Alien (1979) was so terrifying I ALMOST PASSED OUT *First Time Watching* Movie Reaction & Commentary

[@CasualNerdReactions]

This movie was amazing! A true sci-fi classic that was a joy to watch... except for all the fear, anger and anxiety it evoked. What are your favorite moments from Alien? Just starting a discord, let's connect! discord.gg/rhdPqtM3Gv Full length reaction available on Patreon: www.patreon.com/casualnerdreactions

[@lara314]

"How long before the ship blows?" "Ten minutes." "No bullshit?" "We ain't out of here in ten minutes, we won't need no rocket to fly through space." 😂

[@charrid56maclean]

When Parker kills ash

[@Otokichi786]

In the computer room, Ripley slams Ash into the wall, and he doesn't react. That was my "WTF? He's NOT Human!?" moment.

[@CasualNerdReactions]

@@Otokichi786 Yes! I wish I'd have caught on then, but it was really the last moment.

[@jimtatro6550]

I think the tag line on the original poster is one of the best ever. “ In Space No One Can Hear You Scream.” Brilliant.👍

[@gordondavis6168]

You know that you work for an evil company when your crew is 7, but the ship’s shuttle lifeboat only takes 3 people.

[@CasualNerdReactions]

Oh man, you're so right Gordon! I didn't even think about that.

[@danielmorency2242]

I think there must be multiple "individual" escape pods. The small shuttle could be like the cap'tain's yacht on the Enterprise.

[@theradgegadgie6352]

@@danielmorency2242 No, just the one.

[@jongwyn6433]

@@theradgegadgie6352 theres actually 2 shuttlecrafts according to the blueprints, but one was damaged. Still, thats only 6 spaces.

[@theradgegadgie6352]

@@jongwyn6433 Only one available, then. And still only two, really, considering packing three into one shuttle would be overcrowding and dangerous. They're only equipped for one.

[@porflepopnecker4376]

Keep in mind that when I first saw this movie in a packed theater back in 1979, nobody knew who Sigourney Weaver was. She was just an unknown cast member among a group of already familiar faces. So we had no idea Ripley would be the only survivor, or that anyone at all would indeed survive. Seeing this movie on a big screen in an old-fashioned theater, surrounded by other excited people who had no idea what they were in for, was one of the most thrilling movie-going experiences of my life. Note: The actress playing Lambert (Veronica Cartwright) was Mitch's little sister Cathy in THE BIRDS. She also played Jeff Goldblum's wife in INVASION OF THE BODY SNATCHERS. When I bought my first VCR in 1981, ALIEN was the first thing I ever recorded on it (from HBO). Back then, it was still a thrill to actually own an entire movie and get to watch it anytime I wanted to.

[@CasualNerdReactions]

I WISH I could have that kind of movie going experience today. We know far to much about films going into them and I hate that. Great information. I’m not familiar with Veronica Cartwright, but i was so impressed with her performance.

[@porflepopnecker4376]

@@CasualNerdReactions One really good thing about it was that the TV spots and trailers for ALIEN gave away absolutely nothing about the plot or characters. All we knew going in was that "in space, no one can hear you scream."

[@CasualNerdReactions]

@@porflepopnecker4376 I wish more movies today took that minimal approach to marketing.

[@michaelsegriff3362]

@@porflepopnecker4376 I remember seeing the posters in the NYC subway in 1979, and was intrigued. The theater experience with the jump scares, sound, and lighting effects made the film incredibly immersive to my young self. 😂

[@Rastayeti666]

i was 11 when i saw alien in a cinema. My dad accidently thought it would be something like star wars and took me with him. i never was so scared again in my whole life. Damn it was an intence experience, its till today my most love movie.

[@jessesisson2955]

"It's never safe to assume it's not a zombie." I want that T-shirt.

[@CasualNerdReactions]

🙌👏 That's a great idea!

[@Pntngbrn]

Ok so in 1979 I walked to my movie theater to see this, I lived in a smaller city toward the back of an apt complex. My complex was surround by a 6 foot brick wall that ran for a city block down a tree lined street. On top of the wall was a wrought iron fence and the ground elevation inside was higher than the street. I didn't think about the fact that it would be dark outside when the movie let out, but it was still early and alot of people were about. I had started walking faster because I kept hearing something on the other side of the fence. As I got toward the entrance this guy jogging with his German Shepard comes running out and past me. I peed myself. Thanks Ridley Scott

[@CasualNerdReactions]

🤣 thank you so much for sharing this story. I’m also grateful that I did not have this experience myself. That would be terrifying.

[@kinagrill]

I had a similar experience with Alien vs. Predator. - I was around 15 or so when it came out iirc. And it was evening by the time the movie was over with and I was fucking terrorfied. I had wanted to leave the theater earlier, by my dad that was there with me convinced me to stay for the whole movie :s I wasn't alone on the way home of course, but I was still feeling like I was about to pass out from feeling spooked even outside. And yes I did not sleep with the light off that night.

[@SwampCityRadio1974]

@@CasualNerdReactions I had the misfortune of watching Event Horizon in an empty movie theatre. That was a bit horrifying.

[@khelatar]

The impact was even more powerful when you watched it on the big screen in a theater. There were people who were scared to leave the building and walk out into the evening darkness afterwards.

[@CasualNerdReactions]

I can only imagine.

[@williamjackson6705]

Imagine this 42 years ago . Nobody had seen anything like it . I worked in a small theatre & every time the chest- burster scene was shown the entire auditorium burst into screams . Male & Female . The creatures were designed by H.R. Geiger , an artist you should really check-out. The ships & interiors were designed by underground cartoonist Ron Cobb. The studio was sued by Sci-Fi author A.E. Van Vogt because of the similarity to his story " Voyage Of The Space Beagle ". The Studio settled out of court.

[@CasualNerdReactions]

Such great info! Crazy that they were sued. I can’t imagine it was that strong of a case, but always better to settle out of court.

[@OffRampTourist]

I thought they had a pretty good case. The shape of the alien was different but the problem was the same. Both were great.

[@nathanfitzgerald6651]

I first saw Alien at age 8, circa 1980 or 81 at my aunt's house because she got HBO at the time (and Alien was my aunt's favorite movie) and she let me watch it with her. So you can probably imagine how bogeyman-scary Alien was to a little boy at the time. Needless to say, that movie gave me utter nightmares when I was a young child. But I still don't regret seeing it as a child because it's a bona-fide masterpiece.

