While Sigourney Weaver is iconic as the star of the Alien movies, a surprising secret ingredient played a vital role in the original film: KY Jelly. This unexpectedly slick technique is being carried on in the new series, Alien: Earth, which employs the same method for some of its creature effects.
During a set visit for Alien: Earth, Tim Domett from Wētā Workshop, who is the creatures episodic supervisor, revealed the unusual inspiration they took from the 1979 classic. The original Alien’s use of a common personal lubricant for specific practical effects has been adopted for the television series.
“We looked back to the initial *Alien* film for direction in establishing the look and desired result for our creatures,” Domett explained to GameSpot and other media outlets during the tour of the set. He gestured towards the Xenomorph model and the viscous, saliva-like substance oozing from its mouth. “They famously used KY Jelly. We do, too. We explore some alternatives but, primarily, use substances that are safe, especially when used near the actors’ faces. Given the Xenomorph is frequently looming over them, and that fluid is often dripping onto their costumes, it’s vital that it’s readily cleaned.”
“So, there’s no complex formula, just the commercially available product,” he continued. “We might dilute it slightly for when it’s needed for the mouth drip, or if a touch of blue is needed for visual effect… it’s certainly been a consistently gooey undertaking for our team.”
Alien: Earth premieres on FX on August 12th, with subsequent episodes available weekly on Hulu during its initial eight-episode run. Explore further details concerning the program, including the series’ place within the overall Alien narrative, the impact of COVID on its production, and the thoughts of the lead actress regarding her Ripley-inspired role.