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- A Groundbreaking & Enduring Franchise
- What Is Alien: Romulus About & Who Is In It?
- Fede Álvarez’s Chilling Horror Hit
- The Alien Series Is In Capable Hands
As a seasoned horror movie enthusiast and critic, I must say that Fede Álvarez has truly outdone himself yet again. His exceptional vision and daring approach to storytelling have breathed new life into two of my favorite horror franchises – first with his gripping remake of “Evil Dead” and now with the highly anticipated “Alien: Romulus.”
45 years ago, the world met Ellen Ripley for the first time, a determined and tenacious woman who battled against a terrifying alien aboard the spaceship Nostromo in the groundbreaking sci-fi horror film Alien. This Ridley Scott masterpiece was both critically acclaimed and commercially successful, catapulting its lead star Sigourney Weaver, the director, and the franchise itself into Hollywood stardom. Four decades later, this action-packed series still captivates audiences, with numerous follow-ups, prequels, and spin-offs having been released since the original’s success.
Filmmaker Fede Álvarez has been chosen to direct the upcoming Alien film, Alien: Romulus. Known for his successful horror films Evil Dead (2013) and Don’t Breathe, Álvarez is quickly becoming a favorite among horror enthusiasts due to his innovative and suspenseful storytelling techniques. Fans are eagerly anticipating the release of Alien: Romulus as they can’t get enough of Álvarez’s unique approach to creating spine-tingling tales. Let’s delve into the horror success that Álvarez has already achieved and uncover what fans can expect from his upcoming Alien film.
A Groundbreaking & Enduring Franchise
Hailed as one of the most influential and revolutionary sci-fi horror series ever created, the blockbuster franchise Alien first burst onto the scene in 1979, leaving audiences spellbound with its awe-inspiring special effects, heart-stopping plotline, and heart-pounding monster. Renowned filmmaker Ridley Scott directed the initial installment, which is widely regarded as one of the best films ever made — a cinematic tour de force that seamlessly combined science fiction and horror elements to chilling effect.
As a movie critic, I can confidently say that the chilling masterpiece “Alien” catapulted Sigourney Weaver into the ranks of Hollywood’s leading ladies. This groundbreaking film, which garnered immense success, paved the way for a blockbuster franchise that spans eight installments, encompassing sequels, prequels, and crossovers. To date, this series has grossed an impressive $1.3 billion globally. Furthermore, it has been honored with numerous prestigious accolades, including three Academy Awards, 12 Saturn Awards, and three BAFTAs. Weaver’s portrayal of Ellen Ripley, a tough-as-nails character, is widely regarded as one of the most impactful and formidable female protagonists in cinematic history, solidifying her status as a pop culture icon.
Enthusiasts of the thrilling Alien franchise are eagerly counting down the days until August 16, 2024, when Alien: Romulus will premiere. It’s been seven years since Alien: Covenant graced our screens, despite generally positive reviews, it couldn’t quite recoup its high production costs and rule the box office. Even though it’s been decades since the original was released, there’s still a hunger for more heart-stopping episodes in this series. Director Fede Álvarez aims to add his distinctive flair to this pioneering franchise with Alien: Romulus.
What Is Alien: Romulus About & Who Is In It?
The eagerly awaited movie, “Alien: Romulus,” functions as a standalone interquel and unfolds between the incidents depicted in “Alien” and “Aliens.” This film centers on a team of ambitious space settlers who accidentally encounter the terrifying extraterrestrial lifeform while exploring an abandoned spaceship. Their discovery triggers the release of the ferocious, deadly creature, forcing them to battle for survival. The film’s cast includes rising stars like Cailee Spaeny, David Johsson, Archie Renaux, and Isabela Merced. In an interview with Variety, director F. Javier Álvarez disclosed the somber motivation behind selecting such a young cast.
Generally speaking, it’s more distressing to see young characters die in horror movies compared to older ones. We can all agree on that. If an elderly man passes away on screen, you might reflect on his well-lived life. However, the death of a 12-year-old child in a movie is heart-wrenching.
