20 Greatest Direct Sequels Ever Made

6. Aliens

Back To The Future II
20th Century Fox

Never one to stick to the established template, James Cameron smartly upends the 'haunted house in space' concept of Ridley Scott's original to deliver a Vietnam-inspired war movie in space, utilizing some gripping set-pieces and stunning practical effects to create one of the best-ever entries in both the sci-fi and action genres.

Aliens manages to be just as atmospheric and laced with tension as its predecessor, despite preferring gung-ho action to claustrophobic scares. Anchored by Sigourney Weaver's iconic Academy Award nominated performance and backed by a memorable supporting ensemble, Cameron's sequel is an unrelenting, exhilirating and action-packed roller-coaster ride of a movie.

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