Review of They Live (1988) by Ken P — 12 Oct 2018

This may be the greatest B movie of all time. A classic Sci-Fi genre homage with overt political messages drawing on late-night radio conspiracy theory tropes, They Live is a perfect example of hitting the mark you aim for.

This is not high-end special-effects driven space battle scii-fi, nor is this Oscar material. But the directing, tone, writing and acting are all perfect for this B movie. Roddy Piper is fantastic in the lead role, posturing through wonderfully quotable quips and bringing his wrestling skills to bear on the longest and perhaps most-parodied fight scene in movie history.

If you like cheezy B movie sci-fi this is right up your alley. If you love quotable movies, this one is a cornucopia. If you are looking for subtle drama, romance or high-minded Oscar bait, this movie is not for you. But for what it is, you won't find anything better.