Navigating the Alien franchise’s chronology can be a terrifying ordeal in itself. But fear not, fledgling space marines! The definitive way to experience the cinematic journey of the Xenomorphs is through a chronological narrative approach, starting with the prequels Prometheus and Alien: Covenant, before venturing into the original Alien quadrilogy and beyond.
Unraveling the Xenomorph Mythos: A Step-by-Step Viewing Order
The Alien saga, a cornerstone of science fiction horror, has expanded significantly since Ridley Scott unleashed his iconic Xenomorph upon unsuspecting audiences in 1979. With prequels adding layers to the narrative and spin-offs exploring different facets of the universe, understanding the proper viewing sequence is crucial for appreciating the complete story arc. While release order has its nostalgic appeal, a chronological approach offers a deeper understanding of the Xenomorph’s origins and the events leading to the original Alien.
Here’s the recommended order:
- Prometheus (2012)
- Alien: Covenant (2017)
- Alien (1979)
- Aliens (1986)
- Alien 3 (1992)
- Alien Resurrection (1997)
This sequence allows you to witness the Engineer’s history, the creation of the Xenomorph bioweapon, and the subsequent spread of terror across the galaxy, culminating in the events surrounding Ellen Ripley and the Nostromo.
Why Chronological Order Matters
While release order provides the initial shock and slow reveal of the Xenomorph, chronological order offers a more cohesive and complete narrative. Witnessing the Engineer’s motivations and the experiments that birthed the Xenomorph before encountering it in Alien provides a richer understanding of the horror Ripley faces. Furthermore, it allows for a better appreciation of the themes of creation, evolution, and the dangers of unchecked ambition that permeate the entire saga. By understanding the “why” behind the Xenomorph’s existence, the “what” of Alien and its sequels becomes even more impactful.
Beyond the Core Films: Alternate Viewing Options
Beyond the core six films, there are other pieces of Alien media that fans might want to explore. These include comic books, novels, video games (like Alien: Isolation), and even crossovers like Alien vs. Predator. While not essential to understanding the main storyline, these offer expanded lore and different perspectives on the Alien universe.
However, the Alien vs. Predator films, while entertaining for some, are generally considered non-canon and separate from the main Alien storyline. Whether or not to include them in your viewing marathon is a matter of personal preference, but they won’t contribute to a deeper understanding of the Xenomorph’s origins or Ripley’s journey.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What about the Alien vs. Predator movies? Are they part of the Alien canon?
The Alien vs. Predator movies (Alien vs. Predator, 2004 and Alien vs. Predator: Requiem, 2007) are generally considered non-canon to the main Alien timeline. They exist in their own separate universe and are often disregarded by fans seeking a pure Alien experience. While they offer crossover action, they don’t significantly contribute to the overall narrative of the Xenomorph’s origins or the events surrounding Ellen Ripley.
Is Prometheus essential viewing for understanding Alien?
While Prometheus diverges from the direct horror of the original film, it’s now considered essential viewing for understanding the origins of the Xenomorph and the Engineers, the advanced alien race connected to its creation. It provides crucial context that enriches the viewing experience of the entire Alien saga.
Where does Alien: Covenant fit in? Should I watch it before or after Prometheus?
Alien: Covenant is the direct sequel to Prometheus and should be watched immediately after it. It continues the story of David 8, the android from Prometheus, and further explores the creation and evolution of the Xenomorph. It directly bridges the gap between Prometheus and the original Alien.
Will I be confused watching Prometheus and Alien: Covenant first?
While Prometheus and Alien: Covenant introduce new concepts and characters, they are designed to be understood without prior knowledge of the original Alien films. In fact, watching them first can provide a fresh perspective on the Xenomorph and its origins, making the original film even more impactful. Some might find the philosophical elements and slower pace of Prometheus initially challenging, but the payoff in understanding the bigger picture is well worth it.
What about the different cuts of the Alien movies? Which versions should I watch?
Many of the Alien films have different cuts, including director’s cuts and extended editions. The director’s cut of Alien (2003) is often preferred by fans, as it restores some excised scenes and offers a slightly different pacing. For Aliens, the special edition is generally recommended as it adds significant character development and backstory, enriching the overall experience. For Alien 3, opinions are divided, with some preferring the theatrical cut and others the assembly cut, which restores deleted scenes and presents a slightly different narrative. Ultimately, the choice is up to personal preference.
Is there any significance to the Alien short films released for the franchise’s anniversary?
Yes! The short films released for the Alien franchise’s 40th anniversary offer bite-sized glimpses into the Alien universe, showcasing different perspectives and survival stories. While not essential viewing, they provide interesting and often terrifying additions to the lore and can be a fun way to further immerse yourself in the world.
Why are some people so critical of Alien: Resurrection?
Alien: Resurrection is often criticized for its tonal shift away from the horror and suspense of the earlier films and towards more action-oriented science fiction. The resurrected Ripley clone and the hybrid Xenomorph are also controversial elements that some fans find jarring and inconsistent with the established lore.
Will there be more Alien movies in the future?
Yes, a new Alien film, Alien: Romulus, is currently in development and is slated for release in 2024. Directed by Fede Álvarez, it’s reportedly a standalone story set between Alien and Aliens, focusing on a group of young space colonizers who encounter a Xenomorph threat. This represents a promising return to the franchise’s horror roots.
Is Alien: Isolation canon?
While not directly referenced in the films, Alien: Isolation, a survival horror video game, is considered soft canon. It’s set fifteen years after Alien and focuses on Amanda Ripley, Ellen Ripley’s daughter, as she investigates the disappearance of the Nostromo. The game is highly regarded for its atmosphere, its faithfulness to the original film, and its terrifying portrayal of the Xenomorph.
Is there a definitive answer to how the Xenomorph was created?
While Prometheus and Alien: Covenant shed light on the Xenomorph’s origins, the exact details of its creation remain somewhat ambiguous. The films suggest that the Engineers created a bioweapon, likely involving the black goo substance, that ultimately led to the Xenomorph. David 8, the android in Prometheus and Alien: Covenant, also played a significant role in further experimenting with and refining the Xenomorph design. Ultimately, the Xenomorph’s origins are a complex and evolving mystery.
Should I watch in chronological order even if I’m introducing someone to the franchise for the first time?
For newcomers, release order might be more engaging initially. The suspense and gradual reveal of the Xenomorph in Alien and Aliens can be a more captivating introduction. However, after experiencing the original films, watching the prequels in chronological order can provide a deeper understanding of the universe and its lore. Therefore, the best approach might be a hybrid: release order for the first two films, then switch to chronological.
Are the books and comics worth reading?
Absolutely! The Alien expanded universe, including novels and comics, offers a wealth of additional stories and lore for dedicated fans. They explore different characters, settings, and aspects of the Xenomorph’s biology and behavior. While the canonicity of these stories can be debated, they provide a rich and immersive experience for those seeking to delve deeper into the Alien universe. Many of these stories are well-written and compelling, offering unique perspectives and expanding the scope of the Alien saga.