Officially Ranked: Every Alien Movie, From Failed Crossover to Strange Cult Curiosity
A franchise with divided opinions
The Alien franchise has become a major presence in science-fiction and horror cinema. Its first two films are widely regarded as great, while fans continue to debate which one is stronger.
The other seven films featuring xenomorphs have earned varying levels of appreciation. Responses often reflect the balance between a film’s ambitions and how well it carries them out, as well as viewers’ individual tastes.
Requiem loses its way
Aliens vs. Predator: Requiem is criticized as a failure across both franchises. Its dim lighting and editing make scenes difficult to follow, and the article says clearer images would not fix the film’s broader problems.
The story brings a Predalien hybrid to a small Colorado town after the events of Alien vs. Predator. Rather than space truckers, scientists or Colonial Marines, it relies on slasher-style stock characters; the creature effects are also obscured by darkness.
A stranger kind of sequel
Alien: Resurrection brings back Ripley as a clone, with a xenomorph embryo inside her. After scientists’ experiments go wrong, the aliens escape and Ripley joins a crew of space pirates.
The film’s striking visuals, practical effects and bizarre, sexual tone give it an unusual appeal despite its weaknesses. The account also describes tension between Joss Whedon’s banter and director Jean-Pierre Jeunet’s style, and calls the film the end of the original continuity.
The crossover’s limited appeal
Alien vs. Predator is presented as a financial and fan-service project rather than an attempt to advance the genre. It has some entertaining blockbuster moments, but they are spread across an overcomplicated story and thinly developed characters.
The film follows experts and mercenaries into an Antarctic pyramid used by Predators for ceremonial hunts involving alien prey. Its PG-13 rating, according to the account, holds back the carnage fans might expect from the monsters’ first meeting.
Key points
- The first two Alien films are widely considered great, though fans debate which is better.
- Requiem is faulted for poor lighting, confusing editing and slasher-style characters.
- Resurrection combines striking visuals and practical effects with an unusually bizarre tone.
- Alien vs. Predator offers some entertaining moments but is criticized for its story and characters.