Alien: Romulus – A Thrilling Return With Familiar Bite

Alien: Romulus” offers a tense return to Xenomorph horror, bringing back the terror that defined the original franchise. Directed by Fede Álvarez, this film revisits the claustrophobic and eerie atmosphere that made the “Alien” series a staple of sci-fi horror. The film successfully taps into the primal fear of the unknown, but its reliance on familiar elements leaves mixed impressions.

Atmosphere and Setting

“Alien: Romulus” transports viewers back to the dark and foreboding world of space. The film’s setting, the Jackson’s Star mining colony, oozes with industrial grime. It’s a metal labyrinth where danger lurks around every corner. Álvarez nails the atmosphere, blending the cold, mechanical environment with a sense of impending doom. This return to the franchise’s roots creates a tense environment that fans of the original will appreciate.

The decommissioned space station, Renaissance, is another masterstroke. It’s an abandoned, malfunctioning structure where the Xenomorphs await their next prey. The production design, a blend of practical effects and CGI immerses viewers in a setting where survival feels impossible. Yet, as effective as these elements are, some of the creature effects, especially in the final act, lose their impact. The artificiality of certain scenes detracts from the otherwise visceral horror.

Character Dynamics

The relationship between Rain Carradine (Cailee Spaeny) and her android brother, Andy (David Jonsson), is the heart of “Alien: Romulus.” Their bond is tender and genuine, providing an emotional anchor in the midst of chaos. Rain’s determination to protect Andy adds depth to her character, making her a relatable and strong protagonist. Andy, with his awkward innocence and programmed loyalty, becomes more than just a sidekick. Their dynamic drives much of the film’s emotional tension.

However, the supporting characters fall into predictable roles. The crew members, while competent, serve more as Xenomorph fodder than as fully developed characters. This predictability weakens the film’s ability to surprise and engage the audience on a deeper level.

Tension Builds, But Peaks Too Soon

“Alien: Romulus” delivers on its promise of intense action and horror. The tension builds methodically, with each encounter with the Xenomorphs raising the stakes. Álvarez excels in crafting these scenes, using tight spaces and limited lighting to heighten the sense of fear. When the Xenomorphs finally attack, the film shifts into high gear. The action is brutal, with bone-crunching intensity that will satisfy fans of the genre.

Yet, the film’s climax feels rushed and disjointed. The third act, which should bring all the tension to a peak, instead becomes a confusing jumble of action. The decision to digitally resurrect Ian Holm’s character, Ash, from the original “Alien,” adds to the chaos. This choice distracts more than it adds, breaking the immersion and leaving the audience questioning its necessity.

Final Thoughts

“Alien: Romulus” is a tense return to Xenomorph horror, blending nostalgia with modern filmmaking. It effectively captures the fear and suspense that defined the original series. The atmospheric setting and the central relationship between Rain and Andy stand out as highlights. However, the film’s reliance on familiar tropes and a muddled climax prevent it from reaching the heights of its predecessors.

Bhabani Sankar Pradhan