Last Monday, I had the pleasure of watching Alien: Romulus at Colony Cinemas here in Atascadero. Directed by Fede Alvarez, this movie is a sequel to Ridley Scott’s 1979 Alien. From the opening scene to the rolling end credits, this movie not only stands out but also pays homage to the famous legacy of the Alien franchise. It delivers a fresh yet familiar experience, directed with a clear understanding of the series’ origin. The film flawlessly includes the best elements from every Alien movie that came before it, blending the claustrophobic terror of the original Alien with the high-energy action of the sequel Aliens, while also incorporating the eerie atmosphere and existential questions introduced in the later films. The story is cleverly created to echo the past without feeling copied or unoriginal, effectively using the franchise’s iconic themes – such as the sinister silence before chaos, the persistent pursuit of the xenomorphs, and the underlying themes of survival in an unforgiving universe.
In terms of tone, Romulus strikes a perfect balance between horror and action. The film delivers heart-racing sequences that keep you on the edge of your seat, while also knowing when to pull back and let the tension build, echoing the more methodical pace of the original movie. The horror elements are gruesome and intense, and the action is constant and well-choreographed, paying tribute to James Cameron’s Aliens without overdoing it. This balance results in a movie that understands the importance of both terror and thrill, making Romulus a worthy addition to the franchise’s rich history.
However, while sitting in the theater, I noticed that the film stumbles in character development and world-building. The characters, while functional, lack the depth and emotional quality that made characters like Ellen Ripley from the original movie so iconic. They fulfill their roles within the narrative but are not particularly compelling and memorable. Similarly, the expansion of the Alien universe is minimal, with the film opting to stay within the boundaries rather than explore new areas. Despite these shortcomings, Romulus works as a celebration of everything that came before it – a fitting tribute to the franchise’s lasting appeal. It’s a film made for fans, by fans, and while it may not break new ground, it honors its legacy with style and recognition.
If you’re a fan of the Alien series or maybe just in the mood to see a decent sci-fi movie, Alien: Romulus is worth seeing while it’s in theaters. This thrilling ride is best enjoyed on the big screen with a bucket of popcorn.

Lucy Linn