Released in 1988, "They Live" presents a biting critique of consumerist culture and political manipulation which in these, let's call them challenging times, has never been more reliant.
Wrestling legend Roddy Piper, plays Nada, a transient construction worker whose name we only know from the credits. He wanders into town looking for work, and instead stumbles upon an alien plot to control humanity using consumerism. These aliens are really ugly things with formaldehyde faces, all scarred and piebald almost like syphilis victims. They hide among the denizens of Los Angeles, working white-collar jobs, controlling the television stations, embedding their insidious subliminal messages in billboards, magazines, advertisements — Obey. Consume. Watch TV. Marry and reproduce. Nada finds a pair of plastic sunglasses that tear down the veneer, exposing the ghouls and cryptograms in black and white, which lends "They Live" a B-movie air.
Carpenter, renowned for his auteurist voice in the realms of horror, sci-fi, and action, demonstrates his multifaceted talent as the director, writer, and composer of "They Live." This film stands as a testament to his unique cinematic vision - certainly top 3 in an excellent filmography - and penchant for infusing societal themes within genre storytelling. His deliberate pacing, emphasized by a blues-themed score composed alongside Alan Howarth, sets the tone for one of the best sci-fi movies of the 80s (scratch that, ever) which will leave you well entertained until you realize how accurate it is in today's world.
"They Live" had an interesting beginning, stemming from a short story titled "Eight O'Clock in the Morning" by Ray Nelson, which Carpenter came across in Eclipse Comics' Alien Encounters. Fueled by Carpenter's disdain for commercialism and the socio-political climate of the Reagan era, this narrative critique found its way into Carpenter's creative orbit, inspiring a production that evolved into a nuanced statement on capitalist ideologies.
The film's production itself bears compelling anecdotes. Operating within a modest budget of just over $3 million (it grossed just over $13 million), Carpenter navigated the eight-week shoot in locations around downtown Los Angeles, juxtaposing the growing homelessness problem against a backdrop of a bustling urban center. The socio-economic disparities mirrored within the film's narrative were a stark reflection of the real-world struggles, adding depth to the movie's thematic resonance.
One cannot overlook the casting brilliance in selecting "Hot Rod" Roddy Piper for the lead role of Nada. Normally with a Carpenter movie, staple Kurt Russel would have been the go-to guy but Piper's transition from professional wrestling to acting was a testament to Carpenter's keen eye for talent. His portrayal of the disillusioned drifter anchors the film, infusing it with the raw and often wry intensity and conviction required to confront the clandestine forces governing society. Perhaps the numerous clashes with the Vince McMahon's and Hulk Hogan's of the world helped shape his performance.
Also, we can not fail to mention the fight scene. Nearly an hour into the run-time, the gum-chewing, ass-kicking Roddy Piper engages the equally burly Keith David in one of the most ridiculous bouts of fisticuffs in movie history. The fight lasts for six minutes and purportedly serves no purpose; its incomprehensible duration is the joke, and in lieu of a punch line, Carpenter gives us punches. Lots of punches. It is totally irrational, and totally brilliant.
Moreover, the film's makeup, particularly the design of the aliens (by Carpenter's wife, Sandy King, no less) and the decision to utilize fight choreographer Jeff Imada to portray most of the aliens, stands as a testament to Carpenter's thrifty nature and resourcefulness in realizing his vision within budgetary constraints.
"They Live" embodies Carpenter's unique directorial stamp, weaving together social commentary, action, and sci-fi with a distinct flair. This synthesis of elements, coupled with its intriguing origins and resourceful production, sets the stage for a deeper exploration of the film's contemporary parallels and thematic nuances.
"They Live" persists as more than a mere '80s cult classic; its resonating themes mirror contemporary societal struggles, echoing the persisting perils of consumerism, political manipulation, and the ever-diminishing middle class.
The film's central narrative, where protagonists uncover a reality manipulated by subliminal messages, strikes an eerie chord in the age of information overload and media saturation. The commentary on consumer culture remains ever-relevant, critiquing the incessant push for materialism and the subtle yet pervasive influence of mass media on societal values.
Beyond its thematic relevance, Carpenter's incisive critique of political maneuvering resonates with today's landscape. The portrayal of the ruling elite's manipulation and the alien establishment's collusion with the human power structure prompts contemplation of present-day political allegiances and the consolidation of wealth and power.
"They Live" embodies pulpy qualities, leaning into its genre roots and exaggerated elements. The deliberate incorporation of over-the-top fight sequences, the pulpy dialogue, and the exaggerated appearance of the aliens serve not just as stylistic choices but as a statement, emphasizing the larger-than-life nature of societal manipulation.
Carpenter's intentional use of the B-movie aesthetic, with elements like the laughably exaggerated makeup for the aliens or the protracted fight scene, aligns with the film's broader thematic intentions. It invites audiences to engage not just with the narrative but with the underlying messages presented in an entertaining and accessible manner.
The film's portrayal of racial and social injustices, evident in the stark contrast between affluent, predominantly white settings and poverty-stricken, multi-ethnic neighborhoods, strikes a chord in today's conversations on gentrification and systemic inequality. The systemic biases highlighted in "They Live" serve as a mirror reflecting ongoing societal challenges.
"They Live" acts as a multifaceted critique, transcending its '80s origins to offer a layered discourse on contemporary issues. Carpenter's prescient exploration of societal flaws and his adherence to the pulpy essence serve as a segue into the film's initial reception and its enduring relevance in today's cultural tapestry.
Upon its release, and as with the majority of cult classics, "They Live" met with a mixed critical reception that questioned its production quality and thematic directness. Critics noted its B-movie aesthetic and thematic obviousness, perhaps missing the intricate layers within its apparent simplicity. While some brushed it off as a crude commentary, genre and cult enthusiasts lauded its transgressive nature and poignant critique of societal structures.
Yet, time has only heightened the film's significance. Its themes of societal manipulation, political corruption, and the impact of consumerism ring truer in an era dominated by digital media, political polarization, and economic disparity. The film's '80s context parallels today's world, prompting introspection into the continued relevance of its message and its undeniable impact on popular culture.
"They Live" endures not just as a cult classic but as a testament to Carpenter's visionary storytelling. Its legacy lies not solely in its entertaining aspects but in its ability to provoke critical thought and resonate with audiences across generations (including the powers that be at A Cult). The film's initial reception pales in comparison to its lasting influence and cultural relevance, firmly establishing its status as a film far ahead of its time.
"They Live," under John Carpenter's directorial finesse, emerges as a layered tapestry of socio-political commentary, entrenched within the trappings of pulp fiction and genre cinema. Its brazen narrative, critique of consumer culture, and reflection of contemporary societal parallels position it as a timeless allegory that invites viewers to peer beyond the facade of their reality, urging critical introspection into the world that surrounds them. As the film's cult status solidifies, its relevance only amplifies, inviting audiences to continue dissecting its multifaceted discourse on power, manipulation, and the quest for truth within a tangled web of modernity.
Not watched it yet? Go see it. Now. OBEY.
