Tori Spelling Reveals Worst On-Set Experience With Evil Alien Conquerors Director
Tori Spelling detailed a volatile professional relationship with director Chris Matheson on the set of the 2003 sci-fi comedy Evil Alien Conquerors, claiming the experience was the worst of her career. Speaking on the August 9 episode of Stephen Baldwin’s “One Bad Movie” podcast, Spelling alleged that Matheson’s constant demands for retakes and critical delivery notes left her feeling demoralized and unwanted on set.
For Spelling, the role was intended as a strategic pivot. Having spent a decade as Donna Martin on Beverly Hills, 90210, she viewed the “big furry unibrow and furry feet” prosthetic requirements of the film as a way to distance herself from the persona of being Aaron Spelling’s daughter. Instead, the production became a lesson in professional misalignment.
The Conflict Over Comedic Delivery and Direction
Spelling told Baldwin that the conflict began immediately upon her arrival on set. She recalled an environment where she felt unable to deliver a single line without Matheson interrupting to ask her to do it again. According to Spelling, Matheson frequently requested that she give “just a little bit less” in her delivery—a note she found contradictory given the “wacky” nature of the sci-fi comedy. This clash of styles created a psychological burden that Spelling says persisted throughout the shoot.
The actress contrasted this experience with her previous work, asserting that while she understood nuanced notes in drama, her comedic timing had previously been praised. She claimed that regardless of the scene’s scale—whether it involved two actors or twenty—Matheson would consistently call “Cut!” and address her specifically in front of the entire crew. Spelling described the experience as “shuddering” and stated she eventually felt like a “puddle” every day she reported to work.
In this instance, the tension escalated to the point where Spelling’s agent requested she be uncredited in the final cut of the film.
Matheson’s Response and the Project’s Commercial Fate
Chris Matheson, known for his work on the Bill & Ted franchise, provided a different perspective when contacted by People. Matheson stated, “I’m sorry she felt that way. I like Tori personally.”
The commercial outcome of Evil Alien Conquerors mirrored the instability of its production. According to industry distribution records, the film skipped a theatrical release in the United States entirely, moving straight to DVD.
The Business of the ‘Straight Offer’ and Brand Pivot
Spelling’s admission that she received a “straight offer” for the role underscores the influence of legacy and name recognition in casting. Spelling admitted that by the end of filming, she was convinced Matheson “hated” her, leading her to tell the director to “just fire me and recast.”
Looking back, Spelling noted that while she believes her performance in the film is “fine,” she regrets not being able to do more with the role due to the restrictive direction.
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