Review of Aliens of the Deep (2005) by Thequietgamer — 21 Feb 2018

*Note: This is a review for the 99 minute version of the film.*.

Aliens of the Deep takes us into the dark depths of our world in order to show us the life not just existing, but thriving there in the harsh conditions without sunlight. This documentary is about more than showing off strange aquatic life though. James Cameron uses the film to show exploring the secrets of our oceans could one day lead to the discovery of life on another planet. The movie is absolutely gorgeous. We get some great looks at some truly strange deep sea creatures and their homes. The underwater rock formations really do look like something straight from a sci-fi film. Those familiar with Cameron's other works will have little trouble seeing how these underwater expeditions have influenced his imagination. The scenery is eerily reminiscent of that in Aliens. Those who just want to see things they would otherwise not be able to without a degree in marine biology, the movie delivers well. However there's much more going on in Aliens of the Deep.

It was genuinely interesting to hear the scientists explain how all of what they are doing is furthering not only the work of marine biologists, but NASA as well. On top of learning about how these unique creatures live in a world without the sun, I also got to find out how actual alien lifeforms might exist in a very similar way and what planets they might be on. This side of things carries a sense of optimism about the future of space travel. It perhaps gets a little too carried away with hypothetical lifeforms brought to life by some subpar special effects, but I can't blame the people for being so excited for the possibilities. It is their life's work after all and it can be fascinating to theorize about even if you wouldn't count yourself amongst the people ready to jump on the first shuttle to Mars.

Those who just want to look at weird fish might find themselves a little disappointed with all the other stuff going on in Aliens of the Deep. Those interested in something a little more educational over a wider variety of fields are sure to be entertained. Make no mistake, this isn't among the more casually oriented documentaries out there. James Cameron delivered something almost of the deep as the seas it's exploring. The people involved with this film dive under the water's surface while keeping their eyes to the stars. The comparisons between ocean and space life are interesting and rouses the imagination all the way through.