Movies vs. Capitalism cover image

Movies vs. Capitalism

Alien (w/ Joe Mayall)

Jan 9, 2024
Author Joe Mayall joins hosts Rivka Rivera and Frank Cappello to discuss Ridley Scott's Alien as an allegory for the labor movement and the dangers of unchecked deregulation in the late '70s and early '80s. They also explore the themes of profit-seeking without morality, the portrayal of Ripley as a strong female character, and the historical treatment of workers in different phases of capitalism.
01:12:08

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Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • Alien serves as a warning against the erosion of organized labor and the dehumanizing effect of corporate power.
  • Sigourney Weaver's portrayal of Ellen Ripley challenges gender norms and asserts female strength and agency.

Deep dives

Alien: A Sci-Fi Film and a Warning About Capitalism

Alien, a groundbreaking sci-fi film released in 1979, not only delivers a captivating story, but also serves as a warning about the dangers of capitalism. The movie portrays a group of working-class individuals on a commercial spaceship who are sent on a mission by their corporate bosses to capture a deadly alien creature. The film highlights the relentless pursuit of profit at the expense of human lives, and the dehumanizing effect of corporate power. With its gritty portrayal of the spaceship and relatable characters, Alien taps into the fear and struggles faced by workers in a profit-driven society. It's a thought-provoking exploration of the consequences of unchecked capitalism.

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