Paranormal Pajama Party

“Aliens”: Game Over, Men – Game Over

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Episode notes

In this thrilling conclusion to our two-part series on the “Alien” franchise, Paranormal Pajama Party dissects the 1986 classic sequel, "Aliens."

We’re talking about Ellen Ripley’s groundbreaking portrayal of a female action hero and feminist icon, considering the ethics of care in Ripley's decision-making, and contrasting it with traditional male action heroes like Arnold.

But Ripley’s not alone in the “Alien” universe, which is the best part. We’ll examine the other diverse female characters, including tough-as-nails Private Vasquez and little Newt, discussing how they challenge gender norms in different ways.

Finally, we’ll come face-to-face with the Xenomorph Queen, the ultimate embodiment of the monstrous-feminine, exploring how she represents primal female power and fertility, and comparing her to Ripley – another mother protecting her young.

Key moments

0:00 – Content warning
1:10 – An overly detailed synopsis of James Cameron's "Aliens"
23:06 – Ellen Ripley, feminist icon
34:39 – Corporal Hicks, a feminist ally
35:44 – PFC Vasquez shows us another kind of feminism
39:40 – Why is Newt a girl?
42:01 – All hail the Queen Xenomorph
47:09 – Monsters, mothers, and monster-mothers

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