Alien (1979) – An Uncanny Political Fable

In this episode of Horror Joy, we’re venturing into the cold, dark depths of space to explore Ridley Scott’s iconic sci-fi horror masterpiece, Alien.

We’ll delve into the film’s terrifying themes, including:

  • The Alien as the Ultimate Other: How the alien creature embodies our fears of the unknown and the uncanny.
  • Body Horror and the Violation of the Human Form: The film’s disturbing exploration of birth, death, and the body.
  • Corporate Greed and Existential Threat: The role of capitalism and technology in creating the conditions for the alien’s emergence.
  • The Heroine’s Journey: Ripley’s evolution from a resourceful crew member to a hardened warrior.

So, buckle up and prepare for a terrifying journey. Just remember, in space, no one can hear you scream.

Elaine Graham Post/Human

Raymond Williams

Frederick Jameson

Julia Kristeva, Abjection

Horror in Space: Critical Essays on a Film Subgenre by edited by Michele Brittany

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