Alien Romulus (2024) Review: A Chilling Return to Form
Introduction
Fede Álvarez’s Alien Romulus (2024) is a thrilling return to the roots of the Alien franchise. Combining the claustrophobic terror of Ridley Scott’s 1979 original with Álvarez’s own signature tension-building, this installment delivers a satisfying blend of atmospheric horror and pulse-pounding action. Set in 2179, two years after Aliens, the film takes us on a nightmarish journey with colonists aboard the spacecraft Romulus as they encounter the galaxy’s deadliest predator.
Plot Overview
The plot revolves around a group of colonists traveling to terraform a distant planet. Their mission takes a deadly turn when they respond to a distress signal from a nearby moon. What begins as a rescue operation quickly spirals into a desperate struggle for survival against a relentless xenomorph threat. The tension steadily builds as the crew battles both internal conflicts and external horrors, making for an engaging watch.
Directorial Choices
Álvarez expertly balances suspense with brutal action sequences. His direction highlights the eerie silence of space, using long, tension-filled shots to build dread before unleashing terror in bursts of chaotic violence. By leaning into practical effects and restrained CGI, Álvarez recaptures the gritty, lived-in feel of the original films while adding a contemporary edge. The decision to focus more on character-driven storytelling adds depth, ensuring each death has weight.
Cast and Performances
- Anya Taylor-Joy as Dr. Elara Vance: Taylor-Joy is magnetic as the film’s lead, bringing a mix of vulnerability and steely resolve reminiscent of Sigourney Weaver’s Ellen Ripley.
- John David Washington as Captain Marcus Reed: Washington excels as the hardened leader, his performance underscored by moments of quiet humanity.
- Mads Mikkelsen as Dr. Henrik Turing: Mikkelsen’s portrayal of a morally ambiguous scientist is layered, keeping the audience guessing about his true intentions.
- Zazie Beetz as Engineer Maya Okoye: Beetz injects humor and resourcefulness into the narrative, providing a refreshing counterpoint to the tension.
- Barry Keoghan as Private Sean O’Neill: Keoghan’s jittery portrayal brings a nervous energy that heightens the film’s unpredictability.
- Jared Harris as The Romulus A.I. (voice): Harris lends an unsettling calmness to the ship’s artificial intelligence, which gradually reveals sinister undertones.
Influences and Inspirations
Álvarez clearly draws from both the original Alien and James Cameron’s Aliens. The film’s pacing mirrors the slow-burn tension of Scott’s classic, while its action sequences pay homage to Cameron’s more militaristic approach. However, Álvarez also infuses the film with nods to The Thing and his own work in Don’t Breathe, particularly in the claustrophobic setting and the emphasis on survival horror.
Comparison to Previous Works
Compared to his previous films, Álvarez’s direction in Alien Romulus shows a refinement in balancing horror and character development. While Don’t Breathe thrived on its minimalistic setup, Romulus expands that tension onto a much larger scale. Yet, Álvarez maintains the personal stakes that made his earlier work so effective. This film feels like a culmination of his experiences, blending gritty realism with blockbuster spectacle.
Director’s Signature Elements
Álvarez’s trademark style is evident in the film’s relentless tension and clever use of shadows. His penchant for creating oppressive atmospheres through lighting and sound design is fully realized here. The director’s love for practical effects shines through in the creature design, which feels both familiar and refreshingly updated. Álvarez’s commitment to real stakes and consequences ensures that every character’s survival is hard-earned, avoiding the common horror trope of disposable victims.
Visuals and Soundtrack
Cinematographer Pedro Luque captures the industrial, utilitarian look of the franchise with a fresh coat of polish. The film’s palette oscillates between cold, metallic interiors and harsh alien landscapes, enhancing the sense of isolation. Composer John Carpenter’s synth-heavy score is a perfect fit, combining nostalgic notes with a modern pulse that complements the film’s tense rhythm.
Franchise Impact and Legacy
Alien Romulus succeeds in revitalizing the franchise without relying too heavily on nostalgia. It introduces enough new elements, such as innovative creature designs and updated tech, to feel like a natural evolution. The film’s subtle nods to franchise lore will please long-time fans, while its standalone plot ensures accessibility for newcomers.
Conclusion
In Alien Romulus, Fede Álvarez delivers a satisfying blend of old-school horror and modern filmmaking. While it doesn’t break new ground, it honors the legacy of its predecessors while carving out its own identity. Strong performances, effective direction, and a well-paced narrative make it one of the best Alien films in recent memory.
Final Rating
| Aspect | Rating |
|---|---|
| Plot | ★★★★☆ |
| Performances | ★★★★☆ |
| Directing | ★★★★★ |
| Cinematography | ★★★★☆ |
| Visual Effects | ★★★★☆ |
| Soundtrack | ★★★★☆ |
| Franchise Continuity | ★★★★☆ |
| Overall | ★★★★☆ |
Rating: 4 out of 5 stars (Note: Ratings may vary)
FAQs
Is Alien Romulus a standalone film or part of the Alien franchise?
Alien Romulus is part of the Alien franchise but can be enjoyed as a standalone film.
Does the film lean more towards horror or action?
The film strikes a balance between atmospheric horror and intense action, much like the original Alien.
Is Sigourney Weaver’s Ellen Ripley referenced?
While Ripley is not directly mentioned, the film pays homage to her legacy through its lead character, Dr. Elara Vance.
Can newcomers to the series enjoy this film?
Absolutely. The film is accessible to both longtime fans and those unfamiliar with the franchise.
Does the film set up a sequel?
While the story concludes neatly, subtle hints suggest the potential for future exploration in the Alien universe.
Alien Romulus may tread familiar territory, but its execution, style, and direction make it a thrilling entry in the sci-fi horror genre.