Alien: Romulus (2024)

Rating: 4.5/5

Plot Summary

"Alien: Romulus," directed by Fede Álvarez, is the latest installment in the Alien franchise—a series that’s been messing with our minds since Ridley Scott’s original classic in 1979. Set between Alien and Aliens, this film is all about bringing back that intense, claustrophobic horror that made the original a masterpiece, with some fresh new twists. With Cailee Spaeny, David Jonsson, and Isabela Merced leading the charge, Alien: Romulus dives right back into the terror that’s kept us hooked for decades. The plot of "Alien: Romulus" doesn’t mess around—it's straightforward and to the point, focusing on a group of space workers who end up on a run down space station swarming with Xenomorphs. Álvarez uses this simple setup to ramp up the tension, packing the film with jump scares, intense action, and a creeping sense of dread. It’s all about survival here, no deep philosophical detours—just a hard-hitting return to the basics that made the original so unforgettable.

Chopping Block - Hits & Misses

Hits

• One of the standout elements for me is its killer production design. The space station comes to life with such incredible detail that it feels like a decaying relic from a long-lost era. I love how the claustrophobic corridors, dim lighting, and eerie sounds all combine to create a palpable sense of impending doom that really hits you hard. And the practical effects? Absolutely top-notch! The way they depict the Xenomorphs and enhance the gritty, atmospheric setting is all about total immersion for me. It’s an experience that pulls you right into the heart of the horror.

• The sound design is a masterclass in building tension. Every creak, hiss, and distant scream ramps up the film's terrifying atmosphere. Galo Olivares' cinematography is the perfect partner in crime, with a dark and gritty visual style that tips its hat to the originals while bringing in some fresh, dynamic visuals. And the camera work during the Xenomorph action? It’ll keep you on the edge of your seat, making sure the horror hits you right in the gut.

• As a longtime fan of the franchise, "Alien: Romulus" felt like it served up nostalgia in a way that felt both respectful and rewarding. The film is packed with subtle nods to Ridley Scott’s original, featuring familiar visual cues and thematic echoes that strengthen the connection to those classic films. Mix in Álvarez’s fresh direction, and you’ve got a solid bridge between the old and the new, making for a super satisfying experience.

Misses

• While the film delivers strong central performances, a number of secondary characters feel like they’re just there for cannon fodder. This lack of development makes it hard to connect with them or care when their time comes. And let’s be honest—the fast pacing doesn’t help necessarily help in this case; there’s barely room for any real character exploration.

• While this film does a great job at creating tension, the pacing felt a bit uneven. The first half nails the suspense, but the second half rushes through crucial moments, leading to a climax that feels way too hurried. This uneven pacing can definitely take away from the overall experience, which left me craving a more balanced buildup and resolution.

  
  

Full Review

• Scare Factor — Points: 1

  "Alien: Romulus" brings back the claustrophobic horror that made the original Alien a classic. The atmospheric tension, unsettling sound design, and gripping cinematography ensure that the scares hit hard, which kept me on the edge of my seat the entire time.

• Storyline and Plot — Points: .5

  The plot is straightforward and effective, zeroing in on survival and terror in a confined space. It might not blow my mind with groundbreaking twists, but it definitely delivers the suspense and dread that I expect from an Alien film.

• Atmosphere and Setting — Points: 1

  The space station setting is brilliantly realized, with detailed production design that amps up the film's sense of isolation and danger. That dark, decaying environment? It really cranks up the oppressive atmosphere, and I’m all here for it!

• Special Effects and Makeup — Points: 1

  The practical effects, particularly in the depiction of the Xenomorphs, are executed with care and attention to detail. The use of CGI is mostly seamless, although some fan service moments may feel overdone.

• Acting and Performances — Points: 1

  The practical effects in Alien: Romulus, especially regarding the Xenomorphs, are done with impressive attention to detail. The CGI blends seamlessly, and I really loved those nostalgic moments that harken back to the franchise’s roots.

Final Verdict

"Alien: Romulus" proudly stands as a worthy entry in the Alien franchise. Sure, it’s not flawless—there are some character development that could be sharper—but it packs the suspense, terror, and action fans expect. Fede Álvarez revitalizes the series, making it a must-see for both hardcore fans and fresh faces!

Rating: 4.5/5

What did you think of "Alien: Romulus"?

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