[Movie Review] Alien: Romulus (2024): A Terrifying Return to Form, Blending Classic Horror with Sci-fi

Alien: Romulus marks a chilling comeback for the Alien franchise, blending the classic horror elements that fans love with fresh twists that make it stand out in a crowded genre.

As a fan of the first Alien movie, this version did not disappoint.

Directed by Fede Alvarez, this new installment takes us back to the franchise’s roots, delivering a movie that feels both nostalgic and innovatively terrifying, which will surely captivate sci-fi and horror fans in Singapore.

Set in a grim, Soviet-esque mining colony on a barely terraformed planet, Alien: Romulus is a story about survival against insurmountable odds. The film captures the essence of the original Alien movies with its claustrophobic settings and the ever-present dread of the xenomorphs lurking in the shadows.

From the moment the characters set foot on the abandoned space station, the atmosphere is thick with tension, reminiscent of the haunted-house-in-space vibe that made the first Alien film such a classic. The liberal use of dark yet subtle, foreboding visuals adds to the unsettling feel of the movie, making every scene feel like a nightmare come to life.

It has been a while since I have heard the audience screaming out of genuine fear in a live screening and there were plenty of screams during the media preview, especially in the second half.

Alien: Romulus got it right by sticking to practical effects and a more grounded aesthetic. The film features meticulously crafted sets and animatronics that reference back to the original films, while also incorporating modern CGI to enhance the action sequences.

The result is a visually stunning film that feels both retro and contemporary, creating a perfect blend of old-school horror and modern filmmaking techniques. The cinematography by Galo Olivares plays a crucial role here, providing a sweaty, dark visual palette that enhances the feeling of being trapped and hunted in a space that is both vast and suffocating.

The film also succeeds in delivering strong character performances, particularly from Cailee Spaeny as Rain and David Jonsson as Andy. The former is like a younger version of the irreplaceable Sigourney Weaver. This is as close as you can get.

Rain is portrayed as a resilient character, determined to survive against all odds, while Andy, a synthetic with a complex personality, provides an emotional anchor for the story. Their relationship adds a layer of depth to the narrative, offering more than just jump scares and gruesome deaths. The ensemble cast does a commendable job of making each character feel distinct and memorable, ensuring that the audience is invested in their fates from the start.

If you looking for a thrilling movie experience that combines classic horror with modern storytelling, Alien: Romulus is a must-watch. Regardless if. you are a long-time fan of the franchise or new to the xenomorph terror, this film is sure to deliver a night of tension and excitement.

Alien: Romulus is rated NC16 in Singapore and is now showing in cinemas.