[@jasontoddman7265]

@@CasualNerdReactions If you ever read the book in the future, you'll see they had a fairly good case. They even had to drop parts of the movie (involving cocooning the captain and laying eggs in him) in fact because of its strong resemblance to both the "Black Destroyer" and the "Discord in Scarlet" portions of the book for different reasons.

[@wkanost]

The beauty of this film is how “tight” the script was. No subplots running simultaneous to the main story. Everything that happens on screen is instrumental in propelling the story forward to the inexorable conclusion. No wasted dialogue or melodrama. Just straight forward horror without explanation. It dispenses with the usual expository scenes with scientific explanations of what they are looking at, what the alien is or what it wants. None of the usual conventions. It is a masterclass in understated story telling giving you just enough to let you know what you need to know. Brilliant.

[@CasualNerdReactions]

You nailed it! We didn't need any subplots with this, it was masterfully done.

[@richardhodgson6711]

This movie is 42 years old, and it's pretty much as close to perfect as you can get. The sequel, Aliens, is very good, certainly among the best action movies ever made, but for me it doesn't quite match this movie overall.

[@CasualNerdReactions]

I think the thing that interests me the most is the shift in genre. I’m excited to see it. I completely agree, this film is pretty close to perfect. I had no idea.

[@mikerodgers7620]

Why? The aliens were just as terrifying.

[@happyapple4269]

I thought aliens was better but this was great.

[@HistoritorJimaldus]

I like Aliens even more than Alien :)

[@Dragon-Believer]

@@CasualNerdReactions people forget that the characters don't know they're in a horror movie. The first guy wanted to get rich by discovering a new alien species. How many people on earth right now want to find aliens?

[@ChrystusBrzeczyszczykiewicz]

3:32 "the visuals feel outdated but also breathtaking" that's a great description of this movie, the retro scifi aesthetic by itself always carries me away. Great reaction man, get ready for Aliens.

[@CasualNerdReactions]

Thanks so much! I'm really looking forward to Aliens.

[@michaelwinkle4480]

In the extras to ALIEN, one of the production people [I don't think Ridley Scott himself, but it's been a while] said they wanted the Nostromo to look old, beat-up and out of date, with the "truckers in space" motif. The computers and 3-D animation they used were out of date IN 1979!

[@ThreadBomb]

For the 2014 video game Alien Isolation, they chose to keep the retro future tech, and it turned out to be everyone's favorite part of the game.

[@GenXCellent1970]

I love watching reaction videos since it gives me the ability to see movies I’ve seen a hundred times through new fresh eyes. It’s hard to find charming and interesting reactors though but I have to say your a keeper. So many just scream at the proper points and it’s obvious some have watched the movies previously so they know when to give their most energetic reaction, but you are so authentic with your viewing it does feel very natural. Noticing things like the cinematography and score is really nice as well, it takes a lot of creative people to make a classic. Keep up the good work!!

[@CasualNerdReactions]

Thank You! Your comment encapsulates exactly what I'm trying to accomplish with my videos. I want to recreate the feeling of watching a great movie for the first time. I'm working with each upload to better to find that balance between my random thoughts, quirky personality and the film itself. I'm glad you enjoyed this one!

[@rafaelrosario5331]

Wow and he used the word encapsulates in his reply....well done!...lol

[@jenniferyorgan4215]

@@CasualNerdReactions you do a great job. I enjoy your reaction channel the most. Absolutely no complaints

[@alfreddreamerphotocomics4880]

You might also like Nox So Subtle’s reaction to Alien and Aliens. She’s real fun to watch react too.

[@monacaravetta]

Lambert's death scream heard through the ship's system still fills me with horror and sadness after all these years.

[@Sannspoof]

You're a great reactor. Very articulate, actually paying attention, and a clear personality. I hope this video blows up!

[@CasualNerdReactions]

Thank you so much for this comment! Definitely what i’m going for. Paying attention and capturing the first time experience, without losing my personality is something I really worked hard on with this video! Really appreciate the encouragement.

[@faz0482]

Incredible how a 42 year old movie is still able to shock nowadays generations. Accustomed to all the gore and blood in horror movies of these present days, the birth scene should be fresh water, but it gets every single reactor I saw, even younger than you. Imagine seeing something like this for the first time in the theaters back in '79.

[@toodlescae]

This was Sigourney Weaver's first major role. The actress playing Lambert, Veronica Cartwright, was originally supposed to play Ripley but Ridley Scott made a late casting decision and put Sigourney in that role instead. Once you're done with scary movies I would like to suggest a masterpiece of acting and cinematography. 12 Angry Men (1957) is one of the best films ever made. It has been shown in film classes and law classes world wide for decades.

[@CasualNerdReactions]

I'm so glad you suggested 12 angry men! I actually added that one to the list myself because I really think I'd like it. Good call on Ridley Scott by making that change, they were both amazing in this film.

[@egoranonymous3223]

The on board computer graphics were supposed to look dated. The idea was that any crew member could do any job and that the ship was an older outdated model. Remember, they were in space for years at a time.

[@CasualNerdReactions]

That makes sense! I love the idea that any crew member could do any job. Really pretty needed when going into space for ANY REASON.

[@parallaxnick637]

Ron Cobb, the set designer/worldbuilder, came up with the idea of the alien having acid for blood, because screenwriter Dan O'Bannon couldn't come up with a reason the characters didn't just shoot the thing.

[@CasualNerdReactions]

Oh wow! That’s an incredibly creative solution to solve a problem that I’m sure other horror movies have in spades.

[@cindiloohoo]

I saw this movie on its theatrical release and re-watched it almost endless times when it became available on cable TV. One of the things that I think a lot of people miss on first watch is that the Nostromo isn't an exploratory ship or a warship, as is usually the case in sci-fi movies, but basically a slow, creaky, rusty barge. That's why the kind of "dirty, lived in" interior ship design works so well and why the crew seem to be such everyday working class folks.

[@CasualNerdReactions]

That is definitely part of what made it so fascinating, this was a towing vessel or mining vessel and suddenly they're responding to a distress signal that goes really really wrong. Definitely added to the feel of it. I loved how the mechanics weren't interested in responding until they found out they would forfeit their contract.

[@tenchraven]

Without a doubt, one of the strongest reactions to this movie I've ever seen. And I've been with people their first time and even had someone say "I peed myself" at the chest burster. Had several say they couldn't watch any more. But never seen someone almost pass out.

