Species II

Species II is a 1998 American science fiction horror sequel to 1995’s wildly

successful Species. The movie continues on the trajectory outlined in the first film, and

introduces a whole new aspect of horror to the franchise. With a compelling narrative

twist to an already interesting plot, Species II touches upon themes of humanity versus

alien influences, the struggle for survival, and the moral implications of scientific

experimentation. Directed by Peter Medak, it stars Natasha Henstridge,

Michael Madsen, and Marg Helgenberger in leading roles.

Continuing from where Species left off, Species II features Henstridge reprising her

role as the human-alien hybrid Sil. After having been brutally killed in the previous

movie, Sil's DNA is taken and used to create a clone, now named Eve, lives under

strict supervision and containment by the government. Henstridge's performance

manages to highlight both Eve's human intelligence and the animalistic,

The narrative of Species II incorporates the all-too-real human desire to discover life

beyond our planet. When an ambitious astronaut named Patrick, played by Justin

Lazard, returns from a mission to Mars carrying alien DNA, the nightmare of the

first movie becomes more tangible and immediate. Unlike the alien in the first

Species film, Patrick is well aware of the havoc the alien DNA within him can wreak

upon Earth and seems fascinated, even overjoyed, at the thought, making him a more

The rest of the movie centers around containing the burgeoning alien population and

preventing a full-blown alien invasion, with plenty of horror and thriller elements

sprinkled throughout. As Patrick's alien instincts start causing chaos, he and Eve are

inevitably drawn towards each other, creating a nerve-racking environment of

Species II sees the return of the tough-talking, no-nonsense mercenary Press

Lennox, played by Michael Madsen. Now working alongside Dr. Laura Baker, played by

Marg Helgenberger, Lennox brings elements of action and bravery to this horror

narrative – keeping the audience guessing and on their toes. Madsen and

Helgenberger’s performances give us characters that are authentic, gritty, and at

times comically exasperated with their extraordinary predicament, providing a

necessary counterpoint to the otherworldly terror running rampant.

A stand-out feature in Species II is its special effects, showcasing the hybrid

alien-human entities in a manner that is grotesquely fascinating. The film does not

shy away from showcasing the horrifying effects of alien impregnation and

transformation, reminding the audience of the deadly, mutating power of the alien

DNA. With authentic prosthetics, moving tentacles, and explosive birthing scenes, the

For fans of the first movie and the science fiction horror genre, Species II offers a

heady mix of suspense, thrilling action, and shocking visuals. Its exploration

of the human struggle against an invasive alien species – literalized through the

personal horror of body invasion – keeps audiences intrigued and fearful of what

might unfold next. While depicting the terror of an alien invasion, the movie also

touches upon moral and ethical dilemmas involved in scientific advancement and

Underlining Medak's direction is a chilling and atmospheric musical score by Edward Shearmur, which aides in creating tension and enhancing the scary scenes. The movie combines elements of survival, menace, and the desperate struggle to

prevent a deadly, encroaching invasion, making for an engrossing viewing experience.

In conclusion, Species II is an engaging, horrifyingly enticing sequel in the

Species franchise. It continues the narrative from the first film while introducing a

new, more immediate threat, and fear factor. With strong performances and a

riveting storyline, Species II is a compelling watch for those who enjoy a hefty dose of