SciFi/Horror Hall Of Fame (actual)

[teeter_g]

WELCOME TO THE SCIFI/HORROR HALL OF FAME

All the hall of fame rules apply: nominate a movie, watch all the nominations, send me your votes of all the films in ranked order.

The deadline is December 21. I threw in an extra week or two because of all the HOFs that are going on at the same time.

If I don't complete all the movies because of work, I will NOT vote. I will, however, keep track of everyones votes and do intend to TRY to watch all the movies.

There has been a fair amount of interest in this, we have Eleven nominations! Thats a couple more than I expected. LOL! :D

Anyway....the participants are as follows:
Iroquois
Guaporense
The Usual Suspect
Thursday Next
Sane
Destiny
Funny Face
Sci Fi Slob
Cricket
Citizen Rules
Teeter_G

Thank you all for your participation and input. Together I think we can make this a fantastic hall of fame that everyone will be sorry that they missed.

* I had to sneak a little bit of cheesy-ness in there. :) Seriously though, have fun, its a game.

[teeter_g]

Videodrome - 1983 - David Cronenberg
Nominated by: Iroquois
http://www.houseofmysterioussecrets.com/images/D/videodrome.gif

Sunshine - 2007 - Danny Boyle
Nominated by: Guaporense
http://beautifulfailures.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/sunshine-poster-2.jpg

Cube - 1997 - Vincenzo Natali
Nominated by: The Usual Suspect
https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/0/0c/Cube_The_Movie_Poster_Art.jpg

28 Days Later - 2002 - Danny Boyle
Nominated by: Thursday Next
http://storybookapothecary.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/mza_7500180050439575583.jpg

The Host - 2006 - Joon-Ho Bong
Nominated by: Sane
http://static.rogerebert.com/uploads/movie/movie_poster/the-host-2007/large_wLe2XnBHv5jJWIv5URin7vyCHbd.jpg

The Fly - 1986 - David Cronenberg
Nominated by: Destiny
https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/a/aa/Fly_poster.jpg

The Invasion of the Body Snatchers - 1978 - Philip Kaufman
Nominated by: Funny Face
https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/9/93/Invasion_of_the_body_snatchers_movie_poster_1978.jpg

Pandorum - 2009 - Christian Alvart
Nominated by: Sci Fi Slob
https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/6/69/Pandorum_OST.jpg

The Hidden - 1987 - Jack Sholder
Nominated by: Cricket
http://www.chud.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/Hidden.jpg

Alien - 1979 - Ridley ScottWINNER
Nominated by: Citizen Rules
https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/c/c3/Alien_movie_poster.jpg

Event Horizon - 1997 - Paul W.S. Anderson
Nominated by: Teeter_G
https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/8/8c/Event_horizon_ver1.jpg

[teeter_g]

Votes that have come in:

Guaporense
Thursday Next
Citizen Rules
Cricket
Funny Face
Iroquois
TUS

[Iroquois]

Wait, did nobody nominate The Thing after all that?

[Nope1172]

Wait, did nobody nominate The Thing after all that?
I'm pretty sure the Thing won the Sci-Fi HoF so it's ineligible.

[Ðèstîñy]

Wait, did nobody nominate The Thing after all that?

I already nominated The Thing, and it won. It can't be nominated again. :)

[Iroquois]

Ah, I must have missed that announcement. Carry on, then.

[Citizen Rules]

Destiny won the Sci Fi Hof with The Thing.

Sci Fi Hof Winner (http://www.movieforums.com/community/showthread.php?anchor=1&p=1333923#post1333923)

Teeter thanks for running this! awesome films too!

You say November 1 for a deadline that's only 27 days to watch 11 films and there are other Hofs running, I'm in 2 others. Maybe you can extend the deadline to 11-12 weeks from today? Or how about Dec 1st for the completion date? What does everyone else think of that?

[teeter_g]

Destiny won the Sci Fi Hof with The Thing.

Sci Fi Hof Winner (http://www.movieforums.com/community/showthread.php?anchor=1&p=1333923#post1333923)

Teeter thanks for running this! awesome films too!

You say November 1 for a deadline that's only 27 days to watch 11 films and there are other Hofs running, I'm in 2 others. Maybe you can extend the deadline to 11-12 weeks from today? Or how about Dec 1st for the completion date? What does everyone else think of that?

Doesn't sound bad to me, if everyone else agrees I will change completion date to December 1st.

[Captain Spaulding]

Alien has got this in the bag.

[Swan]

Alien has got this in the bag.

I wouldn't be so sure, except that I am.

[TheUsualSuspect]

It almost seems unfair.

[Thursday Next]

It's not the winning, it's the taking part that counts.

[mark f]

I think the HoFs would be better if nobody knew who "sponsored" a film. I guess whoever's running it would have to know, but in a perfect world, they wouldn't know either. Ever. :cool:

[Ðèstîñy]

Doesn't sound bad to me, if everyone else agrees I will change completion date to December 1st.

That's eight weeks. I suppose that'll work. They normally give one week per movie, when setting these up, but it does usually seem like a bit too much.

Alien has got this in the bag.

Shhhhhhhhh!!!

It's not the winning, it's the taking part that counts.

What she said!

[teeter_g]

I have decided I am going to extend the end date. It is in the original post now.

[Guaporense]

I think the HoFs would be better if nobody knew who "sponsored" a film. I guess whoever's running it would have to know, but in a perfect world, they wouldn't know either. Ever. :cool:

That's a great idea actually. Only the person running it should know who nominated what. Then it would remove any potential biases from associating a movie with a person.

[cricket]

The movies I haven't seen yet are Sunshine, Cube, Pandorum, and Event Horizon. They'll have a tough time breaking into my top 7 because the others are all awesome.

[Ðèstîñy]

The Invasion of the Body Snatchers - 1978 - Philip Kaufman
The Hidden - 1987 - Jack Sholder
The Fly - 1986 - David Cronenberg
Alien - 1979 - Ridley Scott

I only own/have seen, those four. They are in order, from favorite, to least favorite. We will have to see if I fall in love with anything else.

[Thursday Next]

I never remember who nominated a film anyway! And I don't like or dislike anyone enough to give or take points based on who nominated it. (Besides, if there's a lone anime, you could probably guess who nominated it without being told). I think if it was all secret people would spend a lot of time trying to guess who nominated what and/or not talking up 'their' movie so that people don't guess rather than just watching the movies.

[cricket]

I definitely have to watch Videodrome, The Host, Invasion of the Body Snatchers, and 28 Days Later again. The Fly, Alien, and The Hidden I know very well, but I may watch those again anyway. I think I'm going to watch one I haven't seen tonight.

[cricket]

Pandorum

http://cdn.moviestillsdb.com/sm/151a0a1453f3f97242fd3c770d5c8fda/pandorum.jpg

To me, this was a mix of Aliens and The Descent, but unfortunately, it wasn't nearly as good as either of those. I thought it was mediocre overall, but that doesn't mean I didn't have some fun. There were some good action scenes and jump scares, and I liked the monsters. I wasn't crazy about the cast. Dennis Quaid and Ben Foster are both actors that I like, but they did nothing to distinguish themselves in this. The supporting cast was poor. It was made ok; not down to B-movie quality, but also not quite up to the standards of a major release. I did moderately enjoy it, and it fits this Hall of Fame's theme perfectly, so not a bad nomination.

2.5

[MovieMeditation]

I never finished Pandorum, I got up and left. I rarely ever do that but I couldn't stand it... and that was even before I was really into cinema. I seem to remember the editing was awful.

[Funny Face]

The Fly (1986)

Haven't watched this movie in 15+ years. Forgot most of the scenes but watching again I remembered how much the arm wrestle and teeth scene made me cringe. I've had a strange recurring nightmare of losing teeth since I was a kid- wonder if this movie has anything to do with it?! :laugh: Still like the movie but I'm thinking the Jeff and Geena chemistry is partly why I enjoy it now. Made me a little sad to see Seth transform into Brundlefly, mentally and physically, but thought of Mac in Earth Girls are Easy and instantly felt better. :D
http://38.media.tumblr.com/2127c426ab121a6aa6cd109be7c1271d/tumblr_n4plsi8dWb1qcqqpjo1_r1_250.gif

Overall, with the storyline, characters and special effects, The Fly is one of my favorite SciFi/Horrors and makes me want to finally get around to watching the original 1958 version.

[Swan]

The Fly is, simply, the most heartbreaking film I've ever seen.

[cricket]

I watched a deleted scene from The Fly last night that I had never seen before. He fuses a baboon with a cat, and when it becomes a hideous creation, he beats it to death. It's on YouTube.

[Citizen Rules]

Well said Swan! I'll never forget the very last scene!