[@CasualNerdReactions]

Oh boy 😳 after some reflection I am pretty sure I just wasn’t breathing during intense moments.

[@celinhabr1]

Alien only gets better every time one watches it. It's great.

[@CasualNerdReactions]

I TOTALLY believe that with this one. I can’t WAIT to rewatch it. 😆

[@hak4890]

I completely agree. I love it so much that I became emotionally attached to the characters! 👍

[@hak4890]

@@CasualNerdReactions watch the Director’s Cut. Trust me.😉👍

[@lara314]

Yes! My all-time fave sci-fi film. Love how it still holds up after 40+ years.

[@CasualNerdReactions]

Lara, YES!! It really really does. I'm loving these 70s & 80s movies so far. Wish I'd seen them sooner.

[@markdodson6453]

Yet another movie that I was lucky enough to see opening night in 70mm, when I was 15 years old. Just like with Close Encounters, at the gone-but-not-forgotten Medallion Theater in Dallas. What stands out to me the most was how we knew NOTHING about what to expect. For months we had seen the posters and billboards of that now iconic poster -- which told you nothing -- and for months we were like "What in God's name IS that?!" And what a joy to find out on opening night.

[@CasualNerdReactions]

That's amazing! I love going into movies knowing nothing about it! That must have been a very unique experience. The poster is iconic and if that's all you have to go on then whoo boy!

[@energeez]

reminds me of the matrix for my gen

[@ompatel8988]

The fact that there is just a random cat on the spaceship is hilarious.

[@CasualNerdReactions]

SERIOUSLY THOUGH! Did they just plop it in there and never explain why it’s there and who owns it?! 🤣

[@treadstone1138]

Not a random cat. It's the ship's cat. You can even see him eating out of his food dish in the opening breakfast scene.

[@melenatorr]

@@treadstone1138 Yes, Ripley is stroking him; and you also see him on the ship doing a quick little self-grooming. I'm surprised at you, Casual Nerd: didn't you realize that Jones is *the* most important inhabitant on the ship....?

[@CasualNerdReactions]

@@treadstone1138 It's worth rewatching this just to make sure I get the whole story of Jones the Cat!

[@CasualNerdReactions]

@@melenatorr Now I know and am more grateful Jones survived than Ripley.

[@christopherthr]

“Also that thing is doing a great job of creating fear by being TERRIFYING!” LMAOOOOOO. Best reaction I’ve ever seen to this movie; great combination of insightful comments and being genuinely caught out by the scares. Thank you so much for the video!

[@CasualNerdReactions]

haha thanks so much! This is one of my favs just because I was caught so off guard by what I experienced. Glad you enjoyed it.

[@danielwilson8604]

the alien was not an actor, just an especially tall guy who happened to live in the area that they met in a pub. his identity was a mystery for years and eventually revealed to be "Bolaji Badejo"

[@karlmoles6530]

Also the Xenomorph is terrifying. I am a 6 foot tall man and former Baseball Player and I would have blubbered and sobbed in relief after killing it if that'd been me.

[@jazzx251]

The guy that played the alien was 7 feet tall with extremely long arms, he was discovered at an English pub ... unfortunately, he died in his 30s. Sheer luck - but MUCH better than CGI if you can find somebody like that.

[@thiscorrosion900]

That's if you can find a way to kill it on a cramped space ship.

[@turbulentlobster]

I was in 7th grade when this came out. A number of my friends saw it, but my mom wouldn’t let me. Saw it in college and loved it, but looking back, I’d say mom made the right call at the time.

[@CasualNerdReactions]

It's so frustrating when your parents won't let you watch something and all your friends are watching it!! Still, I agree. I wouldn't let my middle schooler watch this one. Glad you can look back and see her perspective.

[@raputathebuta]

I was 9 when it came out & my mom took me to a matinee showing. LOLs! It's one of my all-time favorite movies.

[@BrianKapellusch]

The quality of your commentary during reactions are deserving of far more subscribers than you have. You're funny, clever, and have no hesitation with your comments and I appreciate it.

[@CasualNerdReactions]

Thanks so much!

[@keithbrown8490]

"The music is telling me" That's the gift of a movie scored by Jerry Goldsmith ! Wish he was still alive making music for movies today.

[@CasualNerdReactions]

That music was such a relief! He really was did an incredible job. I'll have to look up more movies he's scored.

[@keithbrown8490]

@@CasualNerdReactions Just in keeping with Halloween Season he won the Oscar for his score for "The Omen" but his skills go to all genres !

[@nathanfitzgerald6651]

@@CasualNerdReactions Some of Mr. Goldsmith's best scores include Star Trek: The Motion Picture, The Mummy (1999), The Secret of Nimh, Hollow Man, Poltergeist, Twilight Zone: The Movie, Basic Instinct, Total Recall....man, so many to choose from. It's tragic that he died of cancer about 15 years ago.

[@rockytopbritt]

@@nathanfitzgerald6651 Also, First Blood, The Edge, The Ghost and the Darkness and Gremlins. The man was a master of his craft.

[@mjducharme]

The end credits music (the music being referred to here) is a Howard Hanson symphony - not written by Goldsmith. Ridley Scott didn't really communicate very much with Goldsmith about what he wanted and a fair amount of the music written for the film wound up getting replaced as a result.

[@jimtatro6550]

I was 12 years old when this came out and I was obsessed with sci/fi due to Star Wars and Close Encounters of the Third Kind so I begged my parents to take me to this. I was not prepared for what I saw. It’s still one of my favorite movies ever. Aliens is just as good if not better.👍

[@CasualNerdReactions]

Oh wow, definitely a different film from those two, which are fantastic. All three are so good in different ways! I can't wait to watch Aliens!!

[@DailyDamage]

I’m surprised u were able to watch this as this was very much X rated, I.e. 18 and older only

[@jimtatro6550]

@@DailyDamage In the US it was released rated R , no one under 17 without a parent or guardian, hence I saw it with my parents.

[@MapManLK]

Imagine seeing this -- like I did in 1979 when I was 29 -- the day after it opened in ONE huge theater in Denver with 900 other people. Never heard so many LOUD screams in my life.

[@CasualNerdReactions]

I wish I could experience that. Completely amazing (and terrifying)

[@mrfomo217]

Oh. A new reactor. And a great reaction it was. Not easy managing "audience banter" while still being focused on the movie. Keep up the good work.

