"Alien: Romulus" marks a return to the franchise's roots, tapping into the primal fear and anxiety that made the original films so iconic. Like "Twisters," this installment stands as a standalone film, borrowing heavily from its predecessors. While some might criticize the film for echoing past classics instead of reinventing the wheel, this approach results in a safe yet engaging experience regardless. However, despite the strong horror elements, the film falls short of pushing the franchise in new and innovative directions, leaving us with mixed feelings after our own high expectations.
The story follows a young group of space colonizers desperate to escape their derelict mining colony. In a bid for escape, they hijack an abandoned space station, hoping it holds the resources needed to venture into deep space. Initially, their mission seems promising, but as they delve deeper into the station, they encounter the most terrifying life form in the universe, with little means of escape.
While "Prometheus" and "Alien: Covenant" attempted to expand the mythology of the "Alien" universe, they ultimately fell short of elevating the franchise to new heights. "Alien: Romulus," by contrast, doesn’t even try to differentiate itself, yet it still manages to satisfy on a basic and primal level. The film’s biggest flaw lies was its thin narrative, which often features questionable decision-making by its characters. The contrast between human and android decision-making is intriguing, but at times it feels unnatural and forced.
Set between "Alien" (1979) and "Aliens" (1986), "Alien: Romulus" meticulously recreates the retro-futuristic aesthetic of those earlier films. The use of buttons, CRT screens, and other dated technology is a surprising yet effective choice, showcasing the filmmakers' dedication to crafting a world that fits seamlessly within the established timeline and franchise. The visual effects are equally impressive; while there are undoubtedly moments of CGI, the heavy reliance on practical effects, especially for the xenomorphs, delivers a tangible sense of terror that modern visual effects often lack.
The standout performance comes from Cailee Spaeny, who channels a Ripley-like presence in the film. However, it's unfortunate that the narrative doesn't allow most of the characters to be more than just uninteresting filler. Despite this, "Alien: Romulus" delivers a tense and atmospheric experience that should satisfy most fans of the franchise. While it may not break new ground, it succeeds in creating a gripping horror experience that’s worth watching.
Alien: Romulus Movie Review: Big Time Anxiety
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