[Funny Face]

The Fly is, simply, the most heartbreaking film I've ever seen.
There, there Swan. Mac will comfort you.

http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-h2p1ZW9v1cQ/Vb3k52M8CvI/AAAAAAAAQlk/h_zDAMkhCmo/s320/love%2Btouch%2Bkiss.gif

[Funny Face]

I watched a deleted scene from The Fly last night that I had never seen before. He fuses a baboon with a cat, and when it becomes a hideous creation, he beats it to death. It's on YouTube.
Just watched it. Kinda wish they included it. Would have added to his horrific proposal to Veronica. Here's the link if anyone wants to watch: Deleted baboon scene (https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=QizX5msl-G0)

[TheUsualSuspect]

Pandorum

https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/thumb/3/3d/Pandorum-Poster.jpg/220px-Pandorum-Poster.jpg

I actually like this film. I feel like it had the right amount of suspense and tension for a claustrophobic tale set in space. Cricket mentioned the film feels like Aliens and The Descent, it does feel like a lesser version of those two films. Those two films are so good though, so a lesser version in my eyes still has some redeeming qualities.

I liked the direction this film took and the ending got me as well. A decent sci/fi horror film that fits the criteria of this HOF perfectly. I believe fans of the genre will find this movie at the very least, entertaining.

3.5

Though, I suspect most people will rate this a 3 or lower. This film was more geared towards my taste in movies.

[teeter_g]

I would give Pandorum a 3.5 as well, TUS. I really enjoyed it and thought that it went in the direction that I am more attracted to in movies. I loved the cast and thought that they did well with it.

[teeter_g]

Of the movies that I have seen in this HOF their rankings, in my mind, so far:

Event Horizon
Alien
Pandorum
The Fly
28 Days Later
Invasion of the Body Snatchers

[cricket]

Invasion of the Body Snatchers

http://cdn.moviestillsdb.com/sm/597e6000ce28773b8ce2440c7a10a4c5/invasion-of-the-body-snatchers.jpg

It's been a long time since I last seen this, and I only remembered bits and pieces. The movie uses the tried and true formula of people having their bodies taken over, that's often present in SciFi/horror. The winner of the Sci-Fi Hall of Fame, The Thing, has this theme, and it's a theme that I'll see again in this Hall of Fame. This movie does not have a unique setting like some of the others, but with it being set on earth amongst average people, the viewer can relate to it a little bit more. It's a pretty eerie movie, and that eeriness starts pretty quick. The cast is probably a little above average for the genre. It's not a movie that overly excites me, and I think it could use with being a few minutes shorter, but this is a really good flick.

3+

[Thursday Next]

Invasion of the Body Snatchers

I watched this just a couple of weeks ago. So now I know where the phrase 'pod people' comes from. I thought this was a solid film, good cast, effectively creepy. The ending was good. Not an all time favourite, but a decent film. I haven't seen the 50s version, so I don't know how similar they are. A lot of people complain now about remakes of films which are only twenty years old, but it's not only a 21st century phenomenon, clearly.

Event Horizon

Weird **** happens in space. The Solaris influence is obvious, and I'd say the makers of this film had probably watched Magnetic Rose as well. I liked this to start off with, I really liked the design of the ships and I liked some of the characters, although there were a few too many of them to get to know them all that well. Almost as if they were only there to up the body count. In the end though I thought it lacked a bit of subtlety, like creepiness was thrown over in favour of gore.

Cube

It's not exactly an A movie in terms of its production values or acting, but it's a very innovative idea which makes for an engrossing film. The room where they can't make any sound was possibly the most tense thing I have ever watched. There are a lot of unanswered questions, but that's fine by me. Part of the horror is the not knowing, it doesn't need to be over explained.

I've also seen Alien, 28 Days Later and Sunshine but longer ago, so I'm hoping to rewatch them and then give some thoughts. So far I like all of the movies I have seen, it'll be tough to order them.

[TheUsualSuspect]

Cube

It's not exactly an A movie in terms of its production values or acting, but it's a very innovative idea which makes for an engrossing film. The room where they can't make any sound was possibly the most tense thing I have ever watched. There are a lot of unanswered questions, but that's fine by me. Part of the horror is the not knowing, it doesn't need to be over explained.

I've also seen Alien, 28 Days Later and Sunshine but longer ago, so I'm hoping to rewatch them and then give some thoughts. So far I like all of the movies I have seen, it'll be tough to order them.

I love the film Cube. Canadian production, shot in Canada, for under $400,000 and shot only in one cube.

One freaking cube that used trick photography and different light panels to give the illusion of thousands.

There was a different ending shot, but was immediately discarded because it gave too many "answers". I personally love the ambiguity of the film. If you wish to learn more, watch the 3rd Cube film, it dives deeper into the "Man Behind The Curtain" aspect. It's an interesting idea, but ultimately I feel it takes away the excitement of the viewers imagination.

This was the very first Canadian Film Centre feature film. For those who don't know what the CFC is, it's a bunch of film students. Film students made this film.

When people talk about great indie sci/fi flicks, I rarely hear Cube mentioned, which is a shame. This film is a gem.

[The Sci-Fi Slob]

Is it ok if I review these without watching them, as I've seen each one at least 1.6 million times (estimated).:)

[Thursday Next]

Sure, there's no rule that says you have to rewatch them.

[Thursday Next]

Pandorum

I had never heard of this film before and watched it without knowing anything about it or any preconceived ideas, which was probably for the best as it is in some ways a mystery film. I enjoyed it for the most part. It's a fairly simple concept, I liked the colours. Towards the end it gets a bit twist-happy, which wasn't strictly necessary, but I liked the actual ending. It leaves you with enough questions to want more. I've seen since that it's had some pretty bad reviews, and I don't really know why. It's not quite a classic, but it's a good watch.

[Citizen Rules]

Spoiler Free Review! Safe to read if you haven't seen the movie, in fact you need to read this before watching it;)

http://livedoor.blogimg.jp/yucke0507/imgs/7/5/754773ea-s.jpg
Invasion of the Body Snatchers (1978)

Wholly smokes! This movie rocks! It's miles ahead of most sci fi films. Hell, it's miles ahead of most films period!...I knew right away that this was made by an intelligent director who cared to do it right. Each scene is a thing of beauty: the sets are richly detailed and well dressed out. This was shot inside real buildings in San Francisco, no fakey Hollywood sets here. The art direction in this film is so amazing, with many fine details in the background that help to create realism (and that's really important in sci fi)... some of those details create atmosphere too. And damn! this movie is dripping in atmosphere.

Take a look at that still shot from the movie, look at how the oddly shaped trees adds to the creepiness. This film is stacked full of such shots.

Look for these shots:

When Brooke Adams walks into the park, watch the teacher with the children and the priest on the swings.

When Donald Sutherland is chopping up vegetables in his kitchen look at the hand shaped ginger root.

When they look for a missing body in a solarium look at how the busted flower pot looks like a face.

I could go on, but I'll just say the camera work is perfection. The way they do off centered and tilted shots gives a real sense of foreboding...as does the film noir style lighting in some of the darker interior shots. This film is put together like a master piece. The script is intelligent. The actors are so in-tuned to what they are doing that they seem real people which makes this more creepy. Don't let the mediocre, special effects used in the opening title sequences fool you, the entire rest of the movie is 5 star stuff.

[gbgoodies]

Spoiler Free Review! Safe to read if you haven't seen the movie, in fact you need to read this before watching it;)

http://livedoor.blogimg.jp/yucke0507/imgs/7/5/754773ea-s.jpg
Invasion of the Body Snatchers (1978)

Wholly smokes! This movie rocks! It's miles ahead of most sci fi films. Hell, it's miles ahead of most films period!...I knew right away that this was made by an intelligent director who cared to do it right. Each scene is a thing of beauty: the sets are richly detailed and well dressed out. This was shot inside real buildings in San Francisco, no fakey Hollywood sets here. The art direction in this film is so amazing, with many fine details in the background that help to create realism (and that's really important in sci fi)... some of those details create atmosphere too. And damn! this movie is dripping in atmosphere.

Take a look at that still shot from the movie, look at how the oddly shaped trees adds to the creepiness. This film is stacked full of such shots.

Look for these shots:

When Brooke Adams walks into the park, watch the teacher with the children and the priest on the swings.

When Donald Sutherland is chopping up vegetables in his kitchen look at the hand shaped ginger root.

When they look for a missing body in a solarium look at how the busted flower pot looks like a face.

I could go on, but I'll just say the camera work is perfection. The way they do off centered and tilted shots gives a real sense of foreboding...as does the film noir style lighting in some of the darker interior shots. This film is put together like a master piece. The script is intelligent. The actors are so in-tuned to what they are doing that they seem real people which makes this more creepy. Don't let the mediocre, special effects used in the opening title sequences fool you, the entire rest of the movie is 5 star stuff.







