Cast
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Charles Napier
as Sheriff Nate Culver
Hoke Howell
as Professor Edgar Chambers
David Homb
as Aaron Doyle
Jodi Seronick
as Carol Nelson
Marc Robinson
as Paul Towers
Robert Thompson
as Deputy Ty Larsen
Ashley Semrick
as Stacy Chambers
Aaron Jettleson
as Max Poindexter
Barbara Fierentino
as Holly Capers
Master Dave Johnson
as Deputy David Stevens
Roger Gluston
as Mr Justice
Lisa Donette May
as Denise Justice
Michael Tremont
as Tommy
Michael Reed
as Farmer
Kurt Paul
as Deputy Harlan Banks
Crew
Director
- Peter Maris
Writer
- Nancy Newhauer
Reviews
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I may have been up really late at night, but I didn't mind 'Alien Species' at all. Its craftsmanship for such a cheap B-movie production was pretty good (although the special effects looked like they were created on a Nintendo or Sega Genesis, and then grafted onto the film), the script was interesting enough in the realm of 'alien hostile takeover' movies, and its pace never lagged for a second. While watching it, the film's ending was very ambiguous, as if this had been planned as a pilot film for a TV-series, or at the very least, a feature-length sequel.
I loved the work of veteran character actors Charles Napier and Hoke Howell (the latter died shortly after the film's completion, and the death is mentioned in the end credits). Their consummate professionalism gave a classy sheen that the film otherwise didn't deserve. It's definitely worth a watch, though, to fans of both B-movies and of science fiction.
Apr 22, 2016
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, Alien Species examines complex human relationships and emotional struggles against the backdrop of a period setting that reflects societal issues of its time. The character development particularly stands out, offering viewers a chance to reflect on their own life journeys.
Director Peter Maris brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to character development and emotional depth creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 1998, the film exists within a cultural context that now offers viewers historical perspective on the social issues of that era. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of Alien Species took approximately 16 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 91 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 135 minutes long.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 4 months to complete.
- The film contains approximately 1690 individual shots.
Historical Context
- In 1998, when this film was released:
- The internet was beginning to transform communication and information access.
- Digital technology was transforming the entertainment industry.
- Independent cinema was growing in influence, challenging the dominance of major studios.
How This Film Stands Out
Details
- Release Date: January 1, 1998
- Runtime: 1h 31m
Where to Watch