[@CasualNerdReactions]

Thank you so much! I am trying to get better at that balance with every upload.

[@lordwalker71]

None of the actors except for John hurt knew that the baby alien was going to burst through his chest because the director wanted their reactions to he genuine, the other actress apparently fainted when it happened.

[@voodoochile333]

No she didn't

[@CasualNerdReactions]

I’d love to find out if it really happened, but I LOVE when actors are surprised by something that happens. That’s my favorite thing filmmakers occasionally do.

[@CasualNerdReactions]

@Stu 😳

[@treadstone1138]

Well they did know cuz they all read the script. LOL. But as to HOW it was gonna be done.... yeah.

[@derrisreaditbefore]

@@treadstone1138 There's a lot of behind the scenes information that suggests they truly didn't. The script was apparently very vague on what was going to happen, and the cast became even more nervous on the day of shooting because the crew and equipment all had plastic drapes on. Which gives verisimilitude to the tension in the shot. Another interesting tidbit though - the necropsy Ash does on the face-hugger - the props team made it out of, again, offal, and oysters - to truly create something that looked real.

[@johnkeenan1829]

Went to see this on opening weekend in 1979. Had no idea what it really was, and it blew my sixteen year old mind wide open. Many consider it a sci-ti movie, but for my money it is the greatest horror movie ever made. My all time favorite film.

[@CasualNerdReactions]

I definitely consider this a horror movie and the best one I’ve ever seen. I think it qualifies as sci-fi as well, but it’s horror first.

[@larrybell726]

The serene and soothing music at the end was Ridley Scott’s reward for our enduring the terror and stress. It was the Symphony No. 4 by Howard Hansen. Something to heal our tortured souls.

[@jaymanuel3396]

If you ever have a chance, I recommend seeing this in a theater, with a huge screen. I saw it as a kid in 1979 and again when they rereleased it in 2003. This is meant to be seen on the biggest screen possible. Well, when safe to do so! 😊 Awesome reaction video!

[@CasualNerdReactions]

Thanks, Jay! I will definitely see this in theaters if I ever get the chance!!!!!

[@jaymanuel3396]

@@CasualNerdReactions - You won’t regret it! Love your channel!

[@KTBroadcasting]

I'm sure someone has already mentioned this, but in case they didn't - the brilliance of Ridley Scott is perfectly encapsulated in the scene where the alien bursts out of John Hurt's chest. Scott told NO ONE besides one cameraman and Hurt. He wanted the reactions of shock, horror and fear of the other characters to be real - and it resulted in movie magic and film history. I only just discovered your channel, but I am officially a fan and have subbed! Can't wait to see more of your reactions in the future!

[@CasualNerdReactions]

Welcome to the channel! That is one of my favorite facts. Definitely movie magic.

[@jacksonwillbert1352]

the cat be like: "You're on your own, man"

[@Fluffykeith]

"It's kinda cute" Well....that's the first time I ever heard anyone describe a Chestburster that way.....

[@CasualNerdReactions]

🤣 the chest bursting scene was not cute, but I didn't expect to see such a small alien. Small things are cute. It's a fact, probably. I was just taken aback.

[@solezeta1314]

Fun fact: for the infamous chestburster scene, Ridley Scott purposely didn't tell the cast (except John Hurt aka Kane) the specific blood effects and what was exactly going to happen. So their terrified reactions are 100% real.

[@daveautzen9089]

Such a great film, and a great memory for me. My mom and I saw it in the theater, just the 2 of us. She was not a sci-if fan but we both enjoyed this film. It’s one of my favorite memories of her. So glad you liked it.

[@kriscynical]

I'm sure somebody else already said this, but the reactions to the chest-burster were sincere. They didn't tell the other actors that was going to happen, so the shrieks and flailing are their genuine reaction to that thing bursting out of his chest. Nothing like that had EVER been done in a movie before, so it was truly horrifying.

[@karlmoles6530]

I saw this in the theater in 1979, I was 13. It was the first R-Rated Horror film I ever saw. My Parents would never have allowed it. I went with my best friend, his sister and Mom. I learned what Horror was that day. The Alien ship filled me with a sense of foreboding a dread I had never felt before. The audience reactions during the chestbuster scene were insane. My friend's sister ended up in my lap crying into my neck. I was literally yelling at Parker to kill it during his and Lambert's death scene. I've never left a theater so wrung out as I did that day. My parents were not best please by the screaming nightmares I had later either.

[@CasualNerdReactions]

That is an experience. I wish I could have had a theater experience like that. I am sure your parents did not enjoy the season of nightmares at all. Oh man.

[@karlmoles6530]

​@@CasualNerdReactions One night in particular I had a nightmare, then woke up gasping for air....and the Xenomorph popped out of my closet at me. I hadn't actually woken up yet, of course. From my parent's perspective, I'm sure my piercing screams out of a totally quiet house at 3.30am was just a blast.

[@riptos0074]

I recommend watching the 1982 version of The Thing. It's probably the most traumatic film I ever watched when I was a kid. To this day though, its one of my favourite movies of all time and it's amazing all the little things you pick up on subsequent viewings. Definitely give it a shot!

[@CasualNerdReactions]

I actually just did that one last week, certainly disturbing even to this day. 😳

[@RoZaSims]

Everything in and about this film is just brilliant. Such a masterpiece! Sigourney Weaver is absolutely terrific!

[@tjsogmc]

I remember when this came out in 79 and we thought it was a Star Wars rip off from the trailers. We had no idea when we saw it in the theaters that is was actually a horror movie. You have to remember that back then we didn't have social media to tell us every detail of a movie before it came out. The only thing we knew was from the movie posters and TV coming attraction ads. It was wonderful! You actually got surprised and entertained by something fresh and new every time you went to the moviesl

[@CasualNerdReactions]

I wish that was the world now. I already had the end credits scene for the externals ruined and it’s not even out yet. I try to avoid spoilers, but so many trailers just give them away for free.