"Creepy". That's the perfect word to describe this movie. :eek:

[Citizen Rules]

Yup! I was so impressed with it, that I'm watching the 1956 original tonight.

[gbgoodies]

Yup! I was so impressed with it, that I'm watching the 1956 original tonight.


I haven't seen the 1956 version in many years, but as I recall, it was a pretty good version. But you can probably skip the 2007 version The Invasion. If I remember correctly, it was more disgusting horror than creepy thriller. :sick:

[Citizen Rules]

:cool: I was the one who suggested that you watch the 2007 version:D. I kind of liked it too, but yah it had the whole zombie influence thing.

Catch ya latter! off to watch my movie with fresh homemade pizza!

[gbgoodies]

:cool: I was the one who suggested that you watch the 2007 version:D. I kind of liked it too, but yah it had the whole zombie influence thing.

Catch ya latter! off to watch my movie with fresh homemade pizza!


I knew that it was either you or Capt. Steel. :)

Enjoy your pizza and movie.

[Swan]

56 version is awesome. Enjoy Citizen.

[Camo]

I think the line between "creepy" and "unintentionally funny" is very close and i always found that Body Snatchers the latter. Great film though!

[Citizen Rules]

I watched the 1956 original version of The Invasion of the Body Snatchers, it was good! entertainment but not on the professional level of the 1978 version. I learned from IMDB trivia the the 56 version had originally had lots of dry humor in it, but the studio would not allow humor in a horror film so ordered the humor scenes cut. That's probably why it's so short at only 80 minutes.

Interesting tidbit, the star of the 56 version, Kevin McCarthy has a cameo role in the 1978 movie. He's the gray haired man who runs into the windshield of Donald Sutherland's car. And one of the leading actresses in the 1978 movie, Veronica Cartwright has a cameo role in the third version, The Invasion (2007). I'm sure no one really cares about all that, but I thought it was cool.

[Derek Vinyard]

Event Horizon is awesome. great nomination teeter! If I had participated in this HoF it would be pretty high on my list ;)

[Citizen Rules]

http://www.creedgaming.net/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/alien-705x441.jpg
Alien (1979).....'In space no one can hear you scream.'

Alien is one of the great Sci Fi Horror films. When it first came out people talked about it...as it was on the cutting edge of Sci Fi Horror. Over 35 years latter this film is still being talked about.

I watched the original 1979 theatrical release, there's also a Director's Cut (2003). Most of you already know about this classic, so I'll just tell you what I personally loved about it:

http://indiejudge.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/03/Aliens-1979-Hallway-Ship.jpg
The Sets: I wish I could see this on the big screen. The sets are stunning, especially when you consider this was made in 1979. The ship Nostromo looks real, it's dark, functional looking and big! I love the way it looks lived in with little personal items laying about.


http://static1.1.sqspcdn.com/static/f/627490/16404032/1328316278877/alien1979theatricalrele.jpg?token=roJC9xBGv63kgJ%2FRya5fT24%2FP6M%3D
Cinematography: Ridley Scott knows how to give his films atmosphere! His secret: dark subdued lighting and smoke, lots of smoky mist. This hides some of the background making the sets look like they go on forever...Low Key Lighting, is often used in film noir, here Ridley uses it to accent the subjects while keeping most of the background in a shadowy dark, which gives great depth to his compositions. Long Takes and Sweeping Tracking Shots, Ridley knows how to take his time, the camera is never rushed. He makes use of gentler camera movements with less edits and longer takes, which gives the viewer a chance to reflect on what's happening in the scene.

Music Score: The score is exquisite! It's haunting, foreboding and dark...just like the deep of space. Yet it never becomes obvious or overly dominate. The score sets the mood without getting in the way.


http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qql8wjoopB8/T8jHMSDU12I/AAAAAAAANp4/7xF1FRgT4lg/s1600/alien14.jpg
Characters: The crew of the Nostromo are interesting characters! I'll focus on the most important one, Ripley (Sigourney Weaver). Ripley is a take charge, tough woman. It's refreshing to see a woman take the lead and be the courageous leader for once. Ripley is also very human and at times afraid...and who wouldn't be. But she doesn't let her fear of the creature stop her from trying to survive. My favorite Ripley moment is when she spots the alien and as she puts on a space suit, she nervously says the words from "You Are My Lucky Star".


H. R. Giger: My praise goes to the other star of Alien, H.R. Giger. A Swedish surrealist artist who's art heavily influenced the movie. He was the designer of the Alien creature and his work influenced the interior of the alien ship, He worked on many other films as well. He died before his time in 2014 at the age of 74. When you watch Alien, remember the man behind the alien mask. Without Giger there would be no Alien.
https://giger.com/resource.php?id=233

I hope everyone enjoys Alien as much as I did!

[cricket]

That's a great write-up, CR. I'll be too tired to watch it tonight, but I'm looking forward to seeing it this week.

[Captain Steel]

Personal recollections of Alien - still the best Sci-Fi / Horror film!

It was the first film I saw on VHS. I had a friend who's parents always had the latest technology - so they had the first Video Cassette Recorder I'd ever seen. I remember going with them to rent videos in the back of a jewelry store (???) There were no video rental stores yet and it just seemed like something illegal - going to an area in the back of this store to rent videos - it had a clandestine feel to it. It seemed like some secret that only (what we now call) the 1 percenters had access to because no one who wasn't on the high end of society would be in this expensive jewelry store.

Anyway, after watching the film, I had to walk home (about a mile). It was late, it was dark and my route was through shadowy passageways and back alleys. I was just a youngster so I remember being a bit on edge. :)

[Citizen Rules]

Thanks Cricket..as always I look forward to hearing your thoughts on the film. I'm guessing you've seen it before, how long has it been?

Captain, very interesting about the clandestine videos in back of the jewelery store...are you sure those were only R rated;)...Alien was a great first choice for first time watching a movie on a VCR. Can I ask what year that was?

I remember my parents had a VCR in 1984, the kind with a wired remote. The remote control had a crazy wire attaching it to the VCR. Late at night, in the dark, I would get up and run into the wire almost pulling the VCR off the TV!

[Captain Steel]

Thanks Cricket..as always I look forward to hearing your thoughts on the film. I'm guessing you've seen it before, how long has it been?

Captain, very interesting about the clandestine videos in back of the jewelery store...are you sure those were only R rated;)...Alien was a great first choice for first time watching a movie on a VCR. Can I ask what year that was?

I remember my parents had a VCR in 1984, the kind with a wired remote. The remote control had a crazy wire attaching it to the VCR. Late at night, in the dark, I would get up and run into the wire almost pulling the VCR off the TV!

Ha! I've never heard of a wired remote!
At the time I saw Alien, watching a movie at home at your own discretion was unheard of. If you had cable you could watch whatever movies HBO happened to be showing or watch what was on the "13" channels.
So seeing Alien in a home (and being able to pause it and such) was a complete novelty. Add to that how scary and excellent the movie was!

So, Rules, have you seen the sequel: Aliens? I don't want to spoil if not, but it's a fantastic continuation of Ripley's story but in a very different kind of movie. Still, both I & II are great, each in their own way.

Unfortunately, III (in my opinion) suffers from the third movie curse.

[Citizen Rules]

I've seen Aliens, yup great film! and Aliens 3...but many years ago. I think I'll watch them both again for Halloween. I haven't seen Alien: Resurrection but did see Prometheus.

Now that I look there are even more Alien franchise films in the works.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alien_%28franchise%29

[The Sci-Fi Slob]

I've seen Aliens, yup great film! and Aliens 3...but many years ago..]Watch Alien 3 director's cut, it's awesomely amazingly superduper!

[Citizen Rules]

Slob, which do you like better directors cut or original for Alien (1979)?

[cricket]

Thanks Cricket..as always I look forward to hearing your thoughts on the film. I'm guessing you've seen it before, how long has it been?

Not sure, anywhere from 15 to 30 years, but I remember it fairly well.

[gbgoodies]

Captain, very interesting about the clandestine videos in back of the jewelery store...are you sure those were only R rated;)...Alien was a great first choice for first time watching a movie on a VCR. Can I ask what year that was?

I remember my parents had a VCR in 1984, the kind with a wired remote. The remote control had a crazy wire attaching it to the VCR. Late at night, in the dark, I would get up and run into the wire almost pulling the VCR off the TV!


I remember those wired remotes. Do you remember the VCRs that loaded from the top, not the front? They had a part on top that popped up, and you had to slide the tape into it and push it down into the VCR. To record using the timer, you had to push the PAUSE button first, then press both PLAY and RECORD. When the timer started, the pause button would release, and the VCR would record, but it didn't have a way to stop, so it would keep recording until it reached the end of the tape, or until someone manually stopped it.

