Retro Film Review: Species II (1998)

(source:tmdb.org)

In 1995 the author of this review had met Species with great expectations. I looked forward to a science fiction classic in the same category with Alien. And, just like in many similar occasions, I was utterly disappointed. When Species II, its 1998 sequel directed by Peter Medak, appeared in my country's video stores, I didn't expect much. Because of that I wasn't disappointed with the film. Actually, it proved to be one of those rare occasions when sequels turn out to be better than original. Considering the poor quality of Species, this wasn't a great accomplishment, though.

The plot takes few years after the mysterious aliens tried to take over the Earth with the seductive abilities of alien/human hybrids. Aliens have adopted new strategy of infiltration and their first victim is Patrick Ross (played by Justin Lazard), first astronaut to land on Mars. While trying to collect souvenirs from Mars' surface he gets infected. The effects of the infections would become noticeable only after his successful return on Earth. There he, as a hero and son of powerful US Senator Judson Ross (played by James Cromwell), enjoys many privileges, including ability to sleep with any woman he wants. This is useful for aliens because every sexual act almost immediately results with small alien/human hybrids making their way from exploding women's bellies. When US government learns what is going on, two professionals - survivors from the team that had dealt with similar problem in the past - are called in to deal with the problem. Professional assassin Press Lenox (played by Michael Madsen) rejoins Dr. Laura Baker (played by Marg Helgenberger), biologist who had been busy creating alien hybrid of her own. This new alien called "Eve" (played by Natasha Henstridge) looks almost exactly like the deadly "Sil", but she is genetically programmed to be more docile and humane. Her telepathic connection with fellow alien could prove useful, though, and she starts helping team to locate Ross.

Species II isn't good film, but in many areas it is better than its overrated predecessor. First of all, Peter Medak directed it with more discipline than Donaldson in the original. Species II enjoys much better ensemble of character actors; although most of them are unable to breathe life into paper-thin characters they play, their presence alone can provide humour. Probably the best example is Richard Belzer in the role of US President. On the other hand, Mykelti Williamson went too far in his attempt to become this film's comic relief - his portrayal of black astronaut who is genetically immune to alien infection is very close to racial stereotype. On the other hand, sensitive viewers are going to be more annoyed with the combination blood, gore and female nudity, rarely seen in mainstream Hollywood films since 1980s. Natasha Henstridge, whose nudity was main attraction of the first film, barely undresses in this film but this is compensated with somewhat better acting. However, her efforts, like the efforts of almost everyone in this film, aren't enough to turn this into anything more than merely watchable film.

RATING: 4/10 (+)

(Note: The text in its original form was posted in Usenet newsgroup rec.arts.films.reviews on June 1st 2004)