The seventh chapter of the iconic *Alien* franchise, *Alien: Romulus*, revolves around Rain (Cailee Spaeny), a contract worker in a harsh outer-space mining colony, and her android companion, Andy (David Jonsson).
In the world of movie sequels, some installments venture into fresh territory, bringing innovative ideas, new characters, and expanded lore. Others, however, simply serve as filler—keeping the franchise alive and profitable while bridging the gap between major releases. *Alien: Romulus*, the latest entry in this enduring series, falls into the latter category. It’s a serviceable but uninspired addition, offering fans the familiar thrills without reinventing the wheel.
Since Ridley Scott’s groundbreaking *Alien* in 1979, the franchise has had its share of highs and lows. It has solidified Sigourney Weaver’s place as an icon and provided David Fincher with his directorial debut. While some entries have demonstrated Scott’s masterful touch, such as *Prometheus* and *Alien: Covenant*, which are noted for their stunning visuals and thought-provoking themes, *Alien: Romulus* doesn’t reach these heights. Instead, it focuses on delivering a straightforward action-horror experience.
Directed by Fede Álvarez (known for *Don’t Breathe*) and co-written with Rodo Sayagues, *Romulus* presents a familiar narrative of survival and grit. The story follows Rain, a young worker in a bleak space mining colony, who dreams of escaping her grim surroundings and the harsh life that claimed her parents. Her chance comes when she learns of a planned escape aboard an abandoned space station floating above their planet.
Álvarez efficiently sets up the story, but the exploration of the derelict station quickly becomes predictable. The film showcases more of its sets than it does of engaging storytelling, though the setting itself adds a certain atmosphere. Spaeny, who previously portrayed Priscilla Presley in Sofia Coppola’s *Priscilla*, brings a relatable and vulnerable quality to her role. Her portrayal of Rain is compelling enough to keep viewers invested, especially given the franchise’s history and the inevitable presence of extraterrestrial threats.
Ultimately, *Alien: Romulus* delivers on the franchise’s signature scares and action but lacks the depth and originality of its predecessors. It’s a worthy entry for dedicated fans but may leave others yearning for the inventive brilliance that defined the early films in the series.