[Citizen Rules]

I remember those top loading VCRs, but nope my parents VCR loaded from the front. I think they bought it in 1984.

[gbgoodies]

I remember those top loading VCRs, but nope my parents VCR loaded from the front. I think they bought it in 1984.


My parents bought their first VCR around 1980, maybe even a year or two earlier, but I got my first VCR, (that was mine, not my parents), in 1982. I was always using their VCR, so when I turned 16, they gave me a choice. They would either pay for a big Sweet 16 party at some fancy expensive place, or they would buy me my own VCR, and I could have a small party at home. I chose the VCR and a pizza party. (The VCR cost over $1000 including the warranty back then.)

[The Sci-Fi Slob]

Slob, which do you like better directors cut or original for Alien (1979)?
I prefer the original cut. The added scenes remove some of the mystery, especially the scene with Dallas in the alien nest.

[TheUsualSuspect]

Alien was one of the first R rated films I remember seeing. Loved it then, love it now. Will probably watch a bluray copy soon.

[Fabulous]

Guaporense with the best nomination. :up:

[cricket]

Alien

http://cdn.moviestillsdb.com/sm/b16bb0402a01570bd7c291a7af6191d1/alien.jpg

It had been so long since I last saw this that I have no idea when it was. I did watch it several times in my teens, so I remembered it fairly well. I can remember when it first came out when I was 8 years old, and all the hoopla surrounding it. It was only one of two movies, with the other being Dawn of the Dead, that my parents made me wait to watch. I was so jealous that my older brother got to see it right away. Finally in the early 80's, while I was staying at a friend's house for the weekend, we managed to get a copy at the library. We watched it over and over again.

As I've said in the past, there are not a lot of movies I love that aren't set on modern earth. This movie and it's first sequel, and the original Star Wars trilogy are the most notable exceptions. Beyond that, it's slim pickings for me.

The first thing I noticed when watching this last night was how well it has aged. It sure didn't look like a 36 year old movie to me. The small cast of seven is terrific. It's got a nice group of actors and they all do a terrific job. Beyond that, it's just so well done in all aspects. It's also got perhaps the all time greatest tagline. If I'm going to nitpick, I think the musical score could've been more effective at times, and to me the last few minutes could be a tad better. As far as the franchise as a whole, I prefer Aliens over this, but that's one of my big favorites. I did not like part 3 when I saw it at the movies, and I have not seen part 4. It was awesome to see this again after so many years. It's a movie that deserves it's praise.

4.5

[Citizen Rules]

Nice write up, Cricket. I'm glad you liked it!

I have heard you say before that you don't usually care for movies that aren't set on modern Earth. Can I ask why you feel that way? I'm just curious:) as I'm the opposite of that. My least favorite films are set in modern day America.

[cricket]

Nice write up, Cricket. I'm glad you liked it!

I have heard you say before that you don't usually care for movies that aren't set on modern Earth. Can I ask why you feel that way? I'm just curious:) as I'm the opposite of that. My least favorite films are set in modern day America.

I'm not sure, but I don't think it's a realism issue. For instance I like Superhero movies, but the ones I don't like as much are Guardians of the Galaxy and Thor, which are mostly set on another planet. I like Sci-Fi on earth, but not in space. I really don't know.

[Citizen Rules]

OK, thanks:)

For me I guess I like escapism in movies, so that's why I like period pieces, old films made in the 30s-60s, westerns and sci fi. It's interesting how we all have some similarities in film preferences and differences too. But it's all good!

[Redwell]

Long live the new flesh!

[Citizen Rules]

Long live the new flesh! That's my next movie to watch. I decided to watch these in chronological order:

Invasion of the Body Snatchers(1978)
Alien (1979)
Videodrome (1983)
The Fly (1986)
The Hidden (1987)
Event Horizon (1997)
Cube (1997)
28 Days Later (2002)
The Host (2006)
Sunshine (2007)
Pandorum (2009)

[Thursday Next]

The Fly

I liked the story, but I wasn't so keen on the grosser aspects of the film. Perhaps I can't penetrate beyond society's sick gray fear of the flesh ;)

[cricket]

The Hidden

http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-D9xbJ8_ouFw/U-QlWvx85UI/AAAAAAAAhzw/mCaCa_HqrVc/s1600/Hidden-The-Chris-Mulkey-01.jpg

I first saw this at the movies when I was 16, and then again several times since. It will never be as awesome as it was back then, as now the cheesy 80's style is noticeable, but there's not many movies that top it for pure fun. There's never a dull moment and the cast does a good job. Watch out for Danny Trejo in a quick appearance at the end as a prisoner. There's a lot of violence but it never gets nasty. Widely known as a cult classic and an underrated movie, but I think most people have seen it at this point. I love it!

4+

[Citizen Rules]

I think most people have seen it at this point. Not me:D...Oh, is that a Ferrari they toasted, ouch!

[Captain Steel]

Not me:D...Oh, is that a Ferrari they toasted, ouch!

I have to second Cricket on that - The Hidden is a great film. And I do think it's underrated as a lot of people, including some hard core Science Fiction fans, have never heard of it.
Haven't seen it in a long time, but viewed it more than a couple times years ago.
I don't recall that it relies heavily on special effects - I believe they're pretty minimal. Yet it's a solid Sci-Fi thriller that takes hold and doesn't let go.

[cricket]

Sunshine

http://cdn.moviestillsdb.com/sm/58e018ed12ffad6c5ea47bb2f4f7877f/sunshine.jpg

The only thing I knew of this before was that it's on the Millennium list. I usually like Guap's live action favorites, so I had a good feeling going in. For me, it was too much Sci-Fi and no horror. I usually have a very hard time with Sci-Fi unless there is horror or a lot of action. Fortunately, there was plenty of tension and I really liked the story. The cast did a fine job and it's well made. It's a good movie, and I liked it, but it's not the kind of movie I usually would love.

3

[Ðèstîñy]

Halloween week is here. I shall watch these movies, during this time. Just so ya know. :)

[Citizen Rules]

http://www.wow247.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/Videodrome.jpg
Videodrome

Crazy stuff! This has got to be one of the weirdest sci fi films I've seen. Nothing is weirder than the combination of these two:
https://s3.amazonaws.com/criterion-production/stills/131313-85c510ee11d4bab79ba9b05cae07c41a/Film_248w_Videodrome_original.jpg
James Woods & Deborah Harry. They just extrude sleezy-creepy. Throw into that mix, the strangest of the strange, David Cronenberg and you get bizarre spelled with a capital SM. Not my kind of film by a mile...but I bet the dearly departed MovieGal would have loved this one.

I bet Cricket will love this too.

[Ðèstîñy]

I just moved your post, Citz. You had this in the thread for the Halloween Song Tournament.

[Citizen Rules]

Thank you!

[Guaporense]

Nice write up, Cricket. I'm glad you liked it!

I have heard you say before that you don't usually care for movies that aren't set on modern Earth. Can I ask why you feel that way? I'm just curious:) as I'm the opposite of that. My least favorite films are set in modern day America.

Hum, let's see Totoro is set in 1950's Japan, as are Ikiru and Tokyo Story. Mononoke is set in 15th century Japan. PMMM is set in a kind-of near future Japan. Spirited Away is set in contemporary Japan but 90% of it is in a fantasy land.

2001 is set in the early 21st century from a 1960's sci fi fanboy perspective. Gunbuster is set in the early 21st century from a 1980's mecha fanboy perspective. Stalker is set in Russia in the 1980's I think but has a really weird atmosphere. Nausicaa is set in a post-apocalyptic Earth over a 1,000 years from now.

[Guaporense]

Finished it. Sent in my list. Overall I would say this is the most consistently enjoyable set of movies for a HoF that I have watched: Sci fi horror is incredibly entertaining so it's hard for me to not enjoy it.

[Guaporense]

It's not the winning, it's the taking part that counts.

Yeah, who cares about the winner? If I nominated movies to win I would nominate The Godfather, The Shining, Goodfellas, Pulp Fiction and Star Wars for the HoFs.

[cricket]

Videodrome

http://cdn.moviestillsdb.com/sm/2dc3af5c4e397eb96c9f566967962ffc/videodrome.jpg

I still remember when this came out back in 1983. I really wanted to see it, but I was too young to find a way. It then became one of those movies that I never got around to, until I first saw it about a year or two ago. I just finished watching it for the second time, and nothing has changed.

This movie is a little bizarre for my normal taste, but ace director David Cronenberg rarely let's me down. James Woods is the big plus for me. He's one of my favorite actors, and he's at his sleazy best in this. Debbie Harry is another nice bonus. I've had a thing for her since I was a kid, and she gives the second stand-out performance of the movie. This is a really freaky and original movie, that I think was probably ahead of it's time. At less than 90 minutes, it's a very easy watch, and it was an excellent nomination for this Hall of Fame.

