Counteracting all that is the persistent instinct of motherhood. Although Ripley jokes that she's the monster's "mommy," the bond remains, absurdly and movingly, intact. She may do battle against the patriarchal tyranny (the research ship's computer, unsubtly, is called "Father," and it's in the shape of a crucifix) of those who seek to turn their strength and beleaguered compassion into weapons of war, but it's a one-sided battle. What's more frightening is the depth and resilience of the maternal compulsion for like, and wish for death, she represents. "Who are you?" is the question she's most often asked. It's never answered , and despite this film's flaws, Alien Resurrection makes the query more compelling than ever.
