Director Fede Álvarez’s upcoming Alien: Romulus has generated significant buzz, especially with the recent release of a gripping new image featuring Cailee Spaeny. The film is set to blend the atmospheric horror of Ridley Scott’s Alien with the intense action of James Cameron’s Aliens.
In a recent interview, Álvarez discussed how the movie transitions from the slow-burn terror that defined Scott’s original to the chaotic Xenomorph battles synonymous with Cameron’s sequel. He asks, To ask an Alien fan to choose between [Alien and Aliens] is a perverse question. So I thought, ‘How do I do both?’
This duality even extends to the set design, with areas reminiscent of both Nostromo and Hadley’s Hope.
The pressure on Álvarez is immense, considering the mixed reactions to Ridley Scott’s prequels, Prometheus and Alien: Covenant. Fans are eager for a fresh take that remains true to the franchise’s roots. The film aims to deliver just that, set between the events of 1979’s Alien and 1986’s Aliens.
The story, co-written by Rodo Sayagues, focuses on a group of young space colonizers who encounter the Xenomorph on a derelict space station. Álvarez assures fans that this installment respects established continuity while bringing a unique twist. Steve Asbell from 20th Century Studios praised the project’s compelling narrative and fresh characters.
Although we don’t see the xenomorph in motion yet, director Álvarez is already teasing its iconic presence. The film stars not only Spaeny but also actors like David Jonsson and Isabela Merced. Merced teases a particularly disturbing scene that may force viewers to look away.
Romulus isn’t directly connected to previous films but leverages aspects from them to craft its narrative, striking a balance between homage and innovation. This upcoming sci-fi/horror thriller aims to bring the franchise back to its roots. According to official logline:
The sci-fi/horror-thriller takes the phenomenally successful “Alien” franchise back to its roots: While scavenging the deep ends of a derelict space station, a group of young space colonizers come face to face with the most terrifying life form in the universe.
Produced by Ridley Scott through his Scott Free banner along with Momentum and 20th Century Studios, Alien: Romulus will hit theaters on August 16th. As we await more glimpses into this ambitious project, fans can only speculate how closely it will mirror its iconic predecessors.
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