If you’re in the mood to watch a blockbuster Sci-fi film, then continue to read this article. Today, I’m going to introduce you to a similar cult classic film, Aliens, which was directed by James Cameron. Furthermore, I’ll also share with you, where was Aliens filmed.
The American Sci-fi film, Aliens released in 1986 was the second installment of the Alien film series. Apart from directing the film, Cameron also worked on the script alongside David Giler and Walter Hill in developing the screenplay. The basic premise of Aliens is centered around the character of Ellen Ripley, a skilled space explorer. The story takes a sharp turn when Ripley encounters extraterrestrial creatures, devouring the bodies of her colleagues at the base.
Even though Aliens was released a number of years after the first film, this bone-chilling thriller flick became a commercial success. Aliens went on to gross over 183 million at the box office, against the production budget of $18 million. Apart from winning 18 major awards, this intense action film also bagged two Oscars. The critics praised the performance of Sigourney Beaver and Michael Biehn in the lead roles and reviewed the overall story positively.
So, before I give you an overview of this film, let’s explore where was Aliens filmed, so that you can analyze the filming locations of this Oscar-winning film, up close.
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Where Was Aliens Filmed? Let’s Know This Oscar Winning Film Closely!
During the initial stage of production, the makers wanted to shoot the entire film in America. But after consulting the legal team, the makers were advised to change the filming location. The previous lawsuit which was filed against the Alien franchise was one of the reasons, which motivated Cameron to shoot the Aliens in the UK.
James wanted to avoid any such legal problems at all costs. Thus, after conferring with other creative heads of the unit, he asked the production members to scout potential shooting locations in and around England.
Important to mention that, the majority of the sequences shown in the movie are rendered through CGI and VFX. So, the director categorically asked the crew to contact major studios in England.
After a couple of days, the production members submitted the list of studios to the director, along with some locations. Cameron then instructed the crew to prepare for shooting.
The principal photography began in the last week of September 1985 and continued till 14th December of the same year. Reportedly, there were no major issues which the crew had to face while shooting in England.
The majority of the logistics required for shooting were arranged in advance. The filming schedule too remained unaltered for the most part. The crew efficiently utilized the time and managed to stay on top of the filming dates.
Now, without further ado, let’s discuss where was Aliens filmed in-depth, and find out more about the specific shooting sites.
London, England | UK
The opening sequence of the movie, where we see the female lead inside a space station, was actually filmed in London. The Acton Lane Power Station was used to capture the scenes of the atmosphere processing station shown in the film.
The production members had to acquire special shooting permission from the authorities of the power station, before filming the exterior and interior scenes of the power plant. Important to mention that, the scenes which were filmed here, were later morphed inside a specialized studio.
After filming in London the production members then moved to the next filming location and shot the remaining sequences of the movie.
Buckinghamshire, England | UK
As mentioned, the majority of the filming was done inside various well-equipped studios located in Buckinghamshire. In order to shoot the interior sequences of the Sulaco SpaceShip Cargo Bay, the production members used the Pinewood Studios located in Iver Heath.
Albert R. Broccoli 007 Stage along with S Stage in Pinewood Studios was used to film the interior sequences of the spaceship. Whereas the Long Process sound stage was used to capture the sequences of the alien planet shown in the movie.
Filming in Buckinghamshire lasted till the second week of December 1985. The production members then returned to America and began working on the promotion of the film.
Alright guys, let’s discuss the plot of Aliens in brief. So that you can get a fair idea about the storyline of this film. In the meantime, you can check out The Devil to Pay, Dante’s Peak, and Plane filming locations as well.
Plot Of Aliens | What’s It About
Aliens is centered around the character of Ellen Ripley, a skilled space explorer, and the sole survivor of an alien attack. At the beginning of the film, the female lead wakes up from her deep stasis state after 57 years. She then begins looking for her other space explorers.
As the story gradually progresses further, the female lead learns about the destruction which took place, while she was asleep. Upon further investigation, Ripley soon finds a bunch of scary-looking creatures devouring the body of her mates. Watch Aliens find out how Ripley battles with the extra-terrestrial creatures on an unforgiving planet.
Final Words
Ok friends, so now that we’ve reached the end, I hope now you finally know where was Aliens filmed. If you liked the read, don’t forget to mention it in the comments section below. To read similar pieces you can check out other amazing articles on Viebly as well.
Who Are The Cast Members Of The Film Aliens?
The cast of the film Aliens includes Sigourney Weaver, Michael Biehn and Carry Henn along with some other actors.
Who Is The Cinematographer Of The Film Aliens?
Adrian Biddle is the cinematographer of the film Aliens.
What Is The Rating Of The Film Aliens?
The film Aliens has an R rating.
Who Is The Music Director Of The Film Aliens?
James Horner is the music director of the film Aliens.
Who Is The Producer Of The Film Aliens?
Gale Ann Herd was the producer of the film Aliens.
What Is The Runtime Of The Film Aliens?
2h 17m is the runtime of the film Aliens.
