Alien: Romulus: A Thrilling Fusion of New and Nostalgia

Revisiting the Iconic Alien Franchise

As a longtime fan of the Alien franchise (Alien is one of my favourite films), I’ve been eagerly anticipating the release of Alien: Romulus ever since I heard it was in the works.

Having recently re-watched the original trilogy on Disney+, the excitement and nostalgia have been building steadily.

The Enduring Legacy of the Original Films

The first two films in the franchise, Alien (1979) and Aliens (1986) are true masterpieces of science fiction horror.

Ridley Scott’s atmospheric and claustrophobic direction in the original Alien film created a sense of dread and unease that has stood the test of time.

The design of the Xenomorphs, with their horrifying aesthetic and unsettling movements, has become an iconic representation of humanity’s fear of the unknown.

And of course, Sigourney Weaver’s portrayal of Ellen Ripley solidified her as a trailblazing action heroine, paving the way for strong female protagonists in the genre.

In Aliens (1986), James Cameron’s high-octane sequel, the stakes were raised exponentially.

The film’s exploration of the colonial marines and their ill-fated mission provided a thrilling expansion of the Alien universe, while also showcasing another vulnerable and maternal side of Ripley’s character.

The exhilarating showdown with the Alien Queen remains one of the most memorable and adrenaline-fueled sequences in the entire franchise.

Even Alien 3 (1992), although not as popular with fans, offered a grim yet interesting and watchable take on the series.

Director David Fincher’s bleak vision, along with the unexpected demise of some beloved characters, lent a sense of weight and consequence to the narrative.

Now, with Alien: Romulus (2024) continuing the story in the space between these iconic films, I have been eagerly anticipating the next chapter.

Alien: Romulus: A Fresh Face in a Familiar World

Alien: Romulus is a masterful blend of nostalgia and innovation that will delight both seasoned Alien aficionados and newcomers to the franchise.

This film is undeniably a love letter to the original movies, capturing the essence of Ridley Scott’s iconic sci-fi horror while carving its own distinctive path.

The return of a familiar face from the original Alien universe is sure to thrill fans, adding an extra layer of excitement to the already gripping narrative.

The writing is outstanding, with a narrative that is both tight and expansive, allowing the characters to breathe and the story to unfold with deft precision.

A Visually Stunning Masterpiece

Visually, Alien: Romulus is a feast – the special effects are nothing short of spectacular, creating a believable and immersive world that is both beautiful and haunting.

The bleak and desolate landscape serves as a chilling backdrop to the terrifying creatures that lurk in the shadows.

And the alien threat is brought to life with a visceral and menacing realism.

The tension is palpable throughout and keeps viewers on the edge of their seats.

The special effects in Alien: Romulus are a standout feature, marking a return to the practical magic that first brought the Alien universe to life.

Director Fede Álvarez, known for his work on Don’t Breathe and Evil Dead, has collaborated with the original effects team from Aliens, bringing a wealth of experience and nostalgia to the project.

The Heart of the Film: Poignant Relationships

I believe the heart of the film lies in the poignant relationship between the protagonist Rain (Cailee Spaeny) and her “brother” Andy (David Jonsson), whose loving bond is portrayed with such tenderness and authenticity that it’s impossible not to be moved.

Their connection is the emotional core around which the story unfolds, and it’s this relationship that brings a tear to the eye in the most unexpected moments.

The film’s atmospheric score perfectly complements the on-screen action, while also paying homage to the iconic sounds of the original movies.

The much-talked-about third act of Alien: Romulus is a shocking, bold finale that will leave you breathless. No spoilers here.

A Standout Protagonist: Rain, the Relatable Heroine

The true standout, however, is the character of Rain played by Cailee Spaeny.

Portrayed with grit and determination, she is a refreshing departure from the classic Ripley archetype, offering a unique and compelling take on the female action hero.

While she undoubtedly shares the same survival instincts as Sigourney Weaver’s iconic Ripley, she embodies strength, and resilience and brings a fresh and authentic perspective to the role.

Her resourcefulness, unwavering love for her brother, and wish to see the sunrise which she dreams about, make her a truly compelling and unforgettable heroine.

Tapping into Primal Fears

Alien: Romulus not only pays homage to the iconic Alien franchise, but it also delves deep into our most primal fears, striking a chord that resonates with audiences on a visceral level.

At the heart of the film’s terror lies the Xenomorphs, the terrifying and relentless creatures that have been a source of dread for decades.

The way the film portrays these otherworldly beings is nothing short of chilling, leveraging our innate fear of the unknown and the unnatural.

The Xenomorphs’ ability to infiltrate, adapt, and ruthlessly hunt their prey taps into our deepest anxieties about the vulnerabilities of the human condition.

Alien: Romulus features a new creature but that is not the only threat in the film, as the characters also encounter a horde of face-huggers and Xenomorphs in the derelict space station.

These classic creatures retain their ability to instil fear and chaos, proving that the franchise can still deliver the scares that fans expect and enjoy.

The practical effects used to bring these creatures to life, a hallmark of director Fede Álvarez’s approach, contribute to the film’s tangible sense of dread.

But the film’s exploration of our fears doesn’t stop there. Alien: Romulus also delves into the sinister machinations of “The Company,” the shadowy corporation that has long sought to control and exploit the Xenomorphs for their own nefarious purposes.

Satisfyingly, Alien: Romulus answers a few questions posed in the previous films.

Conclusion: A New Classic in the Making

Overall. Alien: Romulus is a well-crafted piece of cinema that respects its roots while daring to explore new territory.

It’s a film that can blend the familiar with the new, the emotional with the thrilling, and introduce a protagonist who is as relatable as she is extraordinary.

Alien: Romulus has made a strong showing at the box office since its release on August 16, 2024, earning $108.2 million worldwide and comfortably surpassing its $80 million budget.

The film has garnered positive reviews and while there are no official plans for a sequel yet, the film’s open-ended conclusion suggests the possibility of future installments.

This is a not to be missed film that demands to be seen on the big screen, immersing you in a world of fear, wonder, and ultimately, hope.

Alien: Romulus is a new classic in the making that will appeal to both die-hard fans and those new to the Alien universe.