Alien: Romulus (2024)

Directed by Fede Álvarez
Starring Cailee Spaeny, David Jonsson, Archie Renaux, Isabela Merced, Spike Fearn, and Aileen Wu

The latest installment in the iconic Alien franchise, Alien: Romulus, has finally landed. Available now in a digital edition with bonus features and set for a physical release on December 3, this chapter attempts to tread the fine line between nostalgic homage and original storytelling. While the film delivers its signature xenomorphic thrills, it stumbles in areas that longtime fans may find frustrating.

A Bold Setup with Echoes of the Past

Set two decades after the events of the original Alien (1979), the story follows Rain (Cailee Spaeny), an orphaned miner toiling in the colony of Jackson’s Star. Rain’s existence is grim, dominated by corporate exploitation and indentured servitude. Her only solace is Andy, a quirky android programmed by her late father to act as a brother. Rain and her friends hatch a daring plan to escape their bleak lives by stealing cryostasis chambers from a derelict Weyland-Yutani space station.

Their goal? To embark on a nine-year journey to the promised refuge of Yvaga. But, as fans of the franchise would expect, the abandoned station harbors dark secrets—namely, the ever-terrifying xenomorphs.

The Horror Resurfaces

The core of Alien: Romulus is built around the franchise’s trademark elements: claustrophobic corridors, high-stakes survival, and the monstrous xenomorphs. The station itself is a marvel of design, blending decayed futurism with eerie remnants of Weyland-Yutani’s experiments. From conveyor belts to cable cars, the environment is a labyrinth of danger.

However, the ease with which Rain’s group infiltrates the station raises eyebrows. Wouldn’t Weyland-Yutani have implemented stringent quarantines after previous xenomorphic disasters? This plot hole is emblematic of the film’s tendency to prioritize action over logic.

Easter Eggs and Overreliance on Nostalgia

Director Fede Álvarez incorporates numerous callbacks to the earlier films, including recycled dialogue and visual cues. While some fans may appreciate these as Easter eggs, others might view them as an overreliance on nostalgia. A particularly polarizing moment involves the android Rook, whose design mimics the late Ian Holm’s Ash from the original film. Achieved through a mix of animatronics and CGI, this choice toes the line between homage and uncanny valley.

The soundtrack, composed by Benjamin Wallfisch, also nods to franchise history, weaving in motifs from Jerry Goldsmith’s and James Horner’s iconic scores. Even Wagner’s Rheingold makes an appearance, adding operatic grandeur to the film’s climax.

Strengths and Weaknesses

Alien: Romulus succeeds in maintaining the franchise’s chilling atmosphere. The xenomorphs are as terrifying as ever, and the film introduces a new stage in their lifecycle that is both grotesque and fascinating. The performances, particularly by Cailee Spaeny and David Jonsson, anchor the narrative with emotional depth. Rain’s bond with Andy adds a layer of humanity often absent in sci-fi horror.

However, the film falters in its final act. The climactic “boss battle” feels unearned, echoing the divisive third act of Alien: Resurrection. Furthermore, the narrative’s reliance on familiar beats leaves little room for innovation. It’s a collage of past successes rather than a fresh vision.

A Mixed Legacy

As a standalone entry, Alien: Romulus is an engaging sci-fi thriller with plenty of thrills and chills. For longtime fans, though, it might feel like a missed opportunity. The film leans heavily on the franchise’s established formula, offering a satisfying—if overly familiar—experience.

Ultimately, Alien: Romulus serves as a reminder of the series’ enduring appeal, even as it struggles to break free from its own shadow. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or a newcomer, this chapter is worth a watch—just don’t expect it to reinvent the wheel.

Your Turn: What Did You Think?

Have you seen Alien: Romulus? Did it live up to your expectations, or did it fall short? Share your thoughts in the comments below, and let’s dissect the latest addition to the Alien saga together!