The Unusual Companion: Cat Jonesy on the Nostromo in Alien

In the 1979 science fiction horror film Alien, the cat named Jonesy serves multiple purposes on board the Nostromo. This article explores why a simple cat became an integral part of the story, enhancing both its tension and emotional depth.

Purposes of the Cat on Board the Nostromo

The primary role of Jonesy on the Nostromo is to provide companionship and morale for the crew during their long journey through deep space. Cats are well-known for their calming presence, and having Jonesy on board helps to create a sense of normalcy in the otherwise sterile and hostile environment of space travel. This small comfort brings a touch of familiarity and relatability to the characters, making them more human and accessible to the audience.

Moreover, Jonesy plays a significant role in the film's tension and horror. The presence of the cat heightens the suspense, especially as the alien begins to hunt the crew. Jonesy's uncanny ability to sense danger adds to the eerie atmosphere, and his interactions with the crew emphasize the gravity of the situation. Ultimately, Jonesy becomes a symbol of survival and resilience, as he is one of the few to survive the events of the film. This role is particularly poignant as it serves as a reminder of the fragility of human life in the face of the unknown.

The Practical and Dramatic Functions of the Cat

The inclusion of a cat on the Nostromo provides the film with several practical and dramatic functions. First, the crew of the Nostromo are not depicted as shiny, futuristic characters like those seen in Star Trek. Instead, they are more akin to space truckers - badly paid, badly treated, and not necessarily comfortable in their roles.

Cats have a long history of being carried on long sea voyages to control the rat population. The presence of a cat on the Nostromo could indicate one of two things: either there is still a rat problem, or the company does not care what you bring onboard as long as the cargo makes it home. Either way, it underscores the Company's disregard for the crew's well-being in favor of the cargo's importance.

The cat also provides several opportunities to increase dramatic tension. For instance, the cat's presence confuses the motion trackers, adding an extra layer of complexity to the story. Additionally, when Brett goes looking for the cat, his casual call of "Heeeeere kittykittykitty!" sets into motion a chain of events that ultimately leads to his demise. This moment not only ups the ante for the story but also adds a layer of tragedy and irony to the narrative.

The Emotional Impact on Ripley

Ripley's successful rescue of Jonesy is a significant moment in the film. It does not only serve to provide a moment of comfort for Ripley but also offers a small consolation after experiencing a series of traumatic events. This moment helps bring some closure for the audience, providing a sense of resolution and hope amidst the chaos and horror of the alien encounter.

It's worth noting that Jonesy might have been a ship's cat rather than belonging to Ripley. Regardless of his exact status, his survival and rescue by Ripley symbolize the enduring spirit and resilience of the crew in the face of the alien threat. This moment adds a layer of emotional depth to the film, making the characters more relatable and the story more compelling.

In conclusion, the inclusion of a cat on the Nostromo in Alien serves to enhance the film's emotional and dramatic aspects, providing both practical functions and deeper symbolic meaning. The cat becomes an integral part of the story, reinforcing the themes of companionship, survival, and the adversities faced by humanity in the face of the unknown.