3.5

[Citizen Rules]

http://www.movieforums.com/community/attachment.php?attachmentid=22993&stc=1&d=1446395211
The Fly

I used that photo, as to me that's what the film is about...it's about the trust and love that grew between a reclusive, lonely scientist and the woman reporter who at first tricks him to get the story of the century, then bonds with him. Most everyone will focus on the horror elements of The Fly, but it's so much more than just gore.

From the moment the film starts, it pulled me into the story. It felt real, the people (Jeff Goldblum and Geena Davis) seemed real and they had real chemistry together. The film stays tightly focused on those two and in that way feels very intimate. By introducing a third character, a love triangle is formed with jealousy at it's center. That love triangle then drives the story, as each characters emotional reaction creates events that furthers the story along. It's brilliantly done and the best film I've seen from David Cronenberg.

With all of its sci fi horror and special effects, it's the humanity that shines through this wonderful film.






.

[MovieMeditation]

Great to see love for these two Cronenberg flicks!^^

They are both awesome with The Fly being an absolute masterpiece! :up:

[cricket]

Nice write-up CR; I completely agree with you, and I look forward to seeing The Fly again. Was this the first time you've seen it?

[Citizen Rules]

Thanks....That was my second time of watching it. I had seen it once in the 80s, a long time ago.

[Citizen Rules]

https://doctorhavok.files.wordpress.com/2015/04/wpid-wp-1430231467244.jpeg?w=683
Event Horizon

I had seen this once before, about 15 years ago. I hardly remembered anything. I'd say this is a great, fun-horror-gore film, that takes place on a really cool space ship. To me the ship was the best thing, as there wasn't much of character development or intriguing story lines. People just wonder around this big creepy ship and get killed in gory ways. Actual if you like clever gore, it wasn't to clever, pretty much standard fare. This movie is best taken as fun entertainment...and there's nothing wrong with pop corn fun movies.

I'd give a 5/5 rating for the art design! The ship was cool, especially the rotating hall way and the singularity engine drive which looked like a giant gyroscope. Since this movie first came out those sets have been copied in other sci fi movies. I just wished there was more of a plot and more fleshing out of the main characters.

[TheUsualSuspect]

Alien

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v118/layden/Posters/alien.jpg?t=1317777758

What else can be said about this film that hasn't already been said?

This films demands to be seen by anyone who calls themselves a sci/fi fan, or a horror fan. One of the benchmark films, in both genres, Alien is one hell of a nail biting ride from start to finish. The claustrophobic atmosphere adds multiple layers of tension to an already tense situation. Scott only shows us glimpses of the alien here and there, much like the film Jaws. We only see parts of it before it attacks. It hits the nail on the head perfectly for this HOF. A little too perfect because this and The Thing are obvious choices in my book.

[cricket]

The Host

http://cdn.moviestillsdb.com/sm/af3b4d1a78850bb6832d387deddfd601/gwoemul.jpg

This was my second time watching this. I first saw it back when it was released on video, and I think it was the last movie I ever got from a video store. I feel pretty much the same after this viewing.

I would consider this one of the great monster movies. The movie is awesome whenever there is action. I do think the movie would benefit from being about 20 minutes shorter, not that I think that there's anything weak when the monster is off screen, but this movie could have been an all time great thrill ride. It's also a little uneven in tone for me. That may be me being a little picky considering what kind of movie it is, but it's a complaint I often have in all types of movies. All in all I think this is a pretty strong nomination that offers plenty of excitement.

3.5

[Tugg]

Scott only shows us glimpses of the alien here and there, much like the film Jaws. We only see parts of it before it attacks.
That's why "Alien" (1979) is better than "Aliens" (1986). In "Aliens" we are supposed to believe one woman and a child prevailed where military squad of elite soldiers failed. Also, other than killing off said squad, the aliens (1986) were or appeared to be more sloppy than the alien (1979) plausibly because we didn't see him much.

[honeykid]

Plus Aliens is ****. Alien is better by default.

[Thursday Next]

Videodrome

“You’ll forgive me if I don’t stay around to watch. I just can’t cope with the freaky stuff.”

I felt about this one much like I did about The Fly. It's interesting, until it goes over the top with all the flesh horror, then it just loses me a bit. A very interesting film, though, with some great quotable dialogue.


Sunshine

This was a rewatch. I remember liking this a lot, but I couldn't remember much about it, and I was a little disappointed on rewatching it that it didn't capture my interest as much. It's still a good film, though, but might not place quite as high on my list as I thought it would.


I've got two more to see, The Hidden and Alien (rewatch). I haven't disliked any of the films so far, so ranking them is going to be pretty difficult. There are a couple which I really like, then a whole lot which I like, so it will be a difficult decision to sort those ones. Something will have to go last!

[Citizen Rules]

http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SxYqQkQIaR0/U-QlZzFqJzI/AAAAAAAAh0Q/BRLnh_n9ZJI/s1600/Hidden-The-Claudia-Christian-06.jpg
The Hidden

Well not much is hidden there;) What I love about these Hofs is that I find movies I had never seen or even heard of. In the 80s I watched every sci fi I could find, but this one escaped me. What an entertaining, never boring, interesting film. I love that this film reeks of the 80s...in a good way. If it was made today the director would get high praise for his parody of all things 1980s. I mean we get people listening to 'boom boxes', driving Ferrari's, a 'new wave' soundtrack and all those 80's fashions, like that red dress!

There's a lot of gun play and people drop like flies but it's never overly violent or sadistic. Best of all this film has a sense of humor. I loved how the 'hidden' alien loved to rock out to obscure 80s rock/pop music but flies into a range when country music is played! Never a dull moment in this one. Glad I watched it.

[honeykid]

I love The Hidden. I still have my VHS copy upstairs. :)

[cricket]

Glad you liked it, CR, it's a fun movie.

[Citizen Rules]

Thanks for nominating it:)...Holy Smokes! I never seen Claudia Christian look like that! I know her from Babylon 5 but her uniform wasn't bare backed;)

[Thursday Next]

Watched The Hidden. Enjoyed it. I've always suspected Kyle MacLachlan was an alien.

I think that's all the films, although I do still want to rewatch Alien. I think this has been the most enjoyable hall of fame yet, both in terms of it having fun movies and lacking any kind of drama from the participants!

I feel like I haven't really had much to say about all these films, but they've all been pretty good. It'll be a tough job ordering them.

[Sedai]

The Hidden is a fun flick! I like some of the music, as well.

[cricket]

Event Horizon

http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LerRdfwdCXo/UyIj6f385EI/AAAAAAAAo1w/orrlEE1ADU0/s1600/eventhorizon27.png

The set in outer space movies continue to be a problem for me, with the exception of Alien. I actually very much enjoyed the first 25 minutes of the movie until they arrived at Event Horizon, and from there it felt very average. The story was fine but it just seemed like I had seen the content many times before. Sam Neill and Laurence Fishburne have both done better work, but they're both actors that I like so that helped. The guy who looks like Eddie Murphy was terrible and almost single-handedly ruined the movie. I had almost watched this a few times before but ended up passing. I thought it was a decent watch overall but I wouldn't watch it again.

2.5+

[teeter_g]

Dude. I suck at this. LOL! I work too much. ;)

[cricket]

You have any chance at finishing with what you've already seen? They're mostly not very long movies.

[Citizen Rules]

http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oJ_fiIU0b1k/UoZw5Qz1z8I/AAAAAAAAPBk/nEj4qLIeS3I/s1600/Cube+%25281%2529.jpg
The Cube (1997)

Interesting movie, I liked the concept of the giant cube maze whos design is a mystery to the unfortunate people trapped there. I liked the art direction (the sets). If you think about it the cubes could have looked a million different ways, the design they went with was simple, yet effective and looked good, cost effective too. I also liked the makeup department or in this case the lack of makeup. Think about it, how often do you see actresses in a movie with no make up at all? I found the lack of make up refreshing and it made these people look like real people under stress.

I thought the script could have had more depth and detail and some of the plot developments where standard fare. I was happy to see Nicole deBoer in this, she played a very similar role two years earlier in an episode of Outer Limits 'Quality of Mercy'. She was also a cast member on Star Trek Deep Space Nine.
http://www.movieforums.com/community/attachment.php?attachmentid=23107&stc=1&d=1447691508
'Quality of Mercy' The Outer Limits (1995)

Overall the Cube was an enjoyable film to watch.