[@tjsogmc]

@@CasualNerdReactions I kind of miss the old days. When you went to a movie, the trailers were VERY important because they were sometimes literally the ONLY thing you would know about an upcoming movie. You definitely didn't want to miss them! (sometimes the trailers were better than the actual movie you went to go see). We would talk about the trailers and look at the movie posters (which were also a very important form of communication) and then speculate, anticipate, and discuss what movies to watch. Imagine a world like that. Imagine the state of Sci-fi in early spring of 1977. Space movies were Flash Gordon or Japanese monster movie level. Just your ho-hum Saturday time wasters with hokey SFX. The future they showed was clean, sterile, and predictable. Sci-fi was drive-in movie kid's stuff, not for serious adult viewing - why do you think all those movies had a kid or teenager as the central character? Now imagine going to the movies in May of that same year to take in some space movie that looked cool from the poster, and then lights going down for the first time on a movie by a random no-name director called "Star Wars"..... I wish I could express how revolutionary that movie was, and WHY it affected a generation as it did. It was, quite literally, a kick in the nuts. Sadly, people today, especially the younger generation, will never have that "Star Wars" experience of being totally blown away by something epic and unexpected - and knowing that everything just changed.

[@tjsogmc]

Everybody questions how the Alien got so big so fast, but never even give a second thought to why they had a flamethrower on a space cargo ship as standard equipment.

[@CasualNerdReactions]

Now that you bring it up, seriously! What towing vehicle comes equipped with a flame thrower? This is going to eat at me.

[@sdm7372]

I saw this film on a giant screen in loud Dolby stereo when it came out. It took a couple of days to get my head out of the film and back to reality. An incredible cinematic experience.

[@CasualNerdReactions]

I just watched a film yesterday that I still haven't fully escaped mentally. I love when films have that staying power.

[@kingscorpion7346]

a couple of years ago a high school in New Jersey put the movie on stage... a feat no one else thought of doing! the school had no budget, the art department made all the sets and props from recycled materials (including the space suits and the alien). Ridley Scott heard about it, and he gave the school $5,000 to put on an encore performance. they did, and Sigourney Weaver showed up to watch it. she sat on the front row in the middle, and as the set was being changed behind closed curtains, the alien was stalking about in the audience. it passed by her, and she said that was the scariest thing she had ever seen!

[@CasualNerdReactions]

THAT is an amazing story! Incredible Legacy. Neither Ridley Scott nor Sigourney Weaver had to do it, but how incredible that they did.

[@kingscorpion7346]

@@CasualNerdReactions someone recorded that particular show (on a phone, poor quality but its there). the drama teacher and cast and crew met with Sigourney Weaver prior to the show and she was asked to come out on stage and address the audience. everyone lost their minds and erupted into cheers! here's the link to the hour and a half show: kzbin.info/www/bejne/eomWh5R8fJx0rLc

[@CasualNerdReactions]

Thanks for this! Adding it to my watch later.

[@bb-ih9hg]

this is seriously my new favorite thing: watching someone's first time reaction to a movie I love lmao man I wish I could see most of these movies for the time again bc I watched too many as a kid and I really envy your ability to do so. really love your channel ❤️

[@CasualNerdReactions]

Glad you enjoy the channel! I remember when I discovered reaction videos and I felt the same way.

[@walkerig1]

I dare say the reason the cat was there is the reason they are on all ships, rats. The same thing the Alien was eating. In the book they tell you the hunt was over a few days while they made the weapons and at one point, they discover it had been nesting in the food store which was how it grew so fast.

[@terryhickman7929]

Just found your channel and I'm loving your reactions. Has anyone suggested you watch The Haunting (1963) for the Halloween season? It's my all-time favorite spooky movie, without the gore and stupidity of modern slasher movies.

[@elteescat]

I'm watching your reaction again. It's fun watching people see these great classics for the first time and I've really enjoyed your commentary on them.

[@CasualNerdReactions]

Thanks so much! I'm glad you're enjoying the channel.

[@timbressler1402]

Need to watch part 2....it’s amazing

[@CasualNerdReactions]

Definitely will be watching part 2!! Should post it on November 13

[@Lethgar_Smith]

I saw it the weekend it premiered after reading the local movie critic's write up in the paper. 2001 meets Psycho is how he described it. I went by myself, the theater was packed and you could feel the audience's fear. I think you could almost hear every audience member's heart pounding as Ripley makes her way to the shuttle in the final act. It was also the first movie I saw in Dolby stereo. Truly terrifying experience to see it on the big screen in all its glory.

[@CasualNerdReactions]

That's a very interesting comparison the paper made! And it worked to get you in the theater. I can imagine the fear would be so real and amplified among so many people. I don't think you could honestly have that experience today with the way people behave in theaters. (Don't know if it's true nation wide, but I've had some bad experiences the past couple times at theaters.)

[@deeasztalos2520]

Loved your reaction! I saw this in the theater when it first came out (I was 22). The trailer played on TV and lots of people were excited to see it. I was terrified before the movie even started. When it was over my chest hurt because of the suspense. There was a lot of screaming going on in that theater and I don't remember if I practically tore off my boyfriend's arm off! If you ever get a chance to see it on the big screen it's worth it!

[@CasualNerdReactions]

Yes, that's amazing! And makes me feel a little better about my reaction. I would LOVE to see this in theaters.

[@gordondavis6168]

I love that the alien derelict ship looks as if it was grown rather than made, with its asymmetrical structure, vaginal airlocks, and the ribs on the walls. Although this is a horror film, the characters have story arcs and growth. At first, Ripley takes crap from Parker and Brett but then she becomes a leader. Parker at first is selfish and only interested in money, but later he sacrifices himself by attacking the Alien so that Lambert can escape. Captain Dallas is laid back and allows his crew to solve their own problems, but then he cowboys up and volunteers to hunt the adult Alien by himself.

[@CasualNerdReactions]

There is something really organic about that structure, whatever it is, wherever it came from. Interesting! Great breakdown of the story arcs and growth! I don't always notice those things right away, but it is really evident. Thanks.

[@VonPatzy]

Yes - I would love to know more about the giant elephant Captain thing that’s ribs are exploded on the bridge of its horseshoe organic ship. The Xenomorph queen for sure did some redecorating when she laid eggs in the hull of that ship. I’ve never worked out if the xenomorphs are from that planet or if the ship crashed there due to an infestation onboard.

[@DeanStrickson]

@@VonPatzy You’re spoiling the sequel with this comment.

[@CasualNerdReactions]

Thanks for the heads up, Dean. I’ll circle back to read the comment your comment VonPatzy after I watch the sequel.

