Olivia William || Issue 10 || December 3rd, 2024
Minor Spoilers Ahead!
The Alien Franchise has seen its ups and downs over the years. After the release of Aliens in 1986, the franchise has been on a general downward trend. The revival of the franchise with Prometheus and Alien: Covenant was met with generally mixed reception. But Alien: Romulus has reinvigorated
excitement and interest in the franchise with its release last summer. Between its premise, effects, and cinematography, it is definitely worth a watch if you haven’t gotten a chance to see it yet. The cinematography is breathtaking with its use of perspective and color. And that is only heightened by the extensive use of practical effects and sets. It gives the film a more grounded feeling and naturally pulls the viewer into the film’s environment. The practical effects are very well done regarding the extraterrestrial antagonists of the film. The costuming, puppetry, and animatronics are all utilized very
well and make for more frightening scenes. It enhances the scare factor of the film. However, this does make the few occasions CGI is majorly used, to appear a tad uncanny.
The horror aspect is carefully crafted within the film, combining classic scares and introducing new techniques of danger for the characters to experience that haven’t been explored in prior movies. The
face-huggers and xenomorphs are really given a chance to shine here. There are many callbacks to the
earlier films of the franchise. Some may find that overbearing, but they can serve as a bit of nostalgic fun. Although it should be said, having seen the previous movies of the franchise adds to the enjoyment of the film, it’s not necessary. This film can be watched on its own, and still be
followed along and enjoyed. The acting is decent all around, but the standout is David Jonsson as Andy.
He plays a synthetic and brings his A-game to the role. He’s able to capture both ends of the spectrum from childlike naivety to cold and calculating, and he makes it all believable. It’s additionally interesting to watch his dynamic with the main character Rain (played by Cailee Spaeny). The manner in which their relationships ebbs and flows is intriguing. Cailee Spaney plays her character well, as
does Isabela Merced as Kay, who perfectly captures the horror of the situation these characters are thrown into. The underlying themes seem to hint at the relationship artificial intelligence may have with humans and where that nuance lies regarding benefits versus dangers; especially now
as we move forward, and AI becomes increasingly prevalent. In addition to that there does seem to be a commentary on capitalism, as there often has been especially in the first Alien movie. This is made evident when these labor workers in the film strive for a better future, but are met with the harsh
reality of the corporation-controlled world they live in. That causes them to resort to drastic measures in hopes of a better life, which has disastrous results. There is debate about the final act, which may make or break the movie for some. The final act does throw in something unexpected and shocking.
In my opinion, the final act only adds to the fun of the film. The movie doesn’t exactly subvert
expectations or dwell on deep psycho logical themes. It may follow the formula of the first film of the franchise closely, but it’s a well-made movie with constant thrills and great bouts of growing suspense that’s enhanced by its musical score. Between all the various reboots, revamps, and revivals
that Hollywood has put out for various intellectual properties this year, this counts as one of the good ones.
The Hudsonian 