If you’re shocked to learn that director Fede Álvarez and the Alien franchise are a match made in cosmic horror, pause reading and check out Álvarez’s 2013 remake of The Evil Dead—but come back after! In this remake, the Necronomicon was resurrected after two decades, and horror fans placed their hopes in the young director. His success with this project showcased his talent for respecting and revitalizing classic horror, a skill that shines through in his latest venture, Alien: Romulus.
Álvarez, a filmmaker with a flair for modernizing beloved horror, embraces the Alien universe with a fervor that blends nostalgia with innovation. His take on the franchise is a celebration of its most harrowing elements, delivering a film that honors its roots while pushing its boundaries.
Alien: Romulus shines with exceptional production design, drawing inspiration from Ridley Scott’s original film while incorporating futuristic elements reminiscent of James Cameron’s Aliens. The film’s aesthetic is a harmonious blend of Scott’s industrial futurism and H.R. Giger’s iconic Xenomorph designs. This synthesis creates a visually striking environment that enhances the film’s suspense and horror.
The production team behind Alien: Romulus has achieved a remarkable integration of computer-generated imagery (CGI) and practical effects. The blend of these techniques creates a convincing and immersive experience. While the film generally succeeds in masking its CGI, there are moments, particularly in the third act, where the artificiality of some effects becomes noticeable. Close-ups of synthetic Xenomorph heads and the use of miniatures are occasionally evident. Nevertheless, these instances also serve to evoke the tactile quality of the franchise’s early films, paying homage to the practical effects that defined the original movies.
In Alien: Romulus, Álvarez demonstrates his skill in balancing homage with innovation. The film’s tension and dread are palpable, thanks to its meticulous attention to detail and its dedication to the essence of the Alien franchise. The scenes of intense action and bone-crunching mayhem are executed with a mix of respect for the original series and a fresh, modern perspective.
Ultimately, Alien: Romulus stands out as a testament to Álvarez’s ability to revitalize iconic franchises while staying true to their foundational elements. The film is a thrilling ride for both long-time fans and newcomers, offering a potent blend of suspense, horror, and visual splendor. It’s clear that Álvarez’s approach not only honors the legacy of Alien but also reinvigorates it for a new generation of viewers.