Alien: Romulus 2024 Review – Should You Watch It?

“Alien: Romulus Review” – Is it any good? You bet! This latest Alien movie brings back the bone-chilling fear and adds some new twists that keep you hooked. Want to know why this film is a must-see for any sci-fi horror fan?

Let’s find out!

Key Points of the Blog:

• “Alien: Romulus” continues the story after Alien: Covenant with new characters and challenges.
• The plot follows colonists stuck on a dangerous space station with deadly Xenomorphs.
• Rain Carradine, played by Cailee Spaeny, is a standout as the film’s new heroine.
• Director Fede Álvarez brings a gritty, suspenseful style that keeps you on edge.
• The visual effects mix practical and CGI to create terrifying, realistic aliens.
• Critics have praised the movie for its return to the franchise’s horror roots.
• There’s some controversy over the use of CGI to recreate the late Ian Holm’s character, Ash.
• “Alien: Romulus” is a must-watch for both die-hard fans and newcomers to the series.

Alien: Romulus 2024 Review

Let me start by explaining that “Alien: Romulus” is the latest chapter in the legendary Alien series, which began way back in 1979 with Ridley Scott’s groundbreaking film Alien. This series has grown over the years with several sequels, prequels, and spin-offs. 

But where exactly does “Alien: Romulus” fit in? It’s a direct continuation after Alien: Covenant but still feels fresh. The movie brings in new characters and a different storyline while keeping the terrifying creatures we know and fear—Xenomorphs—at the heart of the action.

So, if you’re familiar with the other Alien movies, you’ll find both familiar scares and new surprises in “Alien: Romulus.”

What is the basic plot of “Alien: Romulus”?

Now, let me break down the plot for you. “Alien: Romulus” is set a few years after the original Alien movie but before Aliens. It follows a group of young colonists who are in a desperate situation—they’re trying to escape their dying mining settlement.

While on the run, they come across an abandoned space station. But, as you might guess, the station isn’t as empty as they hoped. The place is crawling with Xenomorphs, the deadly creatures that have been the franchise’s hallmark.

The story focuses on survival, with the colonists fighting to stay alive while unraveling the mysteries of the space station. 

It’s a simple, yet effective plot that brings back the intense, nerve-wracking horror the series is known for.

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Who are the key characters in the movie?

You’re probably wondering about the characters, right? The movie introduces a new lead character, Rain Carradine, played by Cailee Spaeny.

Rain starts off as a reserved and somewhat quiet person, but as the movie progresses, she grows into a strong leader, much like Sigourney Weaver’s Ellen Ripley from the original movies.

Then there’s Andy, an android played by David Jonsson. Andy isn’t your typical robot—he’s got layers, with some moral complexities that add depth to the story.

How does “Alien: Romulus” compare to the other Alien movies?

So, what’s different about “Alien: Romulus”? First off, it mixes the classic elements we love—like the tight, claustrophobic environments and the ever-present danger of the Xenomorphs—with some new twists.

The setting, an abandoned space station, feels more mysterious. 

The movie also focuses more on the characters’ relationships and the psychological toll of facing such deadly threats. 

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How does the tone and style of “Alien: Romulus” match the rest of the series?

Let’s talk about the tone and style. If you’ve seen the original Alien or even Aliens, you know that the series is famous for its dark, suspenseful atmosphere. “Alien: Romulus” nails this.

The film is dripping with tension from start to finish. It uses a lot of practical effects and gritty, realistic settings, just like the earlier movies. This helps create a sense of authenticity—like you’re really there, stuck on that space station, trying to survive.

The director, Fede Álvarez, who is known for horror movies like Evil Dead and Don’t Breathe, brings his expertise in building suspense and terror, making “Alien: Romulus” feel like a true return to the series’ roots.

What are the similarities and differences in the storyline?

Now, in terms of the storyline, “Alien: Romulus” has a lot in common with the original Alien—both are about survival in a hostile environment, with a relentless, terrifying enemy.

But where the original focused on a single alien stalking the crew, “Alien: Romulus” ramps up the danger by introducing multiple Xenomorphs and a bigger, more complex setting.

The new movie also digs deeper into the origins of the Xenomorphs and the mysterious space station, giving fans more to chew on.

While it’s similar in structure, the added layers of mystery and the more intense action set “Alien: Romulus” apart from its predecessors.

What I Like About “Alien: Romulus”?

One of the things I think stands out in “Alien: Romulus” is the acting. The cast does a fantastic job bringing their characters to life. Cailee Spaeny as Rain Carradine is especially strong, evolving from a hesitant colonist to a fierce leader. 

You can really feel her fear and determination. David Jonsson as the android Andy is another highlight—his performance adds a lot of tension and ambiguity, making you question what his true motives are. 

The rest of the cast also delivers solid performances, making you care about their fates, which isn’t always easy in horror movies.

What makes the visual effects stand out?

The visual effects in “Alien: Romulus” are top-notch. The Xenomorphs look more terrifying than ever, thanks to a mix of practical effects and CGI. The space station is another visual treat—it’s dark, claustrophobic, and filled with small details that make it feel real and lived-in.

The effects team did a great job creating a world that feels both alien and eerily familiar. Whether it’s the slimy, dripping jaws of the Xenomorphs or the flickering lights in a deserted corridor, every detail is designed to keep you on edge.

How does the movie build tension and fear?

