ingenuity.

As referenced in my Alien Resurrection piece, Alien gives the viewer a slow burn where not much takes place for the first hour. However, the pay off of suspense and visuals is well worth the wait.

Scott built this whole new world where deep space exploration is possible. The depth he reached in is world building is still exhilarating to imagine, in this day and age.

I've heard the slow burn described as "boring"...by dumb young people born in the 90s...but if you take the time to appreciate the unimaginable place that Scott took society in the movie, it truly is a revelation.

A first time watch of the chestburster scene is gruesome and enthralling especially if you are unfamiliar with the story. The fact that they were able to make it believable is a true testament to the work the cast and crew put into the film.

The film makes great use of jump scares, and that coupled with the suspense of where-the-Alien-is-or-isn't makes the back end of the film so incredible.  It is well worth the wait and is the perfect pay off of the slow burn.

Needless to say 5 out of 5 face-hugger eggs. Go watch this movie right now.