Plot: What’s it about?
When Commander Ross (Justin Lazard) and his crew experience an unexplained loss of time, no one thinks much of it since the team members are alive and well when they return from their voyage to Mars. But something has happened as Ross has been infected by an alien being who is slowly taking over his human form. After some time Ross begins to mate with human women who become pregnant minutes after copulation and dead after they give birth. If something is done and Ross’ brutal secret uncovered the entire population is in grave danger. Meanwhile in a testing facility Laura Baker (Marg Helgenberger) works with her subject, a clone of the vicious Sil, named Eve. When Eve begins to have strange outbursts it is slowly learned that she is connecting with someone out there who is like her, but they don’t know who just yet. So as Ross continues his spree Eve sees it all and soon the scientists use that their advantage. But when Ross kidnaps Eve and plans to mate to create the perfect being to wipe out mankind, it looks like not even science can save the day…
This movie elicits some bad reviews and comments from almost everyone I talk to, but in the end I never understand why. I suppose if you expected something other than a science fiction popcorn movie then you would disappointed, but why would you assume Species II of all movies would be a classic? No matter what anyone else says if you’re a fan of special effects and creature creations with a strange storyline, then this is a movie you should at least rent. While some of the special effects can be a little fake at times, most of them look good and are very effective. I like the head explosion scene even though it looks fake, just because it looks so cool. I love the creature and gore effects used in this movie also, especially the pregnancy scene…wow! There is also some flashes of flesh so most of the bases seem to be covered I think. This release contains some extended and unrated (ooooooohhhh…) footage cut the movie as well, which contains “explicit” footage not seen in the theatrical cut. I like this movie and the original so I will recommend both to those who like science fiction/horror movies, just don’t expect a masterpiece and you should be pleased.
Peter Medak is the director of this film and though many criticize the movie, I think Medak delivered a solid and fresh science fiction flick. I think this movie is more of a campish and popcorn film than the original and maybe that’s why so many people disliked it. I guess some folks expected Citizen Kane and were mad when they didn’t get it, but I went in expecting a good time and went home happy. Medak puts his own touches on the formula of the original and I think it turned out very well. It has some stumbling blocks at times but you don’t expect perfection from any movie, let alone a science fiction/horror flick like this. Medak also directed such films as The Changeling, Pontiac Moon, The Men’s Club, Romeo Is Bleeding, and he also directed many television shows. The lovely Natasha Henstridge returns and looks better than ever, if you ask me. Natasha seems more reserved in this installment and she plays her role very well. Also returning from the original are Michael Madsen (Donnie Brasco) and Marg Helgenberger (Erin Brockovich), both of whom turn in solid performances. The supporting cast also includes Justin Lazard (Universal Soldier: The Return), James Cromwell (Babe, Snow Falling On Cedars), and Mykelti Williamson (Forrest Gump, Con Air).
Video: How does it look?
Species II is shown here in an anamorphic widescreen transfer, which is framed at the original 1.85:1 aspect ratio. This is a colorful movie and this transfer looks bright and bold with no problems I could see, even flesh tones look sharp and natural. The contrast holds up well also with deep shadows and good detail level. I saw some grain from time to time, but no other errors emerged.
Audio: How does it sound?
In the tradition of the original Species disc, this one sounds excellent also with a Dolby Digital 5.1 soundtrack included. When the action picks up or Eve has the communication device on, your speakers will come to life and shake the windows. The mix isn’t always geared for power though and even the personal scenes come across in an effective manner. The music sounds full and textured here and the dialogue is crisp and clear at all times.
Supplements: What are the extras?
This release contains four deleted scenes, which are mostly extended and more revealing versions of the sex scenes. Even so I am glad to see the additional materials included here. You’ll also find some production notes in the liner booklet and the film’s theatrical trailer on the disc. The final supplement is an audio commentary by director Peter Medak, who sheds some light on the production of the film.
