In an age where every other week seems to bring us a new contender for “film of the year,” it’s a bold statement to declare a movie as the best of the year. Yet, that’s exactly what’s happening with Alien: Romulus. According to the early reactions making waves across social media (via Cosmic Book News), this latest entry in the legendary Alien franchise is not just good—it’s being hailed as the best movie of 2024. And let’s be honest, that’s no small feat in a year packed with blockbusters.
https://twitter.com/EscapePodcastAA/status/1821821520831987776
The news of Alien: Romulus’s acclaim was first reported by Cosmic Book News, where the headline alone is enough to pique the interest of any cinephile or sci-fi enthusiast. “The best movie of the year” is a bold claim, but judging by the effusive praise from early viewers, it seems this film is more than living up to the hype. Naturally, as a long-time fan of the franchise and a lover of all things horror and sci-fi, I couldn’t resist diving into the buzz myself.
A Return to the Franchise’s Roots
Credit: 20th Century Studios
READ MORE: Ridley Scott’s Reaction To The New Alien Movie Is Very Positive
So, what is it about Alien: Romulus that has audiences raving? For starters, the film is said to take the franchise back to its roots—something fans have been clamouring for since the early 2000s. The original Alien (1979), directed by Ridley Scott, set the bar for sci-fi horror, with its terrifyingly claustrophobic atmosphere and iconic creature design. However, as the series progressed, some fans felt it lost some of that original magic in favour of more expansive and action-oriented sequels.
#AlienRomulus The bitch is back. Was skeptical going in, but this is easily one of the better films in the franchise. Fede Álvarez doesn't disappoint. Awesome sound design and world-building. The practical effects are so good that the film gave me nightmares. pic.twitter.com/Z46KNWxYhn
— Jazz Tangcay (@jazzt) August 9, 2024
Alien: Romulus, directed by Fede Álvarez, the mastermind behind Evil Dead and Don’t Breathe, appears to have struck the perfect balance between reverence for the original and introducing fresh elements to the franchise. Early reactions praise Álvarez for his ability to create a tense, gripping atmosphere reminiscent of Scott’s original vision, while also bringing his unique flair to the table.
The plot centres around a group of young space colonizers who, while scavenging a derelict space station, come face to face with the most terrifying life form in the universe. If that premise doesn’t send shivers down your spine, the execution surely will. The word on the street is that Alien: Romulus is not just another horror film; it’s a masterclass in building suspense and delivering gut-wrenching scares.
The Buzz from Early Reactions
Credit: 20th Century Studios
READ MORE: James Cameron Has Seen Alien: Romulus And He’s A Big Fan
Social media has been flooded with glowing reviews, and some of the comments are enough to make any fan sit up and take notice. The Escape Podcast, for instance, tweeted, “Ladies and Gentlemen, Alien Romulus is by far the best movie of the year. It’s the best in the franchise, and may be my new favourite horror.” Now, that’s a pretty hefty endorsement, especially considering the film hasn’t even officially hit theatres yet.
ALIEN: ROMULUS is incredible. Insane practical effects (a truly wretched human-alien transformation) and an unexpected third act musical number that has no reason to work but completely does. Spaeny screams, fights, dances, and sings herself into the Final Girl Hall of Fame. pic.twitter.com/CoYJ1D9Thi
— Weyland-Yutani.com/jobs (@HoleAndOates) August 9, 2024
Another user on X (formerly Twitter) commented, “Was sceptical going in, but this is easily one of the better films in the franchise. Fede Álvarez doesn’t disappoint.” That’s another win for Álvarez, who has proven time and again that he knows how to handle horror with finesse.
It’s clear that Alien: Romulus is not just being lauded as a great film within the Alien series, but as a standout in the broader landscape of 2024’s cinematic offerings. The film’s ability to resonate with audiences who were initially sceptical is a testament to its quality. And let’s not forget, this is a franchise with some seriously big shoes to fill. The fact that Alien: Romulus is being praised as potentially the best in the series is enough to send a thrill of excitement through any fan.
What This Means for the Alien Franchise
Credit: 20th Century Studios
READ MORE: Alien: Romulus First Look Shows Terrifying Facehuggers At CinemaCon 2024
The success of Alien: Romulus could mark a significant turning point for the franchise. After all, it’s been a rollercoaster of a journey for the Alien series over the years. From the heights of Ridley Scott’s original to the polarising reception of Prometheus and Alien: Covenant, the franchise has had its fair share of ups and downs. But with Alien: Romulus, it seems that we may finally have a film that not only lives up to the original but also sets the stage for future instalments.
#ALIENROMULUS is one of the movies of the year omg..
The most insane final act of a film I think I've ever seen.. pic.twitter.com/Px8rhwFqAn
— Big Screen Berkan (@BigScreenBerkan) August 9, 2024
The decision to bring in Álvarez as director was a stroke of genius. His ability to merge the visceral horror elements that made the original Alien so terrifying with the modern sensibilities of today’s horror films has clearly paid off. It’s a film that respects its roots while also daring to take the franchise in new and exciting directions. If Alien: Romulus is as good as the early reactions suggest, we could be looking at a new era for the Alien franchise—one that combines the best of the old with the thrill of the new.
My Personal Take on Alien: Romulus
Credit: 20th Century Studios
READ MORE: Sigourney Weaver’s Ripley Returning To The Big Screen Ahead Of Alien: Romulus Release
As someone who grew up watching the original Alien films, I’ve always had a deep affection for the series. There’s something about the perfect blend of science fiction and horror that just hits the spot for me. So, when I heard that Alien: Romulus was being hailed as the best movie of the year, I was both excited and a little nervous. Could it really live up to the hype?
more initial thoughts on #AlienRomulus (no spoilers)
it truly has a perfect mix of the horror elements you loved from the 1979 original and the badass set pieces from Aliens (ambiance, tension and buildup, sound design, sets all on point)
really happy they chose to go with… pic.twitter.com/F1s5nGdsaP
— TropicalJoe (@imTropicalJoe) August 9, 2024
Well, based on everything I’ve seen and read, it seems like the answer is a resounding yes. From the atmospheric tension to the intense performances, it sounds like Alien: Romulus is everything I’ve been hoping for and more. I can’t wait to experience it for myself when it hits theatres next week.
There’s a special kind of thrill that comes from watching a film that not only meets your expectations but exceeds them, and it looks like Alien: Romulus is set to do just that. Whether you’re a die-hard fan of the franchise or someone who’s just looking for a great horror film, this is one movie you won’t want to miss.
Final Thoughts on Alien: Romulus
Credit: 20th Century Studios
READ MORE: Alien: Romulus Will Bring The Franchise Back To Its Horror Roots
In a year filled with incredible films, Alien: Romulus is making its mark as a standout. The early reactions calling it the best movie of the year are more than just hyperbole—they’re a testament to the film’s quality and its ability to resonate with audiences. Fede Álvarez has crafted a film that not only honours the legacy of the original Alien but also pushes the franchise into exciting new territory.
If the early buzz is any indication, Alien: Romulus is not just a must-see for fans of the franchise—it’s a must-see for anyone who loves great cinema. So, mark your calendars, because this is one cinematic experience you won’t want to miss.
