On release, Life was disappointing because it is too derivative of Alien and its impressive cast is wasted on thin characters, making the film feel like a generic effort. On rewatch, while those issues persist, the film manages to distinguish itself from its influences enough to be a satisfying sci-fi horror in its own right.
The visuals and sound design are impressive, with the cinematography depicting zero gravity in an immersive way and the score elevating otherwise underwhelming set pieces.…