Alien: Romulus Review – Exploring the Kotaku Game Experience
Good or bad taste is a subjective matter, but when it comes to the latest sci-fi horror film, Alien: Romulus, from Uruguayan director Fede Álvarez, the mix of both is quite apparent. Known for his work on the thrilling Evil Dead remake, Álvarez brings a fresh take to the Alien franchise by blending analog sci-fi vibes with modern storytelling elements. The film aims to appeal to both old-school fans of the original Alien movies and a younger audience, thanks to its talented cast and fast-paced narrative.
### A Nostalgic Journey
Alien: Romulus kicks off with a nod to the past as the wreckage of the Nostromo, the iconic ship from the first Alien film, sets the stage for the story. The film then shifts its focus to a group of young adults living in a desolate mining colony named Jackson’s Star. Rain Carradine, portrayed by Cailee Spaeny, and her synthetic “brother” Andy, played by David Jonsson, navigate a world of indentured servitude and longing for escape to a better life on the terraformed planet of Yvaga II.
As the plot unfolds, the teens stumble upon a derelict Weyu ship that holds the key to their freedom. With Andy’s unique abilities and the group’s determination, they embark on a dangerous mission to steal the ship’s cryopods and reach their desired destination. The dynamic between Rain and Andy forms the emotional core of the film, drawing viewers in with their compelling relationship and individual struggles.
### Visual Spectacle and Practical Effects
Visually, Alien: Romulus is a feast for the eyes, blending stunning cinematography with impressive set design and special effects. The scenes of the shuttle ascending through the planet’s atmosphere towards the derelict outpost are awe-inspiring, with rain and lightning adding to the sense of impending danger. The use of color, light, and texture enhances the eerie atmosphere of the film, while the practical and digital effects seamlessly bring the iconic xenomorphs to life.
Álvarez’s careful attention to detail is evident throughout the film, from the design of the outpost’s computer system to the recreation of classic Alien elements such as the acid-blooded xenomorphs. The blend of old and new techniques in creating the film’s visuals pays homage to the original franchise while offering a fresh perspective on the sci-fi horror genre.
### Nostalgia Done Right and Wrong
While Alien: Romulus successfully captures the essence of the Alien universe with its visual and narrative elements, it occasionally stumbles in its reliance on nostalgia. The film is filled with Easter eggs and references to past installments, from familiar quotes to iconic scenes recreated for a new generation of viewers. However, the inclusion of a digitally recreated Ian Holm as the damaged synthetic Rook feels out of place and detracts from the overall experience.
The constant stream of nods and winks to the original films can be distracting at times, taking away from the film’s originality and impact. While some fans may appreciate the callbacks to the franchise’s history, others may find them tiring and unnecessary. The balance between honoring the past and creating something new is delicate, and Alien: Romulus struggles to find the right mix at times.
### A Compelling Narrative and Strong Performances
Despite its nostalgic leanings, Alien: Romulus manages to deliver a compelling narrative driven by strong performances from its cast. Cailee Spaeny and David Jonsson shine in their roles as Rain and Andy, bringing depth and emotion to their characters’ journey. The supporting cast also delivers solid performances, adding layers to the story and creating a sense of camaraderie among the group of teens.
The film’s pacing is tight, with a two-hour runtime that keeps viewers engaged from start to finish. The tension builds steadily throughout the film, leading to a thrilling third act that will keep audiences on the edge of their seats. Álvarez’s direction keeps the action moving at a brisk pace, balancing moments of quiet reflection with intense sequences that ratchet up the suspense.
### Conclusion
In conclusion, Alien: Romulus offers a fresh take on the beloved Alien franchise, blending nostalgia with modern storytelling techniques to create a visually stunning and emotionally engaging film. While its reliance on references to past installments may be a point of contention for some viewers, the film’s strong performances and compelling narrative make it a worthwhile watch for fans of sci-fi horror. With its mix of old and new elements, Alien: Romulus succeeds in capturing the essence of the Alien universe while forging its path in the ever-evolving world of science fiction cinema.
