On July 1, 1979, the iconic science fiction horror film "Alien" was released in the United States. Directed by Ridley Scott and starring Sigourney Weaver, Tom Skerritt, Veronica Cartwright, Harry Dean Stanton, John Hurt, Ian Holm, and Yaphet Kotto, the film follows the crew of the commercial space tug Nostromo as they investigate a distress signal on an uncharted moon and inadvertently bring a deadly extraterrestrial creature aboard their ship.

"Alien" was a groundbreaking film in many ways. It introduced audiences to the now-famous xenomorph, a terrifying alien creature designed by Swiss artist H.R. Giger. The film's tagline, "In space, no one can hear you scream," perfectly captured the isolation and terror experienced by the Nostromo's crew as they battled the alien in the confines of their ship.

Sigourney Weaver's portrayal of Ellen Ripley, the film's protagonist, was also significant. Ripley became one of the first strong female leads in a science fiction film, paving the way for future iconic characters like Sarah Connor in "The Terminator" series.

"Alien" was a critical and commercial success, grossing over $100 million worldwide and receiving an Academy Award for Best Visual Effects. The film's success spawned a franchise that includes three direct sequels, two prequels, and two crossover films with the "Predator" franchise.

The legacy of "Alien" extends far beyond its initial release. The film's influence can be seen in countless science fiction and horror films that followed, and it remains a classic of both genres. Its impact on popular culture is undeniable, with references to the film and its iconic alien creature appearing in various forms of media, from movies and television shows to video games and comic books.