The Movievaures Time Machine: They Live (1988) – Still Relevant 40 Years Later?

Welcome back to The Movievaures Time Machine, where I revisit iconic films from the past to see if they still hold up today. This time, we’re heading back to the 80s with They Live, a cult classic directed by John Carpenter.

Before watching this film, I already knew it without actually knowing it—some of its most famous images have become deeply embedded in pop culture. The sunglasses revealing hidden messages, the eerie alien-like faces, and, of course, the legendary line: “I have come here to chew bubblegum and kick ass… and I’m all out of bubblegum.” But does this 1988 sci-fi thriller still hold up in 2025? Let’s find out.

Non-Spoiler Synopsis

They Live follows a drifter named Nada (played by Roddy Piper) who stumbles upon a pair of sunglasses that completely change his perception of the world. Through these special lenses, he discovers that the wealthy elite are actually sinister, skull-faced aliens who control humanity through subliminal messages hidden in advertisements, TV, and money. As he uncovers the truth, Nada joins a small resistance group trying to expose the conspiracy and fight back against the alien overlords.

It’s a simple yet incredibly powerful concept that critiques consumerism, capitalism, and media control—all through the lens of an 80s action sci-fi film.

A Look at the Movie

One of They Live‘s greatest strengths is its messaging. John Carpenter didn’t hold back in his critique of the system, and watching this movie in 2025, it still feels way too relevant. The idea of a hidden ruling class using media and wealth to manipulate the masses? Yeah… that hasn’t aged one bit. If anything, it’s even more impactful today.

Roddy Piper, better known as a wrestler than an actor, surprisingly holds his own as the lead. His performance isn’t groundbreaking, but it works for the film’s pulpy, B-movie energy. The atmosphere is classic Carpenter—simple but effective, with a haunting synth-heavy score that adds to the eerie dystopian vibe.

That being said, not everything aged well. The pacing feels noticeably slower by today’s standards, with drawn-out scenes that could have been tightened. And let’s talk about that fight scene—a nearly 10-minute-long, over-the-top brawl between Nada and Frank (Keith David) over putting on the sunglasses. It starts off fun, but after a few minutes, you’re left thinking, Okay, we get it. It’s iconic, yes, but definitely excessive.

Public Reception Then and Now

Upon its release in 1988, They Live was met with mixed reviews. Some critics dismissed it as another low-budget sci-fi flick, while others recognized its deeper themes. However, over time, it became a cult classic, particularly for its social commentary.

Today, it’s regarded as one of Carpenter’s best works, praised for its still-relevant themes and unforgettable imagery. The movie has been referenced countless times in pop culture, from memes to political discussions, proving its lasting impact.

The Movievaures Time Machine Verdict

This is a classic that I didn’t know, but in a way, I already did—its influence is everywhere. And after watching it, I completely understand why. The movie is straightforward yet brilliant in its execution, delivering a message that remains as strong as ever.

Of course, some things didn’t age perfectly. The fight scene is way too long, and the pacing might feel slow to modern audiences. But overall, They Live is still absolutely watchable and remains shockingly relevant almost 40 years later. And honestly? That’s kind of depressing. The issues Carpenter highlighted in 1988 haven’t gone away—they’ve just evolved.

Conclusion

If you’ve never seen They Live, I highly recommend it. It’s a must-watch for any sci-fi fan, not just for its entertainment value but also for its eerie reflection of society. And if you have seen it, maybe it’s time for a rewatch—just don’t expect that fight scene to go by any faster.

What do you think? Does They Live still hold up, or is it just another 80s relic? Let me know in the comments, and don’t forget to follow The Movievaures Time Machine on Instagram for more nostalgic film reviews!