Fede Álvarez’s much-anticipated film Alien: Romulus premiered in Los Angeles on Monday night, generating immediate buzz on social media. This eighth installment in the Alien franchise is set between Ridley Scott’s 1979 Alien and James Cameron’s 1986 sequel Aliens.
The movie centers on a group of young colonists who discover a derelict space station and face the terror of the franchise’s iconic alien creature. The cast includes Cailee Spaeny, David Jonsson, Archie Renaux, Isabela Merced, and Spike Fearn, with Scott, Michael Pruss, and Walter Hill producing.
Originally intended as a Hulu release, the film was shifted to a theatrical release during principal photography, a move that Álvarez welcomed. This decision aligns with the studio’s confidence in the film’s potential. Alien: Romulus is set to hit theaters widely on August 16, and early reactions from the premiere have been varied, with critics sharing their initial impressions on social media.
Positive reactions highlight the film’s respect for the franchise’s legacy while bringing fresh elements to the table. Reviewers praised the film for its striking visuals, inventive horror, and effective scares, with standout performances by Spaeny and Jonsson. Some described the movie as a thrilling, breathtaking experience that pays homage to past films while introducing new twists, making it a standout summer release.
Conversely, some critics found the film’s approach less compelling. Opinions varied from seeing it as a nostalgic rehash to feeling that it lacked depth and originality. Certain reviews critiqued it for relying too heavily on familiar tropes and failing to provide a meaningful departure from previous installments. The mixed reactions reflect a divide between those who appreciate its homage to the series and those who see it as a missed opportunity.
Despite the differing views, many agree that Alien: Romulus is visually impressive and contains some memorable moments, particularly in its intense third act. The film is noted for its effective use of horror elements and impressive technical achievements, even if it doesn’t completely reinvent the franchise’s formula.
Alien: Romulus is shaping up to be a notable entry in the Alien series, offering both familiar thrills and new experiences. With its official release approaching, it remains to be seen how it will be received by the broader audience and how it will compare to its celebrated predecessors in the franchise.
