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The basic story involves a strange, secret experiment
involved with genetically manipulating alien DNA. When the experiment
goes awry, and the creature escapes, a special team is sent in pursuit.
It's fun to see Kingsley, in a lighter role, as the director of the
alien search team. Kingsley commands the screen easily, as he usually
does.
Michael Madsen makes a strong impression as a tough
guy mercenary whose job it is to kill the alien if necessary. Exluding
the easy masculinity of the young Robert Mitchum, it's easy to see why
the semi-hunky Madsen is building something of a cult following (and
I mean you, Mary!).
Forest Whitaker almost steals the show as a team member possessed with
extreme empathy, allowing him to sense what people, or alien creatures,
are feeling. Whitaker has an amazing capacity to generate audience sympathy
Natasha Richardson is a revelation in the title role. Sometimes blonde
and naked, and other times deadly, with tentacles, Richardson is sure
to keep your attention, particularly if you're male and possess a pulse.
Her mixture of blonde sexiness, and gross alien qualities makes her
the ultimate good date/bad date, all rolled into one.
If you liked SPECIES you may enjoy "Aliens,"
and "Predator".
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