James Cameron’s Aliens, released in 1986, brilliantly expanded the boundaries of sci-fi cinema, not just surpassing the original 1979 film by Ridley Scott but also laying the groundwork for future stories in the franchise. The film introduced three unforgettable characters—Newt, Hicks, and Bishop—alongside Sigourney Weaver’s iconic Ellen Ripley. Fast forward six years later, when the sequel arrived. To Cameron’s frustration, none of those developments carried over. “I thought that was the stupidest fucking thing,” he revealed in a candid discussion with Michael Biehn, who played Hicks, on the latter’s podcast.
Biehn pointedly asked Cameron about the shocking decision made in 1992’s Alien 3 to kill Newt right at the start, despite the heroic efforts to save her in Aliens. “You spent the last third of your movie saving her,” Biehn pointed out, and Cameron couldn’t help but agree: “So, you build a lot of goodwill around the characters of Hicks, Newt, and Bishop. And then the first thing they do in the next film is kill them all off. Really smart, guys.”
Cameron added more fuel to the fire of frustration, remarking, “And replace them with a bunch of fucking convicts that you hate and want to see die, right? Really clever.” His candidness reflects long-standing debates among fans, some of whom echo his sentiments, calling the decision a missed opportunity. Others argue it was a bold move that heightened emotional stakes, paving the way for a fresh narrative direction.
Directed by David Fincher, Alien 3 is notorious for its troubled production, and Cameron offered a pass to the director, acknowledging his talent in films like Zodiac and Fight Club. “Now I’m a big fan of Fincher and his work and all that… so I give him a free pass on that one.” Still, both men recognized the challenges Fincher faced. “He was handed a bowl of shit,” Biehn quipped, to which Cameron nodded in agreement.
Why Did Alien 3 Kill Key Characters?
The decision to eliminate fan-favorite characters has sparked years of debate. Was it a chance to elevate the story or a grave misstep? Cameron clearly leans toward the latter, expressing disappointment that the series moved away from his beloved characters.
What Are Fans Saying About the Alien Franchise?
Opinions are divided, with some fans supporting the bold narrative shifts in Alien 3, while others echo Cameron’s annoyance at the dismissive treatment of established characters. Many had hoped for a rich continuation of their journeys.
What’s Next for the Alien Series?
During the podcast, Cameron touched on new directions for the franchise, including Neill Blomkamp’s previous attempts. He also expressed excitement for Fede Alvarez’s upcoming installment, Alien: Romulus, showing that he still cares deeply about the series’ future.
How Has James Cameron’s Work Influenced the Alien Franchise?
It’s hard to overstate Cameron’s impact on the franchise; his work on Aliens not only set a higher standard for sequels but shaped how we view iconic characters in sci-fi narratives. His lasting connection to the series shows just how much these stories mean to him.
Reflecting on these developments nearly four decades later, it’s clear Cameron’s frustration is rooted in a deep love for the characters and stories he helped create. Let’s keep the conversation going—how do you feel about the choices made in Alien 3? Share your thoughts in the comments below!