While streaming has led to some problems in the realm of physical media and constant reversion of rights between different services, there are also some benefits. One such positive development is the release of an entirely different version of David Fincher’s Alien 3. The way that certain directors and films have been forced to compromise their creative vision for one reason or another, whether that be studio interference or prior poor critical reception, has now led streaming services to release and promote extended or lost cuts of films. Now, the frequently discussed assembly cut of Alien 3 is finally available on streaming.
Interestingly, the release of this version of the film came with little to no fanfare. The Alien 3 Assembly Cut dropped on the streaming service quietly, with subscribers pointing out the fact that it was now available to watch through their own posts on social media. This isn’t a version with just a few subtle changes either; the Alien 3 Assembly cut runs at two hours and 25 minutes compared to the theatrical cut, which is one hour and 54 minutes long. What makes this cut so interesting is the development behind it, which came from the turbulent production of Alien 3.
Following Fincher’s clashes with the studio during the production of Alien 3, which included constant script changes and budget cuts, the filmmaker (rightfully) refused to be part of any sort of director’s cut for the home release of the film. Instead, an Assembly Cut of the movie was made in place of a director’s cut, which included deleted scenes and extended sequences, along with different scenes put into place that have entirely different plot implications than what had happened in the theatrical version. There are several moments in the theatrical cut that make no sense due to plot holes, and much of this is explained in this longer assembly cut.
Sigourney Weaver and Charles Dance in David Fincher’s 1992 film Alien 320th Century Fox
The Alien franchise has had its fair share of alternate versions, with a director’s cut of the original film, as well as a special edition of James Cameron’s sequel Aliens. However, the Alien 3 Assembly Cut is especially interesting because it is often the preferred version for those familiar with all the films. It was disappointing that a filmmaker who would eventually become as renowned as Fincher was stifled during a production that occurred very early on in his career. Had the filmmaker been given more creative control, it’s not hard to believe that the final product would be closer to what can be seen in the Assembly Cut.
After this somewhat disastrous directorial debut, Fincher would go on to make classic films such as Se7en, Fight Club, The Social Network, and so much more. While Fincher never got to see his true vision for Alien 3 fulfilled, the Assembly Cut is as close as we’ll get to it, with expansion on character development, especially for Sigourney Weaver’s iconic character Ripley. Originally, this version of Alien 3 was only available in a special Blu-ray box set. Overall, Alien 3 Assembly Cut is an exciting addition to the HBO Max library, with the streaming service now offering this better-received version to a much wider audience than it had in the past.
Release Date
May 22, 1992
Runtime
114 minutes