![Steven Spielberg’s Insight Re-imagined the Main Foe in ‘Cowboys & Alians’ 2 l intro 1717010194](https://i0.wp.com/theubj.com/uae/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/l-intro-1717010194.jpg?w=1170)
A pivotal scene in the movie reveals a segment of Lonergan’s lost memories, where he uncovers that the mystery bracelet he wears is crucial for locating the extraterrestrials’ main ship. At this point, viewers are treated to the sight of a distinct, imposing alien that Lonergan had earlier scarred during his own capture and subsequent forced experimentation. Spielberg, according to Rosenberg, was the brain behind this particular villain, resulting in several iterations of its appearance to ensure it stood out as more threatening among its peers:
“One testament to Steven’s involvement was his conceptualization that the key alien enemy bear more human-like features with unique translucent sections on its body. This dominant ‘über-alien’ was to showcase a semi-transparent hide, resembling the texture of a soft-shelled crab. Steven consistently showed his innate understanding of what would resonate with the audience.”
The extraterrestrial beings demonstrated a raw aversion to injury while on Earth, and while the marks on most resembled a putrid yellow mold, the scars on the über-alien were vividly red. Its semi-transparent skin signified its superior rank — setting it apart from the rank-and-file aliens engaging humanity in combat. This über-alien was more reminiscent of humans, with some parts seemingly flesh-like and others distinctly alien, resembling “glass or ice or gelatin-y surface that merges into a drier texture” as per FX Guide.
Additionally, Rosenberg expressed his gratitude towards Howard and Spielberg for their pivotal guidance during the film’s development saying, “they continuously offered extensive insight,” and “actively participated in crafting the narrative thrust” from the outset, forging “Cowboys & Aliens” into the gripping action-packed film it became.
FAQ Section
What did Steven Spielberg contribute to the movie ‘Cowboys & Aliens’?
Steven Spielberg suggested that the main alien antagonist should be more human-like and feature distinctive translucent parts on its body, influencing its unique design to be more menacing.
Why were the scars on the über-alien red while the others were yellow?
The red scars on the über-alien signified its high-ranking status among the extraterrestrials, distinguishing its wounds from the yellow fungal-like scars of the other aliens.
How did Steven Spielberg and Ron Howard influence ‘Cowboys & Alians’?
Both Spielberg and Howard were involved from the beginning, providing significant input and guidance to help shape the direction of the story, making it the exciting action-adventure movie it is.