[@HighwayRamos]

@@CasualNerdReactions Swiss artist H.R. Giger was the man responsible for the design of the Alien (Xenomorph) and the derelict Alien ship. The artist described his unique style as "Biomechanical" Just after taking on the Alien project, director Ridley Scott happened on a copy of H.R. Giger's published drawings, titled "Necronomicon" in the offices of 20th Century Fox. After taking one look at it he knew he must have Giger on this film, he said he was never more sure of any decision in his life.

[@danfarmer3019]

Great reaction man! Your appreciation for good cinematography, special effects and sound/music is awesome. You have good tastes friend.

[@CasualNerdReactions]

Thanks so much, Dan!

[@danfarmer3019]

@@CasualNerdReactions No problem! Will you be watching the sequel Aliens? I also think Alien 3 is worth a watch although nowhere near as good as the first two.

[@CasualNerdReactions]

Yes! Will definitely be watching Aliens for a November 13 release. I’ll be watching them all because I can’t not watch everything. Will probably not react to 3 and 4 though, haven’t decided yet. Will definitely Include Prometheus on the channel.

[@danfarmer3019]

@@CasualNerdReactions Awesome i’m looking forward to seeing it. I think you’ll love Aliens. Predator is also another sci fi classic if you haven’t seen that i think it would be great for a reaction 👌

[@derrisreaditbefore]

What a great introduction to your channel! I've seen Alien four or five times, and it still freaks me out. Even watching reactions is enough to get my heart pounding. Such a brilliant film, it relies on amazing acting, the created atmosphere, and the sound design to build the tension, and those factors make it a movie I WILL still watch, because those things don't change - a slasher, or gore horror, loses it's punch really fast, but this stands up to repeat watching. If you haven't seen the sequel, I can HIGHLY recommend it. In the way that Alien redefined the suspense thriller, Aliens set a benchmark for action movies. Based JUST on this reaction, I've subscribed, and I'm about to check out some earlier videos - I really enjoyed this.

[@CasualNerdReactions]

I'm so glad you enjoyed my reaction, I will definitely be checking out the sequel!

[@philipholder5600]

Just because it's not CGI doesn't make it outdated

[@CasualNerdReactions]

I don’t disagree. The only part that felt outdated to me were the computer graphics, which would be the most CGI thing about this. Honestly the cinema effects that usually feel outdated to me are CGI that didn’t age well.

[@derrisreaditbefore]

The more movies I re-watch, the more I think that practical effects are ABSOLUTELY the way to go. They age *with* the movie, so always look right, whereas CGI immediately stands out and dates whichever film you're watching.

[@danielmorency2242]

Now you've GOT to see the sequel "ALIENS", where most of the pop culture references come from. lol

[@CasualNerdReactions]

For sure, Daniel! Should post my reaction November 13. I am SO psyched.

[@keverzoid]

Saw this when I was 16. I still remember thinking how brilliant it was to have the escape shuttle launch effectively backwards. It means that the two parts of the ship are traveling at opposite velocities thus increasing the distance more quickly. Yeah, I was (still) a nerd.

[@jaymantisgaming]

sweet video mate. ive been hooked on reaction videos, watching people watch my favourite movies for the first time. some of the hosts of these videos can be more annoying/obnoxious than others but i like you man, no over the top screaming (yet lol) but we can see when your shaken because your words dont work so good haha. subbed, looking forward to more. Alien 2 or Aliens is widely considered better than the first one, im in the minority on that opinion, its more action than horror, but anyone doing reactions to Aliens, the videos usually do pretty well. take care mate, subbed

[@CasualNerdReactions]

Thank you is much, Jay! I screamed more during this movie than I ever have, so if this wasn't over the top then I count it as a win! lol I never knew I stuttered until the last few weeks. I stuttered during a couple movies and I'm like, "what the heck!" I'll definitely be doing Aliens in a few weeks, thanks for your early thoughts on the movie!

[@jaymantisgaming]

@@CasualNerdReactions well since you seem to be a relatively new channel it could be a mixture of being camera-shy and being unsettled by what youre seeing. its a normal human reaction. if you're taking reccomendations then i'd love to see a reaction of Who Framed Roger Rabbit, thats if youve never seen it. the production and sheer ''how the heck did they pull that effect off??'' factor is mindblowing. take care mate

[@CasualNerdReactions]

Unfortunately, I have seen it. I don’t remember it that well, but I am committed to being honest in my first time watching videos. Definitely open to suggestions though, so thanks!

[@jeffreyfuka2594]

I'm an Alien series fanatic, I can't get enough of this Alien. It's even my phone background screen. The first movie scared the bejesus out of me in 1979 and I was hooked. Still this is my all time favorite alien creature of all time.

[@paulhoulton638]

When Alien was made Sigourney Weaver was almost unknown everybody else on the cast were well known established actors.

[@CasualNerdReactions]

That makes the movie so much better, or at least shocking. I wish that had been my experience.

[@nealwhaley63]

One thing I never understood: if you are landing on an unknown planet, wouldn’t you do a sensor scan and find a suitable landing site? The boulders the landing struts hit were not small. The crew should’ve detected them while they were descending.

[@CasualNerdReactions]

Honestly yea, the only thing that comes to mind is maybe there weren't any better spots? I know the land survey they were looking at showed a lot of uneven ground. But did it look so uneven when they were walking toward the structure?

[@believer773]

Hi friend, what a fun reaction, just subbed and can't wait for more!

[@CasualNerdReactions]

So glad you enjoyed it! Thanks for subscribing.

[@DylansPen]

The 'navigator' in the chair scene. One of the producers was walking through the various sets and he came to this one as they were still putting on the finishing touches and asked, "Why are you spending 400 thousand dollars on a set that will be on screen for less than 5 minutes?" Ridley Scott replied it would be the film's 'Cecil B Demille' moment.

[@jasontoddman7265]

And after that expense the set was destroyed in a fire some time afterward; so they couldn't re-use it in Aliens.

[@grayscribe1342]

Two things that are easily forgotten. The Nostromo is essentially a space truck. These are space truckers. Their job is it to get the truck and the freight from point A to point B. As for the 'scientist'... Well, you saw 😀 When it comes to survivor's guilt? Watch the sequel 'Aliens'. One of the best sequels ever.

[@CasualNerdReactions]

You're right about that! It is still odd they were asked to divert at all, but of course there was a reason. Definitely looking forward to the sequel!!! Will be watching it next week for a targeted November 13 release.

