Aliens: The Franchise
Alien is a sci-fi horror franchise centered on the film series. The movies depict Officer Ellen Ripley, played by Sigourney Weaver, and her battle with “the Alien,” or Xenomorph. The series began with Alien in 1979 (director Ridley Scott), followed by Aliens in 1986 (director James Cameron), Alien 3 in 1992 (director David Fincher), and Alien Resurrection in 1997 (director Jean-Pierre Jeunet). Ridley Scott also directed two prequels: Prometheus (2012) and Aliens: Covenant (2017). The fame of the first films invoked an entire franchise to take place, inspiring Kenner to create their famous Alien toy line. With such an expansive time frame, we are left wondering where in the franchise chronology the first Aliens action figures were made.
The Original Aliens Action Figures
The time frame of the Aliens toy line is not clear-cut. The first Aliens action figures were made in 1979 by Kenner, an American toy company renowned for their popular lines of Star Wars and Ghostbusters action figures. But, because of the mature content of the first Aliens movie, parents were not pleased with a children’s toy line being based on it. Due to this controversy, Kenner canceled the initial Aliens toy line.
Later, in 1987, the second Aliens movie was released. However, there was no new toy line for this movie. While also rated R, the second Aliens movie went from claustrophobic horror to action and violence, which was slightly more appealing to the average audience. Then, in 1992, 20th Century Fox released Aliens 3. Finally, Kenner was ready to give the Aliens toy line another shot. In this same year, Kenner released the Aliens toy line, but with much more success.
The Legacy of the Kenner Aliens Action Figures
Though Kenner discontinued the line in the late 90s, it has become a subject of nostalgia among collectors and fans. The appeal of these figures extends far beyond their historical value. Each figure is an artistic interpretation of the film’s characters and creatures, crafted with an attention to detail that mirrors the dedication and passion of the franchise’s creators.
Despite the figures’ age, they have maintained their status as coveted collectibles. The durability and quality of these action figures allow them to endure the test of time. Today, they continue to bring joy to new and long-standing fans.
A Cherished Collectible
In conclusion, the first Aliens action figures were born in 1979, and were re-released after negative reception in 1992. They are a testament to the enduring appeal of the franchise. They are tangible representations of the iconic characters and scenes from the films, making them cherished keepsakes for any series fan. These figures, now vintage, continue to draw admiration and demand from collectors worldwide, solidifying their place in action figure history.
Wheeljack’s Lab proudly celebrates the legacy and enduring fascination of these cherished pieces of pop culture history with an extensive range of vintage toys, including those from the Aliens action figure line.
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About the Author
Author: Chris Ingledue
Contact: email
Bio: I am the founder and owner of Wheeljack’s Lab pop Culture and Toy Shop. My vision has always been to reunite customers with their favorite childhood toys and pop culture, triggering fond memories, and reigniting their imaginations. Every day, I work in the “lab” where it’s Christmas 365 days a year. I scour the internet, like when we had the Sears Catalog of yesteryear, for the next great treasure. Then, I await the arrival of the postman as if he were Santa Claus himself and helping collectors worldwide with their versions of Christmas. Every day as a vintage toy buyer is an absolute joy!