All ‘Alien’ Movies Ranked from Worst to Best, Including ‘Alien: Romulus’

More than four decades after director Ridley Scott began the “Alien” franchise with the iconic 1979 film starring Sigourney Weaver, we’re still being treated to new movies set in that strange and terrifying universe. Throughout the years, esteemed directors like James Cameron (“Aliens”), David Fincher (“Alien 3”), and even Scott himself (“Prometheus”) have added their own chapters. Some installments, such as the “Alien vs. Predator” movies, veered towards the more outlandish spectrum.

Now, “Evil Dead” director Fede Álvarez has delivered another spine-tingling dose of extraterrestrial body horror with 2024’s “Alien: Romulus.” This latest chapter continues the legacy of terror that started over 40 years ago. Here’s how it ranks compared to the rest of the franchise.

In last place, “Alien vs. Predator: Requiem” (2007) is a dismal sequel. It was released during a lull in the franchise when Ridley Scott was busy with other endeavors like “Gladiator” and “American Gangster.” This movie appears to have been made solely to see the alien fight the Predator again, featuring low-grade special effects and a lack of star power. Fortunately, Scott later decided to make Alien prequels, saving the franchise from further downgrades.

Up next is “Alien: Resurrection” (1997), marking Sigourney Weaver’s final appearance as Ripley. This fourth installment tried to expand the franchise but was disappointing. Weaver’s disinterest in reprising her role as a cloned version of Ripley was evident, and Winona Ryder seemed out of place. However, the movie does boast performances from character actors like Ron Perlman and Brad Dourif.

In 2004, director Paul W.S. Anderson, known for the “Resident Evil” movies, oversaw “AVP: Alien vs. Predator.” Despite being about two iconic sci-fi characters facing off, it wasn’t very memorable. Still, it did well enough to warrant an even less memorable sequel three years later.

“Alien: Covenant” (2017) could have been a great addition to the franchise, especially considering its first 30 minutes feature some of the best moments from any “Alien” movie. Unfortunately, it faltered by focusing too much on David’s (Michael Fassbender) god complex. The film ignored Shaw’s (Noomi Rapace) storyline from “Prometheus” and offered limited alien screen time. Nevertheless, it deserves credit for its brutal “spine-burster” scene.

David Fincher’s “Alien 3” (1992) is often misunderstood. Picking up right after “Aliens,” it is a gritty and thrilling addition to the franchise. Sigourney Weaver delivers another powerful performance, and Charles S. Dutton steals every scene he is in.

Ridley Scott returned with “Prometheus” (2012), a prequel that delves into the origins of the “Alien” universe. Noomi Rapace shines as Shaw, a scientist seeking answers in a deeply unsettling narrative. The film offers some genuine existential horror, although its connection to the original “Alien” franchise is somewhat convoluted. And, of course, there’s the questionable decision by Charlize Theron’s character during a pivotal scene.

“Alien: Romulus” (2024) is a new addition by Fede Álvarez. The movie follows a group of teens on a hellish mining colony who venture to a nearby space station. Soon, xenomorph-induced chaos ensues. Utilizing practical effects and detailed creature designs, Álvarez successfully horrifies the audience, setting a new benchmark in the franchise. Though it starts slow, the character development pays off when the gore and horror escalate dramatically in the latter half.

“Aliens” (1986) by James Cameron is a legendary piece of sci-fi action, successfully continuing the story from the original film while introducing new elements. This installment leans more towards action, creating a well-paced adventure. Sigourney Weaver’s reprisal as Ripley earned her a Best Actress nomination, solidifying her character’s iconic status.

However, nothing beats Ridley Scott’s original “Alien” (1979). This classic initiated a beloved franchise that continues to awe and terrify to this day. Sigourney Weaver’s Ripley became one of modern cinema’s most memorable female roles, and John Hurt’s chestburster scene remains one of the most unforgettable moments in movie history.

Source: Business Insider