[@grayscribe1342]

@@CasualNerdReactions It's not a spoiler, the sequel goes into that a little more, but consider, the entire crew was expendable if the company got it's hands on an alien organism. They didn't even care what kind of organism. Even a cellular lifeform would be reason enough for them to sacrifice an entire crew. Probably any of their crews. That should tell you something about the mindset of the company.

[@MySerpentine]

I love that the company is the real villain.

[@AuroraMeansDawn27]

Because money and power are the true evils

[@MySerpentine]

@@AuroraMeansDawn27 Exactly.

[@artvankampen8993]

Excellent! You experienced this as it was meant to be. Sound design is key in this film. Ridley Scott has discussed how the use of sound and eventually strobe lighting were deliberately used to cause an uncomfortable anxiety to keep the viewer constantly on edge after a certain point in the film. Headphones in a darkened room are the way to go! Saw this at a drive-in in 1979. Traumatized me forever in a great way. Brilliant movie.

[@CasualNerdReactions]

Yes! To date this is still the scariest film I’ve seen, I think. It was so real.

[@boki1693]

"It's so much bigger than it was!" Do I even need to say it? LOL.

[@CasualNerdReactions]

🤣 I don’t think you have a choice. It was the perfect set up. I’m gonna go marathon the office now.

[@cirilobraga8983]

You're one of my favorite reactors and I always look forward to seeing all of your videos.

[@CasualNerdReactions]

Thanks so much for this comment!

[@joegotham27]

In 1979, this was only Ms. Weaver's second picture and the concept of the Final Girl had yet to be fully realized. Mr. Skerritt was the marquee name and assumed lead and his death halfway through was a shock. The rest of the cast were all established actors and setting Ripley up to triumph was also unconventional in an era when women were often just portrayed as damsels in distress just before they started to gain more agency (though initially more on television than films)

[@AstroXeno]

There's a famous story about an early screening of Alien where one of the ushers fainted and fell face first through the auditorium doors when Parker knocks Ash's head off. Ridley Scott talks about it in a 1979 interview with Fantastic Films (and probably other places, but that's the one I can confirm) and it was one of the reasons my mother wouldn't let me see it when I was a kid. At the time it was released, Alien was widely argued to be the scariest movie ever made. (The dissenters argued it was The Exorcist)

[@CasualNerdReactions]

I think those two might still be the scariest movies ever made! Although I'm no expert in horror, these are my first steps into the genre. Amazing story! Thanks for sharing.

[@jazzx251]

Exorcist beats A L I E N? ... Never! A couple of priests doing mumbo-jumbo while a puppet swirls its head around spewing out green juice and swearing alot ... Versus - a terrifying ordeal onboard a working-class spaceship, with genuine characters and believable discussions about what they should do to rid the spaceship of the alien menace.

[@lindanicholson950]

I never thought the Exorcist was scary at all. There was a lot of hype. It was on the evening news. People were running around thinking they were possessed. I thought it was badly acted and over done in the special effects.

[@TTM9691]

Some aliens are adorable, like the end of Close Encounters, or E.T. Other aliens, however....... :P What a great choice to do these back to back! Chris, your intros are EXCELLENT. You really have a great way of making this almost a story of your reaction. And all your graphics and stuff, right on. You made me laugh many times, like this one: 9:23. / I love how you singled out Veronica Cartright's performance. If there's one voice I hear when I think of "Alien", it's hers. / When this came out.....nobody knew who Sigourney Weaver was. Some of the rest of the cast were slightly familiar character actors, but nobody was a "star". Now, everyone focuses right in on Sigourney Weaver, but back then, we all just assumed the Captain was the main character, just from the conditioning we'd gotten from other movies. But then he dies, and at that point, any of the characters could have been the hero, the idea that it was her that survives was in no way assumed. Her character isn't particularly warm, and some of the original audience just saw her like a "by-the book b**tch", the one who gets slapped because she wasn't going to let them back onto the ship. Surely, she's obviously going to be eaten by the alien!/ PS: Now if YOU'RE doing "Jaws 2", I'm interested! Only certain reactors can get me to click on that turkey! (or is it? You will be the judge!! And we will accept your judgment! :D) And "Rear Window" and "Poltergeist"? I almost forgot that you did these! What a channel! I hope you're having fun, because these are fun and special to watch! PSS. Great edit as well!

[@CasualNerdReactions]

SO... not all Aliens are the SAME?! I guess that's good, really brings out a variety of movies. I'm glad you like the intros. I mostly just want to explain what I'm curious about the movie as quick as possible and get into the reaction. Most people don't care to see me talk 🤣 It makes so much sense that she wasn't a big name at the time. Nothing about the movie would have made me fixate on Sigourney Weaver and I would probably be annoyed at HER character if I hadn't known a bit about the movie already. They were all amazing though! Yes, I know Jaws 2 has mixed reviews and it'll be interesting to see how it goes. Will almost certainly not ever do 3 & 4 unless I feel like doing a run of usually considered bad movies. I tend to find something to enjoy in most things though so should be fun! I can't wait to watch Rear Window and Poltergeist. Will be watching on Monday & Tuesday. I am having SO much doing these and I'm so glad you're enjoying them.

[@TTM9691]

@@CasualNerdReactions Yes! (regarding the intros). We get to hear what hooks you in. / Hey, I thought you had recorded Jaws 2 already, did not mean to influence you! It's actually great!🙄 No, seriously. 😐

[@CasualNerdReactions]

​@@TTM9691 I refuse to be influenced by others opinions. I would have watched it already, but I took a few days vacation with my family.

[@Otokichi786]

Hipsters abhor black-and-white movies, whining "why isn't this movie in color?" Take a look at "Them!" (1954) a seminal SF movie that begins as a mystery; what is that little girl doing, wandering in the desert? (Note: "Them!" was originally planned to be a 3D Color movie.;)

[@CasualNerdReactions]

@@Otokichi786 Sounds fascinating, it's on the list!

[@whade62000]

I mean this was the movie that put Sigourney Weaver on the map so knowing about her NOW kinda spoils the ending, you're supposed to not recognize the actors and make your own guesses about who will survive

[@CasualNerdReactions]

Not knowing her and having different expectations would have absolutely made this movie better!

[@shainewhite2781]

13:17, to make this scene work, they had a dog, a doberman, behind a cardboard box and removed the box to have the cat look like it's hissing at the alien.

[@tomyoung9049]

Should definitely check out part 2, I'm sure you would like it. Try to find the extended version, has some good extra shots.