Building tension is where “Alien: Romulus” really excels. The movie doesn’t rely on cheap jump scares—instead, it slowly ramps up the suspense, making you feel the characters’ fear and uncertainty. 

Fede Álvarez’s direction is key here; he uses silence and pacing to great effect, letting the tension build naturally. 

When the action does kick in, it’s intense and brutal, but the slow burn leading up to those moments is what really makes the scars effective. You’ll find yourself gripping your seat, waiting for the next threat to emerge from the shadows.

Are there any weaknesses in “Alien: Romulus”?

No movie is perfect, and “Alien: Romulus” does have a few minor issues. The pacing, for example, can be a bit uneven at times. The film starts off strong, with a lot of tension and mystery, but there are a few moments where the story slows down a little too much.

These slower parts might make you lose focus for a moment, but the good news is that the movie usually picks up quickly after these lulls, getting back to the suspense and action that you came for.

How does the movie handle its characters?

When it comes to characters, the movie does a great job with the main cast, especially Rain and Andy. But some of the supporting characters don’t get as much development as they could have.

This makes it harder to connect with them, and when they’re put in danger, you might not feel as invested in their survival. There are also a few character decisions that feel a bit forced, like they’re only there to move the plot along.

However, these moments are few and far between, and they don’t take away too much from the overall experience.

Are there any plot holes or confusing moments?

As with many sci-fi movies, “Alien: Romulus” has a few moments that might leave you scratching your head. There are a couple of plot points that aren’t fully explained, which might confuse some viewers.

For example, the exact origins of the space station and some of the Xenomorphs’ behavior aren’t completely clear. These plot holes don’t ruin the movie, but they might leave you with a few questions by the end.

If you’re a fan of the series, you might enjoy speculating about these mysteries and what they could mean for the future of the franchise.

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What are the fans and critics saying about “Alien: Romulus”?

The reaction from fans has been mostly positive. Long-time followers of the Alien franchise are pleased with how “Alien: Romulus” captures the spirit of the original films while still bringing something new to the table.

Many fans have praised the movie’s suspenseful atmosphere, strong performances, and impressive visual effects. Of course, not everyone agrees—some fans feel the movie could have done more to innovate or explore new ideas.

But overall, the feedback has been encouraging, with most people enjoying the return to the franchise’s horror roots.

What are the critics’ opinions?

Critics have had a lot to say about “Alien: Romulus” too. Many reviews highlight the film’s strong direction, especially how Fede Álvarez manages to balance new ideas with the classic elements that made the original films so successful.

The pacing and character development have received mixed reviews—some critics loved the slow build of tension, while others found the slower moments a bit tedious.

But even those who had criticisms generally agree that “Alien: Romulus” is a solid entry in the series and a must-see for fans of sci-fi horror.

How does “Alien: Romulus” perform at the box office?

At the box office, “Alien: Romulus” has done pretty well. It’s drawn in audiences who are eager to see the latest installment in the franchise, especially given its mix of nostalgia and new ideas.

While it might not break records, the movie has been a strong performer, proving that there’s still a lot of interest in the Alien series.

The film’s success at the box office shows that both old fans and new viewers are enjoying what it has to offer.

Should you watch “Alien: Romulus”?

If you’re a fan of sci-fi horror or the Alien franchise, “Alien: Romulus” is definitely worth your time. The movie offers plenty of suspense, action, and creepy moments that will keep you entertained from start to finish.

It’s also a great choice for anyone who enjoys stories about survival in space, with all the tension and terror that comes with it. Whether you’re an old fan of the series or new to it, this movie has something for everyone.

Is “Alien: Romulus” a must-see for Alien fans?

For fans of the Alien franchise, “Alien: Romulus” is a must-see. It stays true to the elements that made the original films so iconic—like the terrifying Xenomorphs and the intense atmosphere—while also bringing in fresh ideas that keep things exciting.

Whether you’re a long-time fan or someone just getting into the series, this movie offers a thrilling experience that you won’t want to miss.

It’s a great addition to the franchise and a film that fans will likely be talking about for a long time.

How does it compare to other recent sci-fi horror movies?

When you compare “Alien: Romulus” to other recent sci-fi horror movies, it stands out for its blend of classic horror elements with modern filmmaking techniques.

Movies like A Quiet Place and Annihilation have also been praised for their suspense and originality, but “Alien: Romulus” offers something different. It taps into a well-loved franchise with a deep history while still feeling fresh and new.

If you’re into sci-fi horror, this movie should definitely be on your watchlist.

Controversy Surrounding “Alien: Romulus”

Yes, there have been some controversies surrounding “Alien: Romulus.” One notable issue is the use of CGI and deepfake technology to recreate the likeness of the late Ian Holm’s character, Ash, from the original “Alien” film.

Some fans and critics have expressed discomfort with this decision, feeling that it might be in poor taste or create an uncanny valley effect.

Despite securing permission from Holm’s estate, the decision sparked debate about the ethical implications of using such technology in films.

While some people appreciate the nod to the original, others feel it raises important questions about how we use technology to bring deceased actors back to the screen.

Final Words

Here’s why you should watch “Alien: Romulus”:

• It nails the intense fear and suspense that made the original Alien movies classics.
• Cailee Spaeny shines as Rain Carradine, a new hero to root for.
• The movie looks amazing, with a mix of old-school effects and modern CGI.
• It keeps the Alien story fresh with new twists and deeper lore.
• Even with a few slow spots, it’s a thrilling addition to the franchise that fans will love.

That’s all.