[cricket]

28 Days Later

http://cdn.moviestillsdb.com/sm/ed0c13b18522fcec51e9f4c324e7cf35/28-days-later.jpg

I had seen this a couple of times before, but not in at least five years. I must have been drunk or something because it was like I just watched a different movie. I remembered most of it, but not at all once they arrived at the compound. I have been saying for a couple years that I prefer the sequel, and while I still love 28 Weeks Later, this movie really does blow it away. I remembered the great atmosphere, but what was new for me was the excitement and tension. It also has a great musical score, and the cast does a fantastic job. I always expect to find a new favorite in these Hall of Fames. What I never expect, is for that new favorite to come from a movie I've already seen. I thought it was brilliant.

4.5



And that leaves 2 left for me; Cube for the 1st time, and a repeat viewing of The Fly.

[Thursday Next]

Glad to see you enjoyed 28 Days Later this time around :) I can remember it pretty well, but I might watch it again anyway, just for fun. The music is fantastic, isn't it?

[cricket]

The music is unbelievable

[Citizen Rules]

The music is unbelievableGlad to hear that:) I'll be watching 28 Days Later this weekend.

[Citizen Rules]

http://t4.pixhost.org/thumbs/1551/13813706_cap2.jpg
28 Days Later

This is only the second film I've seen by director Danny Boyle, the other being Sunshine (2007). I found 28 Days Later to be hit or miss with me. I hated the opening scene of the Chimpanzees in the research lab. Seeing animals suffer in a movie is a huge dislike for me, even if they're CG created. I also could have done without seeing Cillian Murphy naked, luckily my remote has a fast forward! But then when we're shown Cillian wondering around a seemingly empty London, I started really getting into the film. I was reminded at that point of a classic, The Omega Man (1971). My enthusiasm was short lived however when the zombie attack scenes were done with 'shaky camera' and 'reduced frame rate' and coupled with an ultra closeup done with a digital zoom in post production, it just about gave me a headache as it was so frantic. That 3 way effect technique is used a lot for fight sequences these days but I just don't care for it. But still I was liking the movie until they drive a taxi cab over a mountain of debris that must have been 8 feet high. When a movie breaks it's own rules of reality it loses believability, and at that point it became less serious...but still a fun, action sci fi horror flick.

[cricket]

I felt the same way about him driving over the wreckage, but it got back on point so quickly that it was gone from my mind.

[Citizen Rules]

I thought the part at the compound was an interesting twist that made the story more urgent and exciting. The twist where the females are to be used as sex slaves by the soldiers really made a strong impact and was a strong commentary on how evil humans could become in a post apocalyptic world.

I thought the part where Cillian right at the end seemed to be infected and almost gets whacked was really well done.

Oh, I remember you said you really like the soundtrack...yup it was excellent, though at fight/escape scenes it was turned up really loud. I adjusted the volume a number of time.

It kind of reminded me of The Road (2009) which I wish had been nominated it's an excellent film.

[cricket]

I loved it when the music got loud; I had it all the way up with headphones on. Haven't seen The Road yet.

Btw, tried sending you a PM bur your inbox was full.

[teeter_g]

Haven't had time to watch any of these yet. LOL! Work schedule is kicking my ass. When I am off, I am usually sleeping. ;) There are a few on the list that I have seen though so that should help. Like I said, if I don't get to watch the movies I won't vote. Gotta keep it fair.

[cricket]

Cube

http://cdn.moviestillsdb.com/sm/f52c1fa22c08137b35ba1817b0e1707a/cube.jpg

Like Event Horizon, I had almost watched this several times in the past. Having a 7.3 rating on IMDb is very respectable for a horror movie, and I was quite intrigued about it. After finally watching Cube, I can say it's high rating puzzles me, but I do understand why it has it's fans.

The movie is a bit strange for my normal taste, yet it's so unique that it kept me interested throughout it's reasonable runtime. I'm not a picky viewer who looks to point out negatives, but I often felt like I was watching a bad movie. It seemed very implausible to me, and I don't mean the general story which I take with a grain of salt. I mean the actions and reactions of the characters, especially in the beginning. I also thought much of the acting and dialogue was laughably bad, especially coming from the young brunette. Despite the negatives, I still enjoyed the movie. Having a group of people who are in trouble turn on each other is a disturbing theme that often engrosses me, and that is what kept me going to the end. I liked it, but I consider it a good bad movie more than anything else.

2.5+



I just have a rewatch of The Fly left.

[Thursday Next]

I kind of see what you mean about Cube, it's not an A list movie in terms of visual effects and acting, but in some ways it shows how a good concept beats a high budget when it comes to sci-fi.

[Citizen Rules]

I just watched The Host last night, then I came to this thread to see what people had thought of it. I read Cricket's review...and then.....I just realized I had watched the wrong movie!

I wondered why the movie I watched had no horror in it and felt like a teens Twilight Series movie. This is what I watched:

https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/_m-zvvFXNEHkI8pw2IWxSCX13p8jxjJsXTFgV6E2qhY
The Host (2013)

Rats! that was the wrong movie, but it wasn't bad. OK, so I still have three more films to go, how about you guys?

The Host (2006)
Sunshine (2007)
Pandorum (2009)

[cricket]

That's funny CR lol

[Citizen Rules]

I didn't think that seemed like a movie Sane would have nominated. How many more do you have to watch Cricket? Or are you all done?

[Thursday Next]

I'm glad I'm not the only one who has watched the wrong movie for a hall of fame!

I was a little underwhelmed by The Host. It almost had too many things going on, too many points of view. It wasn't a bad film by any means but I didn't enjoy it as much as some of the others. It was quite a sad movie, but with very deliberate attempts at humour at some points and it didn't always quite mesh for me. Or maybe I just prefer space movies to creature features.

Re-watching Alien tonight, will re-watch 28 Days Later as well if I get time, although I don't think a rewatch will affect the place of either of these two movies on my list by much.

[honeykid]

I love monster movies, but I think The Host is pretty overrated. Make it in the US and not Korea and I don't think it'd have the same rep.

[cricket]

I didn't think that seemed like a movie Sane would have nominated. How many more do you have to watch Cricket? Or are you all done?

The Fly, rewatch

[Thursday Next]

Alien (1979)

https://encrypted-tbn1.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcTVS8hQseE_PwEbo2L2uT2lyBLu93v-u7i9YdGUoL6GfVbaCbtApQ

If there’s one thing sci-fi horror has taught us it is never, ever, answer that distress signal in space. Don’t go on to that abandoned ship/planet/space station to find out what happened to the previous crew. Hint: it won’t be anything good, and it’ll probably happen to you, too. It’s easier to forgive the crew in Alien, because they were one of the first crews this happened to. Plus it’s all planned and manipulated by an evil corporation. It’s all the subsequent films where disbelief is harder to suspend. Several hundred years in the future, haven’t they seen any 20th Century sci-fi movies?

Even if it wasn’t a good film, you’d have to give Alien credit for being so influential. But it is a good film. Visually it’s really good. It’s atmospheric, creepy with plenty of sci-fi and horror. It’s aged very well and doesn’t look even slightly dated. Apart from the computers, but even these are minimal enough that they work. The characters aren’t all as developed as they could be, with the exception of Ripley and Ash, because they’re mostly only there to be killed off one by one. Which is a problem I have with a lot of horror film, really. Although I did like that they aren’t in any way experts, just ordinary people dealing with something way beyond their expertise. There are a few lulls in the film, and it’s so effectively dark and horrible that it’s not exactly fun to watch. The best parts for me are towards the end when it’s just Ripley and the alien. And the cat. Speaking of which, why is there a cat on board? Is that ever explained? Did I blink and miss it? Also why are there no bras in space?

I’m not saying where it will place on my list exactly, but it would definitely surprise me if Alien didn’t win this hall of fame.

[honeykid]

We know from George Lucas that there's no underwear in space.

[Thursday Next]

28 Days Later

https://roboheartbeat.files.wordpress.com/2012/10/28dayslater.png

I love this film. The characters, the actors (Naomie Harris particularly, the girl who plays Hannah not so much), the music (especially the music), the way it is shot, the colours, the moments of lightness. I really really like the way all the serious action at the climax of the film is juxtaposed with the country house setting. I like the ending, which (SPOILERS) is happier than you might expect, but still open-ended enough to not be too cheesy. I like the Britishness of it all. The early scenes of a deserted London are so creepy because central London is never quiet, not at any time of night. It both plays homage to earlier sci-fi - the particularly Day of the Triffids-like set-up, for example - and has a storyline which is not necessarily predictable. Even in the midst of what is effectively a zombie apocalypse, it is the revolting tendencies of other humans which prove the main enemy. The drive through the tunnel is a bit daft, yes, but the bit with the rats still terrifies me.

(I have nothing to say about the heinous sequel except that it contains none of the things which I love about the first movie.)