[@CasualNerdReactions]

Yes Tom! I will be watching the extended version soon for a November 13 release :D

[@mikeortiz6008]

I love how later generations are seeing true classic horror movies! I believe the tagline or one of them for this was "No One Can Hear You Scream In Space" I remember seeing this in theaters my parents had to take me because it was rated R after we saw it my Mom didnt speak to me for weeks because it was so terrifying! I cant wait for you to see the sequel! Great Reaction Chris!!!

[@CasualNerdReactions]

That is the most iconic tag line I’ve ever heard, and yes it was this movie. I’m obsessed with the fact no one really knew what they were walking into. This wasn’t Star Wars. 😳🤣

[@mikeortiz6008]

@@CasualNerdReactions Absolutely it was definitely different from Star Wars which both of these franchises came out in the late 70s so being a teenager I loved the biggest movies of my lifetime but love I can share it with my grandchildren!

[@Vamirez]

"I kinda wanna go there." "I later changed my mind." LOL :D

[@eddhardy1054]

2:45...Back in 1979 Sigourney Weaver wasn't thought of as the star of the film. If anything the most well known actor was probably Yaphet Kotto. Also is it strange to call the ship's computer Mother when it's main duty is 'supposed' to be looking after the running of the ship and the well-being of it's crew? That does sound kinda maternal.

[@CasualNerdReactions]

Knowing Sigourney weaver wasn’t a big name makes this movie even more impressive. It’s not strange knowing its function and purpose. It was just unusual to my ears to call an AI something so human. Of course knowing that twist now… 🤔

[@eddhardy1054]

@@CasualNerdReactions Also don't forget we now call an actual AI interface Alexa or Siri

[@CasualNerdReactions]

You got me there. By the time we reach the years alien takes place we may very well be calling AI mother and father.

[@eddhardy1054]

@@CasualNerdReactions As long as you enjoyed the film mate, that's the important thing 😊

[@eddhardy1054]

@@CasualNerdReactions Cheers!

[@joannepauley9622]

Great reaction! Lol at energy shot. Can’t wait for Aliens. Thanks again for your reaction

[@CasualNerdReactions]

The energy shot!! I thought it killed me, nope just the movie. Glad you enjoyed, thank you for watching, Joanne.

[@sca88]

I was 14 when I saw this 2nd day out and the line at the theater went around the building. It was freaky but I was pretty prepared having seen Exorcist, Texas Chainsaw Massacre, The Hills Have Eyes etc and all those 70's cult horror films as a kid.

[@CasualNerdReactions]

I am very curious to see as I watch more horror if I become more immune and less intensely scared. Time will tell!

[@snakehandler87]

I loved your review of this!

[@pip-se8pv]

Great reaction dude.

[@marcbloom7462]

This was Ridley Scott's second feature movie. You should check out "The Duelists" with Keith Carradine and Harvey Keitel, which was his first movie

[@CasualNerdReactions]

That's awesome! Great suggestion. It's on the list, thanks.

[@Shari225]

I didn't see Alien for years after it came out. Its reputation alone scared me! When I finally did see it, I understood why that rep. I loved it.

[@nathanfitzgerald6651]

The whole sequence of Ripley outrunning the ship's self-destruct clock to get to the escape pod is the most unrelenting, suspenseful part of any movie I've ever seen in my life. It literally tears my nervous system to shreds every time I watch it.

[@CasualNerdReactions]

Completely agree. My heart was POUNDING. That doesn’t always happen during movies.

[@nathanfitzgerald6651]

@@CasualNerdReactions One of the best things I can say about Alien's suspense-extreme is that it NEVER, ever gets easier to watch. I've seen this movie many, many times and my nerves are still a mess every time, just like the first time I watched it.

[@CasualNerdReactions]

That’s awesome! I’ve heard a few other say the opposite, so I look forward to seeing what my experience will be. I hope it’s similar to yours.

[@brucewayne1014]

Alien is a beautiful, terrifying masterpiece and I loved watching your reactions. You should definitely check out Aliens, which is also a fantastic film and for which Sigourney Weaver deservedly received her first Oscar nomination, but you can skip the rest of the sequels after that.

[@CasualNerdReactions]

Thanks! Aliens will be released November 13. I can’t wait to see it!

[@ChemicalCrash]

Fantastic reaction! Subscribed! 😁👍

[@CasualNerdReactions]

Thanks so much!

[@JTMason001]

You’ve gained a new follower LOL! I loved watching your reaction to one of my FAVORITE films. “Alien” and it’s sequel are brilliant movies! Loved this …. Looking forward to see what you react to next! And you’re very handsome which adds to the whole feel… 😜

[@CasualNerdReactions]

I'm so glad you enjoyed it! DEFINITELY looking forward to watching the sequel as well as other great movies.

[@crofootski]

My husband and I saw this movie in the theater in 1979. We always discussed movies on the way out of the theater and on the way home. We were both speechless after Alien.

[@CasualNerdReactions]

Speechlessness feels appropriate.

[@irina1296]

This amazing movie almost scared me to death in the past. Now I re-watch it every single year. I adore the whole Alien universe. You should check all of them too. First two are the best but each film adds something new and interesting

[@CasualNerdReactions]

I’m a bit of a completionist so I am SURE I’ll watch them all. I will definitely be rewatching this one too. I really really loved it. ☺️

[@richieclean]

"It's structural perfection is matched only by its hostility"

[@CasualNerdReactions]

That is a quote and a perfect one at that!

[@Tralman1965]

Your review is great! I loved it!

[@Retrospective.]

I remember seeing this when it came out, we had aliens before in sci-fi, but nothing anywhere near as nightmareish as the Alien, when i first seen it's long creepy head, and a mouth within a mouth, i felt sick and terrified,

[@CasualNerdReactions]

That is definitely another disadvantage I had going in. I had a general idea of what it looked like, and have seen all kinds of different terrifying aliens in different mediums. I can only imagine how terrifying it would be if I hadn't.

[@paulamoya7956]

Authenticity is so rare these days .. Thank You!⭐️✔️

[@heidi_d]

Fantastic reaction AGAIN Casual Nerd Reactions! I’m a bigger fan every reaction I watch. Great work! 😊👍🏻

[@CasualNerdReactions]

Thanks so much, Heidi. Very encouraging!

[@BrianSmithNow]

I was going to go to sleep, but your reactions are entertaining. I guess I'll watch your "Aliens" video next. 👍🏾