Aliens

Aliens has built a real following in Australia on Disney Plus, and in the UK on Disney Plus among viewers who want their sci-fi to think as hard as it looks. The runtime earns every minute, with nothing here that feels like padding. An 8/10 rating says what the writing already makes obvious: this one works. Sigourney Weaver's performance is the anchor the more ambitious scenes need. Put it on tonight on Disney Plus and see for yourself.

Whatever else is competing for your attention this week, Aliens is worth clearing space for. Aliens uses its genre premise as cover for asking bigger questions. Ripley, the sole survivor of the Nostromo's deadly encounter with the monstrous Alien, returns to Earth after drifting through space in hypersleep for 57 years. Although her story is initially met with skepticism, she agrees to accompany a team of Colonial Marines back to LV-426. Sigourney Weaver and Carrie Henn lead a cast that never lets the concept overwhelm the characters. It was released in 1986. Aliens resists the temptation to explain everything, trusting the audience to sit with ambiguity. The hit rate here is high enough that skipping ahead never feels like an option.

For late-night viewing or a proper weekend binge, Aliens fits the bill. It does not lean on comparisons to make its case. Best experienced as a single, sustained watch from start to finish. Sigourney Weaver's performance is the anchor the more ambitious moments need. The world-building pays off in ways you will not anticipate on a first watch.