5

[Citizen Rules]

Does anybody know if 28 Days Latter inspired the Walking Dead tv series?

[seanc]

Does anybody know if 28 Days Latter inspired the Walking Dead tv series?

I know nothing about 28 days, but I know The Walking Dead is a graphic novel series.

[Citizen Rules]

Thanks, I've never seen The Walking Dead but I know people really love it. Even my parents love it and they never like that kind of show.

[seanc]

Thanks, I've never seen The Walking Dead but I know people really love it. Even my parents love it and they never like that kind of show.

Yeah my father in law at the time got me into it. I hate that kind of stuff but he swore this was different. It was, and I enjoyed it for two seasons. Hung on for a third and couldn't take anymore.

[cricket]

TNext, that Harris girl was spectacular in the movie.

[Citizen Rules]

@Sean, I don't have TV but one of these days I'll check out Walking Dead. Not my kind of show either, BUT, I do love a continuing story arch and I gather that's what makes Walking Dead so loved.

@Cricket & Thursday Next....ditto on Naomie Harris, I really like her. I also thought Cillian Murphy was excellent here. He's also really good in Sunshine. But I seen him in Inception and his role didn't allow him to shine.

[gbgoodies]

@Sean, I don't have TV but one of these days I'll check out Walking Dead. Not my kind of show either, BUT, I do love a continuing story arch and I gather that's what makes Walking Dead so loved.



I think I saw the "Walking Dead" DVDs available in Best Buy's Black Friday sale for something like $9.99 a season. They were available online with free shipping a few hours ago.

[seanc]

Avaliable on netflix too citizen. If you haven't seen that Breaking Bad or Mad Men might be worth $8 a month for a year. Great TV, especially the latter two.

[gbgoodies]

Avaliable on netflix too citizen. If you haven't seen that Breaking Bad or Mad Men might be worth $8 a month for a year. Great TV, especially the latter two.


Target was advertising the "Mad Men" DVDs for $8 a season today, but I haven't been to their web site so I don't know if they're still available or not.

And I think Best Buy had the "Breaking Bad" DVDs for $9.99 a season today, so you could check that out too if you're interested.

[Citizen Rules]

I don't even know what those series are? I think you've said you like Mad Men? It's a comedy? Don't laugh but right now I'm watching season 1 of the Love Boat.:D

[gbgoodies]

I don't even know what those series are? I think you've said you like Mad Men? It's a comedy? Don't laugh but right now I'm watching season 1 of the Love Boat.:D


I haven't seen "Mad Men", but my Mom loves it. (She loves all three of those shows. That's why I noticed the DVD prices today. I was looking for them for her.)

"Breaking Bad" was great, even though it's not really my type of show. I know nothing about "The Walking Dead" except I don't think it's my type of show either.

"The Love Boat" was a fun show. I loved watching for the guest stars each week on that show and "Fantasy Island".

[seanc]

I don't even know what those series are? I think you've said you like Mad Men? It's a comedy? Don't laugh but right now I'm watching season 1 of the Love Boat.:D

Breaking Bad is about a high scholl chemistry teacher who gets cancer and decides to cook meth to take care of his family financially when he dies. Mad Men is about a ficticious ad agency in the 60's. Both have the story arc that you are talking about. Both are short 12 episode seasons. Both are great.

[honeykid]

Mad Men was brilliant. Best thing on tv during its run.

[Citizen Rules]

So is Mad Men and Breaking Bad like a mini series? Say like The Tudors.

[seanc]

So is Mad Men and Breaking Bad like a mini series? Say like The Tudors.

Similar episode style to the Tudors. Mad Men was six seasons, I believe Breaking Bad seven. So I think they lasted a bit longer.

[Citizen Rules]

Thanks! That's helpful as I don't watch TV I look for shows on DVD...and I like mini series/continuing story arches type shows.

[seanc]

Thanks! That's helpful as I don't watch TV I look for shows on DVD...and I like mini series/continuing story arches type shows.

A lot of that stuff out there right now. That type of story telling on TV is becoming more and more popular. I highly recommend Fargo as well.

[honeykid]

TV is where it at for that. That's pretty much all quality drama is atm.

[Thursday Next]

@Cricket & Thursday Next....ditto on Naomie Harris, I really like her. I also thought Cillian Murphy was excellent here. He's also really good in Sunshine. But I seen him in Inception and his role didn't allow him to shine.

I really like Cillian Murphy too. I recommend the TV series Peaky Blinders, he's great in that.

[Citizen Rules]

http://www.popoptiq.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/Pandorum-1.jpg
Pandorum

I didn't care for this one, it seemed to be more of a generic horror/monster film that just happens to be set in space. The sci fi elements were weak. There was no real storyline or interesting tidbits, no 'universe building' within the movie. What we get is a real long survival flick set against numerous movie zombies.

28 Days Latter was also a survival film set against movie zombies but that film had depth and it built characters and filled in the 'what if' blanks to it's reality thus creating it's own world. Pandorum never did any of that.

I got a feeling this film was shot with saving money in mind: it was very dark lighting which equates to: no need to make expensive sets. I could hardly see the ship and what I did see made me feel like it was a movie set. Event Horizon showed us a really cool ship, that seemed believable.

I didn't care for the characters, we don't learn anything about them, there just huge blanks. If I don't care about the characters or the story then why watch. In the end I was hoping the zombies would just eat them all so the movie could end.

[Derek Vinyard]

28 Days Later is brilliant but I'm rooting for Event Horizon all the way.

[Thursday Next]

In the battle for second place, you mean?

[Derek Vinyard]

In the battle for second place, you mean?

Yeah Alien is obviously gonna win it... but it's still not my favorite movie from this HoF

[Guaporense]

TV is where it at for that. That's pretty much all quality drama is atm.

Movies are dead.

[honeykid]

I've been saying that for years. Welcome to the party. :)

[cricket]

The Fly

http://cdn.moviestillsdb.com/sm/d140dd8042ec5ab33faac696d2cf9ef4/the-fly.jpg

I first saw this at the movies when I was 15, and it became an instant favorite of mine. I saw it many other times as well, but this was my first watch in about 10 years. I'm sure nostalgia plays at least part of a role with how I feel about it now, but it didn't seem to me like it lost anything after all these years. In fact, I believe I gained some new appreciation for it. While I used to look at it as strictly a horror movie, I now look at it more as a human tragedy, making it all the more powerful.

http://cdn.moviestillsdb.com/sm/42c0842167c291689f475abf47e282e4/the-fly.jpg

Jeff Goldblum and Geena Davis are very solid actors, and they are at their best in this movie. I think the two of them were perfectly cast. Going from there, I think it's a very well rounded movie with a believable doomed love story, and some well timed dark humor. The make-up and special effects are fantastic, and the dialogue is witty and succinct. I see it as a great combination of emotion and entertainment, and it is still a personal favorite for me.

5


And I am done.

[Funny Face]

Almost done with my list. Need to watch The Hidden and Videodrome. Will try to watch this weekend.

:up: Nice write up of The Fly Cricket!

[Citizen Rules]

http://www.movieforums.com/community/attachment.php?attachmentid=23325&stc=1&d=1450120503
Sunshine

This was a rewatch for me, I had seen this film a couple years ago and had even reviewed it. It was interesting for me to revisit a film that I had strong opinions about. Usually my opinion shifts with a second viewing. When I first watched Sunshine I seemed to be more into the story, this time I wasn't, but that's not a fault of the film, just an effect of familiarity.

So what about the film?...this was a fine nomination for the Sci-Fi Horror Hof and it will place higher on my list. Sunshine could have been one of the great Sci Fi films but the horror element that comes in the third act seems tact on and detracts from the movie.

Sunshine is pure Sci Fi and so adding on some horror scenes to 'spice' up the film was unwarranted. Had that part been left out, this would have been a truly great film as there was still enough Sci Fi excitement to work. I wish the director had cared more about his art than box office sales.

This is a link to my original review of Sunshine, it's short and to the point. I hope you guys will read it.

http://www.movieforums.com/community/showthread.php?anchor=1&p=1218134#post1218134

[Captain Steel]

Agreed. Sunshine had me in sci-fi heaven up until the third act. The funny thing is, at one time, I only saw the beginning of the movie (and had to go to work or something) and I remember thinking I HAD to see the rest because the beginning was so awesome. Without seeing the second half I also couldn't understand why I'd never heard more about this apparently spectacular sci-fi movie - that was answered after viewing the end.

I'd prefer a movie that's kind of lame throughout, but pulls itself together by the end, rather than one that's fantastic, but then falls apart at the climax.

[Citizen Rules]

I can only think that the horror third act was added to sell more tickets. I mean it seems so counter intuitive, as the rest of the film was dealing with more existential ideas, you know the whole staring into the sun part, which I liked. The sunshine mystery gave the film a 2001 grand-mystery-scheme of things, feel. It could have been a classic.