Actress Cailee Spaeny is set to play Rain Carradine in the upcoming film “Romulus”. Known for roles in movies like “Pacific Rim Uprising”, “Bad Times at the El Royale”, and “On the Basis of Sex”, Spaeny gave a particularly stunning performance as Priscilla Presley in the biopic “Priscilla” in 2023. Joining her in this project are David Jonsson, famed from BBC drama “Industry“, Archie Renaux from “Shadow and Bone“, and Isabela Merced of “Madame Web“, along with other talented young actors. With this new release, moviegoers and the box office are expected to be greatly impacted.
Fede Álvarez’s Chilling Horror Hit
Prior to “Alien: Romulus”, director Fede Álvarez was behind the successful 2016 film “Don’t Breathe”. Álvarez took on the roles of writer, director, and producer for this suspenseful movie. The story revolves around a group of Detroit burglars who specialize in breaking into wealthy homes and making off with their valuables. In this case, the trio consisting of Rocky (Jane Levy), Alex (Dylan Minnette), and Money (Daniel Zovatto) decide to rob Gulf War Veteran Norman Nordstrom, whom they believe has $300,000 in cash stashed away. However, they soon discover that they have chosen their target most unwisely.
In the movie “Don’t Breathe,” directed by Álvarez to counter critics who deemed his first work, “Evil Dead,” excessively violent and only financially successful due to its fanbase, the protagonists find out that stealing from a blind man named Nordstrom will be much harder than anticipated. They are caught in his isolated home and become targets of a tough and resourceful vet, who they come to understand has a sinister secret hidden within.
As a movie enthusiast, allow me to share a unique perspective I’ve encountered in a recent film: Instead of enhancing a character with extraordinary abilities, the creators opted for a different approach. They stripped their protagonist of one of his most vital senses – sight – making him blind. This intriguing twist not only humanizes the character but also adds layers of depth to the storytelling, as he navigates a world that is alien and unfamiliar to him.
The movie “Don’t Breathe” was a massive success worldwide after its impressive debut at SXSW. The nerve-wracking film earned $157.8 million, significantly more than its initial budget of $9.9 million. Critics admired the horror film for its numerous shocking plot twists, engaging script, and strong acting performances. They also applauded Álvarez for his exceptional directing skills and innovative approach in avoiding overused horror clichés.
Audiences awarded the acclaimed film a solid B+ CinemaScore and IGN lauded Álvarez in their rave review, “Director Fede Álvarez delivers a lean, very mean thrill ride with Don’t Breathe, tapping into several primal human fears and further establishing himself as one of the genre filmmakers to keep an eye on in the years ahead.” Don’t Breathe went on to the Saturn Award for Best Horror Film and its overwhelming critical and commercial success led to the 2021 sequel Don’t Breathe 2, which Álvarez co-wrote but didn’t direct. Though it failed to match the achievements of its predecessor, a third installment in the series was nonetheless announced and is in the works.
The Alien Series Is In Capable Hands
When a director like Fede Álvarez steps into the directorial role for a well-established franchise such as ‘Alien: Romulus’, there is usually a sense of apprehension. However, it seems that Álvarez himself feels assured that this new addition will live up to the horror genre’s high standards. Interestingly, the original film’s director, Ridley Scott, has taken on a producer role and even joked with Álvarez on the first day of shooting, saying “Don’t mess it up.” Initial responses to ‘Romulus’ have been favorable, and any reservations fans might have had appear to be alleviated, as audiences seem to be impressed by Álvarez’s impressive world-building and top-notch practical effects.
While some might find the conclusion controversial, “Alien: Romulus” promises an abundance of excitement and shivers for cinema-goers and dedicated franchise enthusiasts. It’s no surprise that Álvarez has hit it out of the park yet again; he directed the terrifying blockbuster “Don’t Breathe” and the spine-chilling 2013 remake of “Evil Dead.” This gifted filmmaker, known for his innovative storytelling style and defiance of common horror conventions, keeps viewers guessing. So, we eagerly await seeing how he will rejuvenate the “Alien” franchise and keep us on edge.
Watch Alien: Romulus in theaters on August 16, 2024.
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2024-08-16 04:32