Behind-The-Scenes Photos From Aliens That Are Mostly Not Terrifying... Mostly

John Summers • Contributor

Nov 10, 2024 11:00 PM EST

Aliens isn't just any sequel—it's one of the greatest sequels ever made to one of the best horror movies ever made. When James Cameron took the reins from Ridley Scott, he didn't just try to recreate the magic of Alien; he took it in a bold new direction, transforming it from a claustrophobic horror into a high-stakes, action-packed thrill ride. And yet, somehow, Cameron managed to stay completely loyal to the terrifying, atmospheric tension of the original.

This list of behind-the-scenes photos dives into the making of Aliens, showcasing how Cameron and his crew brought to life an alien-infested world on a scale we'd never seen before. From Sigourney Weaver's transformation into a full-on action hero to the mind-bending creature effects that made us all terrified of facehuggers and Xenomorphs, these snapshots reveal the genius and grit that turned Aliens into an unforgettable sci-fi legend.