Alien: Romulus

After a seven-year break, the latest Alien flick returns, and it ignites the brand’s ardent fanbase by conspicuously paying tribute to at least three distinct Alien films.

Alien: Romulus serves as a standalone interquel between the events of Alien (1979) and Aliens (1986) as Cailee Spaeny, David Jonsson, and a motley crew of youthful space colonists discover the most hideous extraterrestrial creature in the cosmos, while exploring a deserted space station. Under the direction of Fede Álvarez, who is famous for his work on the Evil Dead remake and Don’t Breathe, the heroes in Alien: Romulus eventually encounter the notorious Face-huggers on the station and must use all their resources to evade their impending demise. 

Rain (Cailee Spaeny) is deeply affected by the twin tragedies of loss and devotion. Out of the group, her character development is the least engaging, despite having the most developed personality. This is a space slasher, like other Alien flicks, thus there isn’t much room for character development because the heroes are killed off so quickly. The filmmakers are aware of this, which is why they give us just enough information to have us root for our heroes as they fight the terrifying Xenomorphs.

Cailee and Andy’s (David Jonsson) quirky and humorous friendship is endearing and innocent. The focus on their connection makes the film feel much more intimate for the audience and knowing the demands of audiences, allows Álvarez to serve them in a unique way. 

The first and most famous instalment in this series, Alien, directed by Ridley Scott, is famous for its dramatic and sombre tone. Then, it becomes a thrilling 80’s thriller, in James Cameron’s Aliens, the second most recognised film of all time.  The mythology and background of these horrific extraterrestrial beasts are further explored by Scott in his later entry, Prometheus. 

Álvarez crafts a terrifying and dramatic thriller brimming with thrilling action sequences that will cause you to jump out of your seat, by combining elements of all these three films. With other subtle nods to both Alien 3 (David Fincher’s directorial effort) and the nearly repulsive Alien: Resurrection, Alien: Romulus is a genuine mash-up of tribute and reflections on a remarkable fright-film series.

Cameron and Scott may now chest-burst with pride since their successor, Alien: Romulus, has made a triumphant return to form for the Alien franchise. Fans of the series will relish in this film, which boasts an amazing tonal mixing pot and excellent technical components.  

Bursting onto the big screen 2 August.

-Dirk Lombard Fourie