ER
Ellen Ripley
The only survivor of the Nostromo, traumatised but the one person who understands the threat.
ClearStory FILM GUIDE
Aliens1986
Know the marines. Follow the colony. Keep the rescue plan clear.
What you need to know
Ripley’s escape shuttle is recovered after drifting for 57 years. While she slept, humans established the colony Hadley’s Hope on LV-426. When contact with the colony is lost, Company representative Burke persuades Ripley to accompany a team of Colonial Marines as an adviser.
2 hours 17 minutesScience-fiction action horrorSecond film in release order
OPTIONAL REFERENCECharacters, places and useful termsContains story details. Open after watching.
QUICK REMINDER
7 peopleThe only names you need
N
Newt
A young girl who survived alone in the colony’s ventilation system.
DH
Dwayne Hicks
A calm Colonial Marine corporal who increasingly trusts Ripley’s judgment.
BH
Bishop
The mission’s android. Ripley distrusts androids because of Ash.
CB
Carter Burke
The Company representative who encouraged the colonists to investigate the derelict.
VG
Vasquez and Drake
Close friends and heavily armed members of the marine squad.
GA
Gorman and Apone
Gorman commands the mission; Apone is the experienced squad sergeant.
DURING THE FILM
Recap as you go
Choose only a scene you have completed. If you are unsure, wait until you finish watching.
Optional story focusContains story details. Open after watching.
AFTER WATCHING
Key story points
This section contains major spoilers, including the ending.
Content note: Sustained battle violence, body horror, child danger, creature attacks, strong language, death and flashing lights.
An unofficial, independently written viewing companion for Aliens (1986). Not affiliated with or endorsed by Disney, 20th Century Studios or the filmmakers. No official images, logos or film artwork are used.