Proving sequels can be better, this high octane thrill ride from writer/director James Cameron takes the series in a completely different direction while still honoring what came before. Picking up 57 years after the first film, Sigourney Weaver turns in another stellar performance in her now-famous role. While Alien was much more an atmospheric horror movie, this incarnation is very much a Vietnam-inspired war film although it still packs plenty of scares with its action.

The all-star cast doesn't disappoint. The Colonial Marines immediately make you root for them although you know they're too arrogant for their own good, but you like them all the same. Hicks especially has a quiet cool demeanor that makes him all the more badass, and their state of the art firepower should impress even the most cynical action fan. As if the good guys weren't enough, Paul Reiser plays a slimy company man to perfection. Every single person who walks out of this movie is going to hate his guts. He's so good I think he might be permanently typecast after this, and for good reason, he excels at this type of character.

James Horner's music adds a new level to the piece, making your pulse race as bullet fly onscreen. The story remains deceptively simple as before, but it cleverly mimics elements from the original including a countdown in the third act, an android onboard, etc.

For all the bloodshed on display, the film actually delivers a satisfying, happy ending, which is a welcomed relief after all the carnage earlier. Cameron takes you to hell, but he knows how to bring you back too. This is the work of an expert storyteller.