A weekend of loss -- Dan O'Bannon and Brittany Murphy

This weekend, two film industry professionals were taken from us. One was a creative genius behind one of the most critically acclaimed science-fiction films of the 20th century. The other one was a quirky talent in the prime of her life. Whatever anyone's opinion may be and whatever any news reports may acknowledge, both losses were untimely.

Screenwriter Dan O'Bannon (1946-2009) gave us that claustrophobic space symphony known as Alien. The art of suspense is all but gone from cinema nowadays, and witnessing tension without cheap gore and a proper CGI overdose is a rare occurrence. Every now and then, a television channel plays Alien; every now and then, I sit down and watch it, from the first shot of the Nostromo to the ultimate showdown for guts and glory. The relatable characters, ominous moments and subtle pacing always shine through. We know that they will shine on.

Brittany Murphy (1977-2009) was an actress who had worked in various genres over the course of a very young career. From Clueless to Sin City, from 8 Mile to Don't Say a Word, she would leave a distinct impression of both sweetness and darkness with each part she played. It is what made her unique. Typing her year of birth and year of death and reading about the tragedy earlier was bizarre, to say the least; learning about someone that young having passed away certainly brings life into perspective. Murphy will be missed.

R.I.P. to the writer and the lady.