On They Live - A Review

They Live

They Live is another of John Carpenter's classic films. A cult sleeper hit from 1988, They Live features former pro wrestling superstar, Rowdy Roddy Piper as the main character who stumbles upon a worldwide alien conspiracy. It is one of the films that I believe inspired the tabletop RPG Dark Conspiracy, and certainly one of the films that inspired me where that RPG is concerned.

Before you dismiss it, you should know that Roddy Piper actually has some acting chops. I've seen him in other things throughout the years and, despite the fact that he got better, They Live isn't a complete waste of his talents. One of the most memorable things about the movie is the long fight scene that comes at the end of the first act - something director John Carpenter has admitted was added literally because they had a professional wrestler in the title role. But Piper handles the lead turn quite well.

I could go on and on about this flick but the most important thing is to point out how well it holds up so many years later. Granted, it is impossible to see past the obvious 1980s' hair-dos and clothing, but the story, direction, acting, and other facets of the film carry it well despite the dated aspects.

A sci-fi/horror/action flick with comedic overtones, They Live has something for everyone.

© C Harris Lynn, 2011