Plot: What’s it about?
Through some unusual circumstances, scientists are able to detail the alien DNA patterns and meld them into the patterns of a human. As the test subject grows and matures it is watched under the careful eye of the creators, as well as held under strict and cutting edge security devices. It is not known to what extent the subject, named Sil is gifted or changed but the fear of danger keeps her under lock and key. One aspect of her change is well documented though as Sil can change form and what a difference it is. In her human form Sil is a blonde female with breathtaking good looks, but when he transforms she is an armored and lethal killing machine. Despite her power and armored exterior she is never able to escape…until now. Sil manages to break loose from her holding area and heads right for the streets with one thing on her mind, sex. As he goes on a mating rampage a team is assembled to stop her before she is able to give birth. With time running out and Sil looking for love, can this rogue team fend her off and ensure the safety of mankind?
This movie serves me well on two fronts to truthful, I love science fiction and I love aliens. The two often merge often, but usually the results are cheese or nice guy aliens. The alien in this movie is an ass kicking female and that makes it twice as cool, if you ask me. Come on now, how many of you don’t want to see a half naked Natasha Henstridge stalking clueless victims? This might seem like the core of a bad movie, but this one has a nice storyline and a tremendous supporting cast to make it turns out well. As if all that isn’t enough this movie is loaded with effective special effects and awesome blood and guts death sequences, which I happen to love. Call me barbaric if you will, but I know what I like. I’m sure I could nitpick and find some stuff that sucks or is too fake or whatever, but why waste my time? I mean if you don’t like this type of movie why would you read this review, ya know? Anyway, this disc isn’t much other than the movie so maybe a rental would be best for some, although I know I would want to own this one. This isn’t rocket science but it does make for a fun and thrilling ride.
Roger Donaldson directed this movie and I feel he has done a solid turn behind the camera here. With a movie like this atmosphere is vital to the film’s effectiveness and Donaldson always places the camera in the right spots. I also love the production design for this film, which I am sure he also had somewhat of a hand in. This might be a science fiction movie but Donaldson managed to pull some excellent performances from his actors, which gives the film a more realistic edge. While many will remember the special effects or creature creations after they’ve seen this movie, I know I will remember some of the fantastic shots used. Donaldson also directed such movies as The Getaway, Cocktail, White Sands, Cadillac Man, and Dante’s Peak. Without an effective female lead to play the role of Sil this movie would have blown, but Natasha Henstridge (Caracara, The Whole Nine Yards) seems to fit the part perfectly. Her stunning good looks combine with her solid acting skills to make this character seem very real and dangerous. The impressive supporting cast includes Michael Madsen (Supreme Sanction, Species II), Alfred Molina (The Impostors, Magnolia), Forest Whitaker (Ready To Wear, Battlefield Earth), and Ben Kingsley (Dave, Rules Of Engagement).
Video: How does it look?
Species is shown here in an anamorphic widescreen transfer, which is framed at the original 2.35:1 aspect ratio. I’ve seen this movie on laserdisc and several VHS releases and I am happy to report that this is the best this film has ever looked. The vibrant colors look great and never bleed together and flesh tones (especially Natasha’s) look glowing and natural. I didn’t see any problems with the contrast since no overly dark regions were visible and blooming was absent. This is an older release but it still holds up well after all this time.
Audio: How does it sound?
This is an action driven science fiction movie so of course the sound is explosive, but the included Dolby Digital 5.1 mix takes it to a whole new level. I was blown away by the audio during some of the more intense scenes, but even the subdued ones are loaded with dynamic presence. The speakers fire on all cylinders when they need to, so rest assured you’ll feel right in the midst of the chaotic action. This movie has a fitting and effective soundtrack as well and this mix offers it in a rich and flowing manner that I enjoyed. You need to hear the dialogue too though and this mix never overshadows the vocals, even in the loudest of sequences.
Supplements: What are the extras?
All you get is the theatrical trailer and some production notes. Bah!
