Nada (Roddy Piper) portrays a transient worker navigating the economic hardships of a recession. He discovers a cache of sunglasses that, when worn, reveal a starkly different reality. Hidden messages are pervasive, and some individuals appear distinctly non-human. Confronted with this truth, Nada arms himself, determined to resist and liberate humanity.
They Live, released in 1988, initially had a limited impact, and was not theatrically released in Sweden. Its audience grew on the home video market, appreciating John Carpenter’s impactful and enduring action film. The film’s themes continue to resonate, exemplified by recent online discussions drawing parallels between contemporary figures and the film’s alien antagonists, visible only through the special sunglasses. They Live presents a concise narrative delivered with a brisk pace. The film’s social commentary is sharp, and its aesthetics are both stylish and well-executed.
The lead role is performed by Roddy Piper, a pioneer in transitioning from professional wrestling to a prominent acting role. While Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson is perhaps the most recognizable example of this transition today, Piper’s portrayal of the stoic and assertive Nada is perfectly suited to the character.
Keith David, a frequent collaborator with Carpenter, delivers a compelling performance as Nada’s friend, and his on-screen chemistry with Piper is a highlight. The extended fight sequence between them, while brutal at times, is a critical component of the film’s narrative. Carpenter’s distinctive score effectively complements and unifies the film’s elements.
Studio S is commendable for its commitment to releasing classic films. However, a limitation of this release of They Live is the 2.0 audio track. While the visual presentation has been cleaned up, the image quality remains somewhat soft. The release includes a substantial amount of bonus material, including insightful documentaries. For a deeper understanding of the film’s production, the commentary track featuring Piper and Carpenter is highly recommended.
In conclusion, while They Live may not be a conventional awards contender, it remains an engaging dystopian film with enduring relevance. The film’s themes continue to surface in contemporary discussions, demonstrating its lasting impact over three decades after its release. Despite its initial theatrical underperformance, They Live has achieved a lasting legacy.
