Alien: Romulus

Movie Review: Alien : Romulus (2024)

Alien: Romulus is a science fiction horror film from 2024, directed by Fede Álvarez. The film is set between Alien (1979) and Aliens (1986) and consciously attempts to return to the roots of the series.

Summary of contents

The story follows a group of young people living on a remote planet under the control of a large corporation. Searching for a better life, they infiltrate an abandoned space station once used by the Weyland-Yutani Corporation. There, they stumble upon something that should have remained hidden.

What initially seems like a risky but feasible plan quickly develops into a fight for survival. The group is confronted by the deadly alien life form that fans of the series know all too well. Trapped in the station's confined space, the characters must make life-or-death decisions.

Rating and atmosphere

Alien: Romulus focuses heavily on suspense, claustrophobia, and atmosphere rather than big-budget action. The film is significantly darker and more subdued than many modern blockbusters. The threat builds slowly, creating a consistently unsettling and nerve-wracking atmosphere. Visually, the film is heavily inspired by the retro-futuristic design of the 1979 original.

The characters are more central than in some previous sequels, even if they aren't as iconic as Ellen Ripley. Nevertheless, their fears and reactions feel believable, which heightens the tension.

Development compared to the old parts

• Return to horror: Unlike Aliens or Alien: Covenant, which focused more on action, Romulus concentrates again on classic survival horror.

• Less explanation, more threat: The film explains less about the origin of the aliens and instead uses the unknown as a fear factor – similar to the first alien.

• Modern adaptation: Despite its close resemblance to the older installments, the film utilizes modern film technology, but consciously remains grounded and avoids excessive CGI effects.

Conclusion

Alien: Romulus is a successful return to what originally defined the series: fear, isolation, and a seemingly unstoppable, unknown threat. It's particularly interesting for fans of the original films, as it respects their tone and style without simply copying them. Those expecting more action-packed science fiction might find it too subdued – but for horror fans, it's a strong installment in the Alien franchise.