Alien: Romulus – A thrilling return to the franchise
A new chapter in the Alien saga
One of the most iconic creatures in cinematic history has made a triumphant return. Fede Alvarez‘s “Alien: Romulus” has finally been unveiled to the press, and the initial reactions are overwhelmingly positive. Critics are praising its terrifying scares, practical effects, and stellar cast. Many agree that Alvarez has delivered one of the best entries in the 45-year-old franchise, which began with Ridley Scott‘s “Alien” in 1979.
A roller coaster of horror and gore
Germain Lussier described “Alien: Romulus” as a “bonkers roller coaster ride” that draws from the previous six Alien movies to tell a focused, mostly standalone story filled with “glorious gore and scares.” He noted that the film improves as it progresses, culminating in a phenomenal third act. Alien: Romulus
“It gets better as it goes along, ending with a phenomenal big swing of a third act.”
High praise for sound design and practical effects
Jazz Tangcay highlighted the film’s sound design and world-building, emphasizing the effectiveness of its practical effects. Tangcay mentioned that the film’s realism was so intense it induced nightmares. Alien: Romulus
“The practical effects are so good that the film gave me nightmares.”
A gripping and bleak experience
Courtney Howard described “Alien: Romulus” as “gnarly, gripping, and gorgeously bleak.” She praised the film’s innovative approach, which subtly plays the greatest hits of the franchise. Howard also commended the performances of Cailee Spaeny and David Jonsson, who dominate the screen. Alien: Romulus
“Innovatively delivering smart, savvy stuff, subtly playing the greatest hits.”
A perfect homage to the original
Tessa Smith noted that “Alien: Romulus” pays perfect homage to the original, using practical effects whenever possible. She mentioned that the film starts slow but picks up pace, keeping viewers on the edge of their seats until the very end. Alien: Romulus
“Once it gets going, you will be on the edge of your seat until the very end!”
Stellar performances and a stunning third act
Many critics have praised the performances of David Jonsson and Cailee Spaeny in the latest Alien installment. The third act of the film has also received significant attention for its intensity and emotional stakes. Alien: Romulus
“Riveting from start to finish with surprising emotional stakes and an absolutely stunning third act.”
A standalone sequel with a fresh perspective
“Alien: Romulus”, produced by Ridley Scott, is a standalone sequel set between the events of “Alien” (1979) and James Cameron‘s “Aliens” (1986). The film centers on a group of young space colonists, led by Spaeny’s character, Rain, who accept a mission to scavenge a derelict space station. Unbeknownst to them, the station is home to the eponymous creature. The cast also includes Archie Renaux, Isabela Merced, Spike Fearn, and Aileen Wu. Alien: Romulus
Ridley Scott’s endorsement
Scott, who directed the prequel movies “Prometheus” and “Alien: Covenant”, worked closely with Alvarez on developing the story for “Alien: Romulus”. He has praised Alvarez for injecting new life into the franchise.
“Fede is a surge of energy, and I had to step back and let him do it.”
A promising future for the franchise
Scott expressed hope that Alvarez has more stories up his sleeve, believing that “Alien: Romulus” will do well. He described Alvarez as having a “streak of brilliance.”
“I hope Fede’s got another one up his sleeve because I think this is going to do really well.”
Final thoughts
“Alien: Romulus” opens in theaters nationwide on April 16. The film has already generated significant buzz, with many critics praising its blend of horror and action, practical effects, and strong performances. Whether you’re a longtime fan of the franchise or a newcomer, “Alien: Romulus” promises to be a thrilling cinematic experience. Alien: Romulus
“Has Fede Álvarez saved the Alien film franchise with “Alien: Romulus”? Yeah, with style and solid scares.”
For more first reactions and to see the trailer, check out the links provided.