The “Alien” franchise has long been a cornerstone of sci-fi horror, with its unique blend of claustrophobic terror and intense action. With the latest installment, Alien: Romulus, directed by Fede Álvarez, the series aims to return to its roots while also exploring new dimensions of the terrifying universe that has captivated audiences for decades.
A Worthy Addition to the Franchise
Alien: Romulus has been hailed as one of the best entries in the series since Aliens (1986). Álvarez, known for his skill in horror with films like Evil Dead (2013), delivers a film that is both a homage to the original Alien (1979) and a fresh, intense experience. Set between the events of Alien and Aliens, Romulus effectively combines the slow-burn horror of Ridley Scott’s original with the action-packed intensity of James Cameron’s sequel.
Storyline and Characters
The story centers around Rain (Cailee Spaeny), a resourceful protagonist who finds herself in a nightmarish situation aboard a derelict space station. Rain is accompanied by her synthetic “brother,” Andy (David Jonsson), whose character adds a layer of emotional depth and complexity rarely seen in the franchise. Their relationship is at the heart of the film, providing a poignant counterbalance to the relentless horror unfolding around them.
The film is set on Jackson’s Star, a grimy, Soviet-esque mining colony that feels as oppressive as the lurking Xenomorphs. The new setting, combined with Álvarez’s meticulous attention to atmospheric detail, creates an environment that is as much a character as the human (and non-human) protagonists.
Visual and Practical Effects
One of the most striking aspects of Alien: Romulus is its visual presentation. Álvarez has masterfully recreated the tactile, gritty feel of the original films. The practical effects, animatronics, and CGI blend seamlessly to bring the terrifying Xenomorphs to life. The creature design, particularly in the film’s climactic scenes, is a testament to the craftsmanship behind the production, making every encounter with the aliens a nerve-wracking experience.
The film’s set design also deserves praise. The corridors of the space station are drenched in shadows, with every corner potentially hiding a deadly threat. This visual style harks back to the original Alien, where the ship itself felt like a labyrinthine death trap. Álvarez’s direction ensures that the audience feels the same sense of dread that made the first two films so memorable.
Critical Reception
Alien: Romulus has received largely positive reviews from critics, with many praising its return to the franchise’s horror roots. On Rotten Tomatoes, the film holds an impressive 82% rating, with critics lauding its ability to honor the original films while introducing new horrors. The consensus seems to be that Romulus successfully injects fresh blood into the series, making it a must-watch for fans and newcomers alike.
On Metacritic, the film scores a 63%, indicating generally favorable reviews. Critics have highlighted the film’s ability to balance fan service with new and innovative ideas. Some have noted that while the film treads familiar ground, it does so with a level of craft and care that elevates it above other recent entries in the series.
Audience Reception and Box Office Projections
Alien: Romulus is projected to perform well at the box office, with estimates suggesting an opening weekend gross between $28 million and $55 million. The film’s blend of nostalgic elements and fresh horror is expected to attract both longtime fans of the franchise and younger audiences who may be experiencing an Alien film in theaters for the first time.
Final Verdict
With Alien: Romulus, Fede Álvarez has crafted a film that stands as a worthy addition to the Alien franchise. It’s a movie that remembers what made the original films so iconic while confidently striking out on its own. The result is a tense, terrifying experience that will leave audiences on the edge of their seats.
Whether you’re a die-hard fan of the series or someone looking for a well-crafted horror film, Alien: Romulus is a must-see. It’s not just a return to form for the franchise; it’s a reminder of why the Alien series continues to be a towering presence in the world of sci-fi horror. With its strong performances, particularly from Cailee Spaeny and David Jonsson, and its stunning visual design, Alien: Romulus is set to become a classic in its own right.
For those wondering whether the Alien franchise still has what it takes to scare and thrill in equal measure, Romulus provides a resounding answer: absolutely.