Alien Vs Predator (2004) Dir: Paul W. S. Anderson

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The ultimate science fiction fantasy battle comes to life in this bonkers 2004 action face-off. It knows what it is, and it doesn't try to be anything but that.

It's not a narrative film, it has a simple premise with minimal exposition, allowing for the focus to be on the over-the-top and intensely entertaining action.

This film was never going to win best screenplay or anything like that, but honestly, I don't care. I love both franchises, and seeing the two antagonists collide in an epic and violent duel is exactly what I wanted.

Sanaa Lathan heads up this one, and she did alright. The film didn't really require her to do anything more than that.

Tom Woodruff Jr returns in the alien suit, he seems to be a reliable source for that role. As is Ian Whyte, who plays the Predator. Both men have given some consistently good physical acting performances in their respective roles.

Lance Henrikson is another actor ro return to the franchise, having already appeared previously in 1992's Alien 3. He has far more to do here, and for what it's worth, I liked his performance.

As far as other actors go, the noteworthy ones were Raoul Bova, Ewen Bremer of Trainspotting fame, Agathe de La Boulaye, Colin Salmon and Tommy Flanagon.

Overall, this is the perfect example of a "leave your brain at the door" film. The director; Paul W. S. Anderson, knew exactly what needed to be done to succeed with this one. If you don't try to analyse it too deeply and if you just want to have an exciting evening, give this a watch. It's great fun.