Wow. This film.

I first saw this on BBC2 in the 80’s when I was a kid and loved it. But would I still love it when watching it again today.

The answer is a resounding YES! The emotional pull of this film is unlike any other John Carpenter film with it having one of the biggest hearts I think I’ve ever experienced within a movie. There are uniformly brilliant performances all round with Karen Allen shining alongside Charles Martin Smith. Jeff Bridges rightfully received an Oscar nomination for his portrayal of the alien which begs the question- why did the Oscar committee only recognise this Carpenter movie for a tip of the cap? 

The movie is also like Carpenter’s love letter to America with roadside diners, the joy of travelling cross country and even Las Vegas being lovingly photographed in all of their larger than life gorgeousness. 

Add to this one of Jack Nitzsche’s best scores and you have a fantastic movie experience. If you don’t cry during the scene involving the deer you don’t have a heart.

4.5 out of 5 stars