John Carpenter, the master of genre-bending cinema, delivered another cult classic with 1988’s They Live. This action-packed science fiction film, starring Roddy Piper, isn’t just a thrilling ride; it’s a sharp and satirical commentary on society, consumerism, and the hidden forces that control our world.
The story follows John Nada (Piper), a drifter who arrives in Los Angeles seeking work. He finds a construction job and befriends Frank (Keith David). Nada stumbles upon a pair of sunglasses that reveal a shocking truth: the world is not as it seems. Wearing the glasses, Nada sees reality for what it truly is – a black and white world where subliminal messages bombard the population, urging conformity and obedience. Even more disturbingly, he discovers that many people in positions of power are actually aliens disguised as humans.
Carpenter masterfully blends action and sci-fi elements with a healthy dose of dark humor. Piper, known for his wrestling persona, is perfectly cast as the blue-collar hero who unwittingly becomes humanity’s savior. His delivery of iconic lines like “I have come here to chew bubblegum and kick ass… and I’m all out of bubblegum,” has cemented its place in cinematic history. Another unforgettable scene is the extended fistfight between Nada and Frank, a humorous and brutal sequence that highlights Frank’s initial disbelief and resistance to the truth.
While some might find the alien makeup effects dated or intentionally cheesy, they contribute to the film’s unique charm and satirical tone. They Live isn’t about hyper-realistic aliens; it’s about the insidious nature of control and manipulation hidden in plain sight. The film’s ending, while perhaps abrupt, delivers a satisfyingly cynical punchline.
They Live has rightfully earned its status as a cult classic. It’s a film that is both entertaining and thought-provoking, aging remarkably well due to its timeless themes of social commentary and rebellion. Despite its low-budget origins, Carpenter crafted a film that resonates with audiences even today.
On DVD, They Live offers a sharp anamorphic widescreen (2.35:1) transfer and Dolby Surround 2.0 sound. However, the lack of a Special Edition release in the U.S. is a missed opportunity. European releases boast a two-disc special edition featuring a commentary track with Carpenter and Piper, leaving fans in America wanting more.
Ultimately, They Live is an amusing and insightful sci-fi adventure. Based on Ray Faraday Nelson’s short story “Three O’Clock in the Morning,” and cleverly written by Carpenter under the pseudonym “Frank Armitage,” They Live remains a must-see for fans of John Carpenter and anyone who enjoys a smart, satirical, and action-packed science fiction film.
