The Ultimate Guide to Watching the ‘Alien’ Movies in Chronological Order
The world of science fiction, horror movies, and action flicks has been enriched by the legendary Alien franchise for over four decades. It all began in 1979 with the release of the first film, directed by Ridley Scott, which remains a masterpiece to this day. The film’s ability to maintain tension and thrills after almost fifty years is a testament to its enduring appeal. A key factor in the film’s success is the atmosphere it creates, with only glimpses of the terrifying titular creature, keeping audiences on edge with the fear of the unknown.
As the Alien franchise evolved, director James Cameron took over for the second installment, Aliens, in 1986, expanding the world and ambition of the series. Scott returned to the franchise in 2012 and 2017 with a pair of prequels, Prometheus and Alien: Covenant, delving deeper into the world of the Weyland company. In 2024, Alien: Romulus, directed by Fede Álvarez, fills the gap between Alien and Aliens with a fresh perspective on the franchise and filmmaking.
The future of the Alien universe looks promising, with Noah Hawley working on an Alien series for FX titled Alien: Earth, set to debut in 2025. However, before delving into the Alien movies, it’s essential to understand the best order to watch them for the optimal viewing experience.
Watching the Alien Movies in Chronological Order
If you’re considering watching the Alien movies in chronological order, the timeline would start with Prometheus (2012) followed by Alien: Covenant (2017), Alien (1979), Alien: Romulus (2024), Aliens (1986), Alien 3 (1991), and Alien: Resurrection (1997). However, it’s important to note that this order might spoil key reveals and references from the original films, as the newer movies assume viewers have seen and understood the previous entries.
For a more rewarding viewing experience, it’s recommended to watch the Alien movies in the order they were released in theaters. This approach allows viewers to appreciate the evolution of the franchise and the interconnected narratives. Similar to the Marvel Cinematic Universe and Star Wars, watching the Alien movies in release order provides a comprehensive understanding of the storyline and characters.
The Best Order to Watch the Alien Movies
1. **Alien (1979)**: The film that started it all, directed by Ridley Scott, introduces audiences to the iconic character Ripley and the terrifying Xenomorphs. Set in 2122, the movie is a masterclass in tension and horror.
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2. **Aliens (1986)**: Directed by James Cameron, this sequel takes place 50 years after the events of Alien, offering a wider scope of story and more intense action sequences. Set in 2179, the film showcases Ripley in a new setting aboard a space station.
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3. **Alien 3 (1992)**: Continuing the story in 2179 immediately after Aliens, this installment, directed by David Fincher, explores a darker and more bleak narrative. Despite the director’s discontent with the final product, Alien 3 remains a significant chapter in the franchise.
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4. **Alien: Resurrection (1997)**: Set around 200 years after Alien 3, this film follows a cloned Ripley as she battles against the Xenomorphs. Featuring a stellar cast including Winona Ryder and Ron Perlman, the movie adds a unique twist to the Alien saga.
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5. **Prometheus (2012)**: Directed by Ridley Scott, Prometheus serves as a prequel to the original Alien, exploring the origins of the Xenomorphs. Set in the late 21st century, the film delves into existential themes with a stellar ensemble cast.
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6. **Alien: Covenant (2017)**: A sequel to Prometheus and a prequel to Alien, Covenant blends thrilling action with philosophical undertones. Directed by Ridley Scott, the movie features a talented cast led by Michael Fassbender and Katherine Waterston.
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7. **Alien: Romulus (2024)**: Set between the events of Alien and Aliens, this installment directed by Fede Álvarez bridges the gap with familiar characters and exciting action. The film introduces a new generation of heroes while paying homage to the franchise’s roots.
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By following this order, viewers can fully immerse themselves in the rich narrative and world-building of the Alien franchise. Each movie contributes to the overarching story, offering unique perspectives on the enduring battle against the Xenomorphs.
Remember, the Alien movies are best enjoyed in the order they were released, allowing audiences to appreciate the evolution of the series and the impact of each installment on the overarching storyline. So grab some popcorn, dim the lights, and prepare for an unforgettable journey through the terrifying world of Alien.
