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Released on August 16, 2024, Alien: Romulus is the latest addition to the revered Alien franchise. Directed by Fede Álvarez and co-written with Rodo Sayagues, the film has generated buzz with its intriguing placement as an interquel between the original Alien (1979) and its sequel Aliens (1986).
Produced under the banners of Scott Free Productions and Brandywine Productions the film was developed after Disney's acquisition of 21st Century Fox signaling a fresh plot in the iconic series. The production of Alien: Romulus commenced under the direction of Fede Álvarez following his unique pitch that led to his selection as the film's writer and director. Principal photography took place in Budapest from March to July 2023 which adhered to a chronological shooting schedule that favored the use of practical effects to enhance authenticity.
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The film also saw the return of some technical crew members from the original Aliens ensuring continuity in the series' celebrated aesthetic. The visual effects were handled by Image Engine who are well known for their previous work on Alien: Ore (2019) providing visual consistency to the franchise's latest installment.
Cast members of Alien: Romulus and the characters they play
Alien: Romulus features a diverse cast that brings fresh faces and seasoned actors together under the dark and expansive umbrella of the Alien universe.
1. Cailee Spaeny: At the forefront is Cailee Spaeny who takes on the role of Rain. Spaeny, who is known for her dynamic performances in previous science fiction and drama films, steps into her character's shoes as the plot's lead to provide a mix of vulnerability and determination.
2. David Jonsson: David Jonsson is in the team as Andy, an android whose creation is intimately tied to Rain's backstory. Jonsson's portrayal of Andy is expected to challenge the typical boundaries of human-android interactions within the cinematic space and provide a deep look at artificial intelligence.
It's not further from the truth that his character's development is one to watch especially considering the complicated emotional and ethical decisions that often accompany such roles in science fiction plots.
3. Archie Renaux and Isabela Merced: Brother-sister duo Tyler and Kay are portrayed by Archie Renaux and Isabela Merced respectively. Renaux who has previously impressed audiences with his roles in the young adult series Shadow and Bone brings a mix of youthful exuberance and a growing sense of responsibility to his character.
Merced, on the other hand, is no stranger to action-packed scenes and delivers a strong performance as Kay whose relationship with her brother is a heartfelt element to the tension-filled plot.
4. Spike Fearn: Spike Fearn's character Bjorn, who is Tyler and Kay's cousin, brings a twist to the family dynamics aboard the space station giving the story a familial bond and conflict in the face of alien threats. Fearn’s character is expected to bring a rugged charm and a survivalist’s pragmatism to the screen.
5. Aileen Wu: Aileen Wu, playing Navarro, Bjorn's girlfriend and the group's pilot, rounds out the main cast whose character is crucial in going through the complicated human relationships that unfold as the plot progresses.
Supporting roles are peppered with talent as well, with Rosie Ede, Soma Simon, Bence Okeke, Viktor Orizu, and others making brief but memorable appearances.
What is Alien: Romulus about?
Alien: Romulus plants its story firmly between the chilling events of Alien (1979) and Aliens (1986) which focuses on a group of youthful space colonists. The film kicks off as these explorers, who are eager to scrape together resources, stumble upon a derelict space station and their mission takes a dark turn when they encounter a xenomorph, sparking a desperate struggle for survival.
This fresh chapter in the Alien franchise introduces new characters who must go through the physical dangers of space and their interpersonal dynamics and the psychological terror of facing the unknown.
Alien: Romulus was released on August 16 and is currently playing in theaters.
