Aliens (1986)
James Cameron's thunderous sequel transforms cosmic horror into all-out war, with Sigourney Weaver's Ripley leading Colonial Marines back into the heart of darkness.
Aliens - Movie Information
- Original Title: Aliens
- Release Year: 1986
- Directed by: James Cameron
- Type: Movie
- Genres: Action, Thriller, Sci-Fi
- Age Rating (US): R
- Runtime: 2h 17m
- Original Language: English
- Spoken Languages: English
- Release Date (Theatrical): July 18, 1986 (Canada - 14A), July 18, 1986 (United States - R), August 29, 1986 (United Kingdom - 18), November 12, 1986 (Germany - 16), October 8, 1986 (France - 12), November 6, 1986 (Australia - M), December 18, 1986 (Brazil - 14), December 25, 1986 (Mexico - C), September 24, 1986 (Italy - T), October 29, 1986 (Spain - 16), December 24, 1986 (South Korea - 15)
- Alternative Titles: Aliens - Scontro Finale - Edizione Speciale (IT), 異形2 (TW), Alien 2 el regreso (MX), Aliens (El regreso) (ES), Alien 2 Aliens le retour (FR), Alien 2 (BR), Alien II (US), 에일리언 2 (KR)
- Production Companies: SLM Production Group, 20th Century Fox, Brandywine Productions
- Production Countries: United States of America
Aliens - Plot
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.
Aliens - Trailer
Watch the official trailer and see why this sequel redefined the action genre:
This time it's war.
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Aliens - Cast & Crew
Director(s)
- James Cameron
Main Cast
- Sigourney Weaver
- Carrie Henn
- Michael Biehn
- Paul Reiser
- Lance Henriksen
- Bill Paxton
- William Hope
- Jenette Goldstein
- Al Matthews
- Mark Rolston
Writers
- James Cameron
- David Giler
- Walter Hill
Producers
- Gale Anne Hurd
Aliens - FAQs
Where can you stream or watch Aliens (1986)?
Aliens (1986) is available to rent or buy on Amazon Video, Apple TV Store, Google Play Movies, YouTube, and Fandango At Home. Spectrum On Demand also offers it as a rental. Availability may vary by region. Check JustWatch for current streaming options in your area.
What is the ending of Aliens explained?
Ripley defeats the Alien Queen by ejecting her into space through an airlock aboard the Sulaco. She rescues young survivor Newt and Corporal Hicks, and the android Bishop is severely damaged in the confrontation. The survivors enter hypersleep, closing the chapter on LV-426.
Is Aliens (1986) based on a true story?
No, Aliens is not based on a true story. It is an original science fiction sequel written by James Cameron, building on Ridley Scott's 1979 film Alien. The story of extraterrestrial creatures, Colonial Marines, and deep-space colonies is entirely fictional.
Who are the main actors in Aliens?
Aliens stars Sigourney Weaver as Ripley, Carrie Henn as Newt, Michael Biehn as Corporal Hicks, Paul Reiser as Burke, Lance Henriksen as the android Bishop, and Bill Paxton as the memorable Private Hudson. Jenette Goldstein, Al Matthews, and Mark Rolston round out the Colonial Marines ensemble.
Does Aliens have a post-credits scene?
No, Aliens (1986) does not feature a post-credits scene. The film concludes with Ripley, Newt, Hicks, and the damaged Bishop entering hypersleep aboard the Sulaco. The story continues in Alien³ (1992), directed by David Fincher.
What is the age rating for Aliens?
Aliens is rated R in the United States, reflecting its intense action sequences, graphic creature violence, and strong language. In the United Kingdom it carries an 18 certificate. It is not suitable for younger audiences due to its sustained suspense and visceral combat scenes.
Did Aliens win any awards?
Yes. Aliens won two Academy Awards at the 59th Oscars: Best Sound Editing and Best Visual Effects. Sigourney Weaver received a Best Actress nomination — a rare honor for a science fiction performance — and the film was also nominated for Best Film Editing, Sound, and Original Score.
How long is Aliens and what genre is it?
Aliens runs approximately 137 minutes (2 hours 17 minutes) in its theatrical cut. A longer Special Edition runs around 154 minutes. The film blends Action, Thriller, and Sci-Fi genres, shifting the tone of the original horror-driven Alien into a high-octane military action experience.
More About Aliens
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