[Captain Steel]

On IMDB, I made these (silly) observations...
Anyone catch that the guy who played the Human Torch ultimately ends up thwarted by being submerged in liquid and frozen? (Two classic ways to stop the Torch.)

Before that, his hand gets frostbite (from the cold of space)... the same hand he was making finger-snap flames with in another movie!

Not enough coincidence for ya? How about this... the same guy, who also played Captain America, gets frozen and surrounded by ice... Captain America got frozen in ice, which put him into suspended animation, which was the story device that allowed him to show up in modern times.

[Citizen Rules]

http://asiabeam.com/v/var/resizes/movies/The%20Host/shots/Gwoemul%20screenshot%2002.png
The Host (2006)

I liked this one. It wasn't what I expected...I expected a 2 hour long movie with people being bit in half by a giant creature. Instead it had a lighter touch and focused more on a slightly dysfunctional but likable Korean family. The film makers could have left the creature out of the film and I would have still liked the characters and the way the family interacted. It was nice seeing scenes inside Korea too.

http://mmbiz.qpic.cn/mmbiz/jHjNdd1XGTNMXSo2pZiaZA16P8vSYrNNRiczzn8XNYKOZfO3FO70IkW9cyrziaia2NLOFAm99ncQQoG1M8o9pds2LQ/0?/1.jpg

The creature itself was pretty cool looking...it's a mutation from the Han River, created by dumping of illegal chemicals into the river. I liked the way it moved on land, it couldn't walk well and would occasionally fall on it's belly. Nicely done CG.

The film itself had a very high quality look to it. Very cinematic with rich colors and lots of rain. You can tell it was well made. I watched the English dubbed version, which matched up pretty well. Though I would have liked the English voice actors to have a Korean accent.

It took me awhile to realize the film makers intended this to have light comic situations. What made that light comedy work is that it came out of the way people naturally react.

http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Y0jgYWsK4Ls/UB1Hy7gAReI/AAAAAAAAEq4/zZj3Hn6FXRQ/s1600/The+Host+%5B2006%5D%5B11-32-20%5D.JPG

A great choice for the Sci Fi/Horror Hof. And now I'm done watching the movies and have sent in my voting list.

Thanks for all the fun movies guys:) I enjoyed watching them all!

[Citizen Rules]

How's everybody else doing with the films?

[AboveTheClouds]

I feel like this should have been two seperate HOF's, but I was too late to even participate.

[Citizen Rules]

Hi Clouds, two separate Hofs? In what way?

[AboveTheClouds]

I believe there are so many great titles in both genre's that to lump them together is unfair to both. I'm not trying to stir the pot or anything, I am aware that at times the genre's can blur lines, but a sci-fi film in the defined sense and a pure horror film are pretty clear cut. Personally I think we could have split this into two and would have had two complete definitive lists instead of one that doesn't (imo) do the best job of representing either genre. I just kind of feel like a whole spectrum of a genre should be represented in an HOF, and this doesn't really allow for it. But again, this is just what I think is needed for a true definitive list.

[Citizen Rules]

That's cool:) I love sci fi, so I hope someday there will be another sci fi hof. I ran one some months ago and we got some great sci fi films too.

[AboveTheClouds]

I checked that out actually, The Thing deserved it, but Escape from New York or Brazil Would have been good choices too.

[Citizen Rules]

The Thing and Brazil are both awesome films in their own different ways. You joined the B budget Hof? I think I seen your name there. That one should be fun, I can think of many great B budget sci fi films, I hope a few get nominated.

[AboveTheClouds]

I did join that HoF, got my nomination in and everything, don't know how everyone's gonna feel about it, but we'll see. I think I picked a classic.

[Citizen Rules]

Cool, I'll be interested in seeing what your film is.

[teeter_g]

The deadline was yesterday people! LOL! I didn't watch them so I am not going to vote. I just didn't have time. I still need six more ballots!!! Everyone EXCEPT for: Guapo, Citizen and Thursday. They have sent their rankings already.

[cricket]

Sent mine

[teeter_g]

So I have waited a week and have only gotten in 5 votes total. Come on people! I am going to wait until next Monday, January 4 and then I am going to tally the votes that we DO have and announce a winner if there isn't a tie. I don't know what else to do. If someone has a better idea please, shoot it at me because I don't know. This is my first one of these, and probably my last, and I don't know the usual way that they are done.

[Thursday Next]

I think the usual way is just to harass people with PMs and posts until they turn in a list, and if they don't just tally up what you have got :)

[Citizen Rules]

I think the usual way is just to harass people with PMs and posts until they turn in a list, and if they don't just tally up what you have got :) That's just what I was going to say. PM them Teeter and tell them how important it is that they finish the films, maybe give them one more week if they really need it.

[TheUsualSuspect]

coming....

[teeter_g]

Three more ballots are needed! Slob, Destiny and Sane. Get those in please!!!!

[cricket]

You have to get on Slob, but Sane and Destiny haven't posted in a month.

[seanc]

Yeah where did Sane disappear to?

[cricket]

He voted in the song tournament finale and then vanished.

[Citizen Rules]

From his profile page...Sane: Last Activity: 2 Weeks Ago

Teeter,. it's highly unlikely that Slob, Destiny and Sane, will be sending in ballets and they've had more than enough time to do so.

Every Hof has had a few people who didn't finish. Slob joined my Sci Fi Hof and never finished either. If every one else sent in their votes, then that's a pretty good response!

So how about tallying the scores and announcing the results? Please:)

[teeter_g]

LOL! I suppose I can do that. Gimme a minute.

NO MORE BALLOTS WILL BE ACCEPTED! CALCULATIONS ARE BEGINNING FOR THE WINNER

[teeter_g]

In last place with 230 points: PANDORUM
240 points: THE HOST
340 points: THE CUBE
350 points: THE HIDDEN
360 points: EVENT HORIZON
400 points: 28 DAYS LATER
470 points: VIDEODROME
480 points: THE FLY
500 points: INVASION OF THE BODY SNATCHERS
510 points: SUNSHINE
AND THE WINNER; BY A VERY LARGE MARGIN I MIGHT ADD

With 710 points: ALIEN

http://buyoldmovieposters.com/alien-movie-poster.jpg
http://www.avpgalaxy.net/images/films/avp1/deleted/avpdeleted15.jpg
http://moviesmedia.ign.com/movies/image/article/825/825540/the-100-greatest-gore-moments-in-movie-history-day-ten-20071031034611789-000.jpg

[cricket]

Just out of curiosity, how many ballots did you get, and what was your points system?

[Swan]

:up:

[cricket]

Anyway, this is how I voted-

1. The Fly
2. 28 Days Later
3. The Hidden
4. Alien
5. Videodrome
6. The Host
7. Invasion of the Body Snatchers
8. Sunshine
9. Cube
10. Event Horizon
11. Pandorum

[Citizen Rules]

Here's mine:
1 Invasion of the Body Snatchers
2 The Fly
3 Alien
4 Sunshine
5 Videodrome
6 The Hidden
7 Cube
8 The Host
9 28 Days Later
10 Event Horizon
11 Pandorum

It's interesting Cricket, that neither of us voted our own film #1.

We both had The Fly high on our list. I almost placed it at #1, that was a hard decision as I love The Fly.

And we both had Event Horizon at #10 and Pandorum last. I did not like Pandorum.

[Swan]

Glad you both have Event Horizon so low. Movie is overrated af on here.

[Thursday Next]

My list:

28 Days Later
Alien
Sunshine
Cube
Invasion of the Body Snatchers
Pandorum
The Hidden
Event Horizon
The Fly
Videodrome
The Host

[Citizen Rules]

Glad you both have Event Horizon so low. Movie is overrated af on here.
The space ship with the rotating tunnel and sphere engine drive was cool! A lot of sci fi films have copied that look. But yeah, I wasn't a big fan of that film.


Lets see some more of the voting list!:)

[teeter_g]

7 ballots total. 1st movie getting 110 points moving down 10 points a piece until you get to last. Last got 10 points.

[cricket]

That doesn't make sense

[cricket]

Well actually, if the 4 members who haven't posted their lists had Alien at #1, it would get that many points.

[teeter_g]

1- 4th place (80)
1- 2nd place (100)
1- 3rd place (90)
4- 1st place (110x4)
-----------------------
(710)

[Ðèstîñy]

Sorry about that! If I had made it in, my list would have been something close to this, with the first four being a for sure on the way they are listed.

Invasion of the Body Snatchers
The Fly
The Hidden
Alien
Videodrome
28 Days Later
Event Horizon
The Host
Sunshine
Pandorum
Cube