Species (1995)

During a search for extraterrestrial life in 1993, a transmission is received detailing an alien DNA structure, along with instructions on how to splice it with human DNA.

Assuming the aliens to be friendly, scientists follow the transmission’s instructions and create a genetic hybrid.

The result is Sil (former model Natasha Henstridge in her movie debut), a sensual but deadly shape-changing creature who transforms from a beautiful woman to an armour-plated killing machine in the blink of an eye.

Chief government scientist Xavier Fitch (Ben Kingsley) assembles a team of behavioural scientists and mercenaries to locate and destroy Sil before she manages to find a mate and breed. Meanwhile, she jumps a train and embarks on a killing spree in Los Angeles with the overriding aim of propagating a new species.

Ex-marine and government-sponsored assassin Preston Lennox (Michael Madsen of Reservoir Dogs fame) leads the team of lab technicians in pursuit of the mutant. Meanwhile, twitchy empath Dan Smithson (Platoon‘s Forest Whitaker) uses his powers of ESP to track Sil.

With sets designed by HR Geiger and visual effects from four-time Oscar winner Richard Edlund, there’s plenty to take your mind off the preposterous plot in this, at times, unintentionally hilarious sci-fi thriller.

The cast members manage admirably to keep straight faces despite the number of cheesy lines, but there are a few genuinely scary moments.

Xavier Fitch
Ben Kingsley
Preston “Press” Lennox
Michael Madsen
Dr Stephen Arden
Alfred Molina
Dan Smithson
Forest Whitaker
Dr Laura Baker
Marg Helgenberger
Sil
Natasha Henstridge
Young Sil
Michelle Williams
Mother
Virginia Morris
Victoria Roth, Ph.D
Shirley Prestia
Mrs Morris
Herta Ware
Fitch’s Secretary
Melissa Bickerton
Robbie
Anthony Guidera
John Carey
Whip Hubley
Marie
Dendrie Taylor
Alien Sil (voice)
Frank Welker

Director
Roger Donaldson