Fede Álvarez on "Alien: Romulus": How the Film Bridged Franchise Timelines and Embraced All "Alien" Films

Fede Álvarez, known for his impactful remakes and thrillers, is stepping into the “Alien” franchise with his latest project, Alien: Romulus. This new installment not only continues the iconic series but also aims to unify its complex timeline. Originally slated for a Hulu release in 2022, the film has since transitioned to a theatrical debut, reflecting a shift in distribution strategies post-pandemic.

Álvarez, whose previous works include a remake of Sam Raimi’s Evil Dead and the Don’t Breathe series, brings a fresh perspective to the beloved franchise. Alien: Romulus is set approximately 20 years after Ridley Scott’s original film, bridging the gap between Scott’s classic and James Cameron’s sequel. The director skillfully balances homage with innovation, blending elements from the franchise’s past with a modern twist to captivate both long-time fans and new audiences.

Álvarez, alongside co-writer Rodo Sayagues, approached the project with a desire to respect and integrate the entire franchise’s history. “We wanted this movie to be ‘the one ring that bonds them all together’,” Álvarez explains, referencing his goal of honoring every installment, regardless of its reception. He believes that embracing all previous films, even the less celebrated ones, is crucial in presenting a cohesive narrative.

The film’s transition from streaming to theaters was a significant shift, motivated by the realization of its ambitious scope. “It was always going to be an ambitious movie for [a streaming] platform,” Álvarez notes, reflecting on the initial pandemic-era decision. The excitement among the crew for a theatrical release was palpable, demonstrating the project’s larger-than-life aspirations.

Alien: Romulus is designed to resonate with a new generation while paying tribute to the franchise’s roots. Álvarez emphasizes that his approach is less about replicating past aesthetics and more about capturing the essence of what made the original films exciting. “I’m not trying to remake the movie; I’m trying to remake the experience,” he asserts.

As Alien: Romulus prepares to hit theaters, Álvarez’s goal remains clear: to remind audiences why the “Alien” series is both iconic and thrilling. By connecting the dots across the franchise’s history and offering a fresh take, he hopes to reaffirm the series’ enduring appeal.