At San Diego Comic-Con, Disney and its 20th Century Studios division showcased their latest project, Alien: Romulus, with a creative and engaging panel despite not having a major blockbuster to promote. The presentation included dramatic elements such as red strobe lights and a staged death scene with a “chest burster,” which set a thrilling tone for the audience.
Additionally, video messages from renowned filmmakers like Ridley Scott and Guillermo del Toro added a special touch to the event, enhancing the appeal of the movie’s preview clips.
The panel also distributed rubber alien “face huggers” to the 6,500 attendees, a gesture that created buzz and photo opportunities, boosting the film’s promotional impact. Alien: Romulus marks the first new installment in the Alien franchise since 2017’s Alien: Covenant and is the first film released under Disney’s ownership of Fox, following their acquisition in 2019.
Directed by Fede Álvarez, known for his work on lower-budget horror films such as Don’t Breathe, this film introduces fresh faces in the cast and represents a new direction for the series.
Álvarez, who directed Alien: Romulus, acknowledged the immense pressure of working on a beloved franchise but found relief and inspiration on set. The practical and immersive environment of the film’s set helped him overcome his anxieties.
The director described the experience of working on the film as emotionally intense, especially given the frequent death scenes and the close bonds formed among the cast members, which made parting with those leaving the production difficult.
The film aimed to honor the legacy of previous installments by incorporating original designs and hiring veterans such as Shane Mahan, who contributed to the alien queen in James Cameron’s Aliens.
Álvarez’s creative process involved a great deal of self-doubt, but he used this to drive his efforts and earn the trust of his cast. The director’s passion for the franchise and commitment to delivering a high-quality film resonated with the actors, who appreciated his dedication and enthusiasm.
Álvarez expressed his desire to create a transformative experience for audiences, reflecting on the elusive nature of achieving such a cinematic impact. He emphasized the importance of giving their all to produce a film that fans would truly appreciate. This ethos drove the production, with the director and his cast striving to deliver a movie that honors the franchise’s legacy while also offering something new and exciting.
