Aliens: A Landmark Film Celebrating Women in Sci-Fi and Action
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Chapter 1: The Feminist Significance of Aliens
The film "Aliens" is recognized as an essential feminist work, highlighting a narrative where neither gender prevails over the other. It presents womanhood without compromising it to accommodate a patriarchal world, even amidst the terror of a menacing alien threat. Both men and women equally contribute to the struggle for survival. — Lara C Cory (Little White Lies, 2016)
"Let's rock!" — Jeanette Vasquez (Aliens, 1986)
One could convincingly argue that "Aliens" stands as the pinnacle of science fiction filmmaking, and similarly, it could be deemed the finest horror movie ever produced. However, what remains indisputable is that it is the ultimate film celebrating women.
Ripley, the iconic protagonist, is well-known for vanquishing the original alien in "Alien," despite the creature having decimated her entire crew, prompting her to self-destruct a massive spaceship. By the time of "Aliens," Ripley had firmly established her reputation as a fierce warrior, a status that could have been drastically different had Ash succeeded in his poorly conceived assassination attempt.
Her competence is evident in her understanding of the ship's quarantine procedures—knowledge that was disregarded by the senior management, who allowed the alien aboard and effectively invited disaster.
Ripley’s dual role as an individual who adheres to essential safety protocols and as a xenomorph hunter sets the stage for the sequel's excitement. Even if she were the sole female presence in "Aliens," the film would still resonate as a tribute to women. However, the narrative is further enriched by two other pivotal female characters: Newt, the lone survivor of a colony ravaged by aliens, and Vasquez, the most aggressive of the colonial marines ready to confront the alien menace.
"I only need to know one thing… where they are…"
Ripley embodies fear, having encountered the aliens before, while Vasquez displays fearlessness, eager to confront any opponent "any time, any where."
Section 1.1: Newt's Survival Instinct
Newt, or Rebecca Jorden as she is properly named, presents a captivating case study in survival against overwhelming odds. This small child manages to endure an invasion by towering, self-replicating aliens, all while maintaining a semblance of sanity as her family falls victim to the onslaught ("they're dead, they're all dead, are you happy now?").
Her survival instinct is evident, although she requires the assistance of an adult to escape the colony. That adult is Ripley, the apex badass and quintessential female hero. Newt’s understanding of the ventilation system becomes crucial in the film's climax, despite her near-capture by the queen—a powerful female antagonist.
Subsection 1.1.1: The Introduction of Vasquez
Vasquez makes her entrance when the colonial marines awaken, performing reverse pull-ups before breakfast. What follows is a masterclass in filmmaking over the next forty seconds. When Hudson queries her regarding her muscular physique, Vasquez's reply, "No. Have you?" is not only a legendary comeback but also a defining moment for her character.
The portrayal of gender is intriguing here. Vasquez, styled in a traditionally masculine manner with short hair and military fatigues, contrasts with Ripley and Newt, who embody more conventional femininity. This dynamic challenges stereotypes, suggesting that female characters can be diverse in appearance and demeanor.
Section 1.2: The Power of Vasquez
Vasquez is not the archetypal 'damsel in distress,' reliant on male characters for survival. Instead, she exhibits a fierce independence, often surpassing her male counterparts in aggression and disobeying orders to unleash her pulse rifle—emblazoned with "ADIOS"—to exact revenge on the aliens.
As the final crew members retreat through the ventilation ducts, Vasquez remains behind, methodically eliminating aliens until her ammunition runs dry. Even in her final moments, she refuses to succumb to despair, demonstrating her unwavering resolve as she utters "no" upon realizing she can no longer fight.
Chapter 2: The Ultimate Sacrifice
Vasquez’s character arc culminates in a poignant act of sacrifice alongside Gorman, the inexperienced squad leader. Their decision to detonate a grenade, a selfless act to buy time for their comrades, exemplifies the spirit of camaraderie.
As they face their demise, Vasquez delivers a final, unforgettable line: "You always were an asshole, Gorman." This moment encapsulates the evolution of their relationship, showcasing the bravery that defines true leadership.
Ripley and Newt ultimately escape, but not without a climactic confrontation between two formidable female forces, which features a symbolic destruction of alien eggs and Ripley’s iconic battle cry: "Get away from her, you bitch!"
The film's portrayal of strong women—Ripley, Newt, and Vasquez—demands recognition and celebration, especially on International Women’s Day and beyond.
Do you agree that "Aliens" exemplifies the best representation of women in film? (While "Terminator" and "Terminator 2" are also contenders, Sarah Connor stands alone, whereas "Aliens" showcases three powerful female characters.) Share your thoughts in the comments, and remember to follow for more insights on film, television, and beyond.