Ridley Scott has announced that he’s working on a new Alien film for 20th Century Studios, which will likely serve as the highly anticipated Alien Romulus sequel. Following the success of Alien: Romulus, which debuted on August 12, 2024, Scott hinted that this next installment is moving forward, likely under the title Romulus 2. The film’s box office success has set the stage for Scott and 20th Century Studios to further explore the terrifying universe.
An interview with The Hollywood Reporter recently revealed that Scott dropped the news without many specifics. However, it’s rumored that director Fede Álvarez, who helmed Alien: Romulus, is set to return. Álvarez’s direction of the first Romulus film was praised for its horror-centric focus, and he’s expected to bring the same intensity to this next chapter.
Ridley Scott’s Frustration Over Alien Franchise Ownership
During the interview, Scott expressed frustration over the limited control he’s had over the Alien and Blade Runner franchises, explaining that decisions made by former management within his production company prevented him from securing full ownership. He shared his regret, noting, “I should have locked them up, as [Steven] Spielberg did with Jurassic Park, and everything he does, and James Cameron has done with Avatar.”
Despite directing the original Alien film in 1979 and producing and directing various installments over the years, Scott found himself navigating a franchise without full ownership. This lack of control has influenced his determination to steer the Alien Romulus sequel in a direction true to his original vision, embracing the themes and horror elements that fans love. His production role in Alien: Romulus and his involvement in the upcoming sequel illustrate his commitment to reestablishing the terrifying allure that Alien represents to sci-fi and horror fans worldwide.
A Return to Form: Alien Romulus’ Success and What It Means for the Sequel
Alien: Romulus, produced by Scott and released in August 2024, exceeded box office expectations by bringing in $350 million globally. The film’s raw, horror-centric approach was praised by fans and critics alike, many of whom felt it recaptured the franchise’s original terror and tension. In IGN’s review, the film scored an impressive 8/10, with critics praising it as a “brutal, nerve-wracking experience” that returned to the core elements of horror that define the franchise.
Following its impressive performance, Alien: Romulus is now set to be released across various physical and digital formats, including a retro VHS version, paying homage to the franchise’s long-standing cultural impact. With the positive response to Romulus, Scott and 20th Century Studios are optimistic about the Alien Romulus sequel, with plans to build on the horror-driven narrative while continuing to explore the enigmatic and deadly universe that Alien fans crave.
Fede Álvarez and the Directorial Vision for the Alien Romulus Sequel
Álvarez’s direction in Alien: Romulus won over fans who appreciated the film’s straightforward horror approach, reminiscent of the original Alien movie. Having previously worked on horror films like Evil Dead and Don’t Breathe, Álvarez brought his unique expertise in suspense and horror to Romulus. His style complemented Scott’s vision of raw and minimalist terror, creating an atmosphere that keeps audiences on edge.
Reports suggest that Álvarez will return as director for the Alien Romulus sequel, continuing the cinematic style that made Romulus a hit. If confirmed, Álvarez’s return would be welcome news for fans who hope to see the franchise dive deeper into the horror genre, focusing less on complex mythology and more on the primal fear that Alien initially instilled in audiences.
The Alien Universe: Building on a Complex Legacy
Since Scott’s original Alien debuted in 1979, the series has evolved in various directions, exploring different aspects of the xenomorphs, Weyland-Yutani Corporation, and the broader universe. After the original, films like Aliens (1986) directed by James Cameron brought action elements to the franchise, while David Fincher’s Alien 3 (1992) and Jean-Pierre Jeunet’s Alien Resurrection (1997) offered darker, unique interpretations. However, Scott returned to the director’s chair for Prometheus (2012) and Alien: Covenant (2017), where he explored the origins of the xenomorphs, adding layers of philosophical complexity to the series.
With Alien: Romulus, Scott seemed to return to the series’ horror roots, focusing less on the scientific and philosophical backstory and more on the suspense and terror of facing an unknown predator. The success of this approach indicates that audiences are eager for more straightforward, horror-driven Alien narratives—a sentiment that could shape the direction of the Alien Romulus sequel.
What Fans Can Expect in the Alien Romulus Sequel
The Alien Romulus sequel is likely to delve deeper into the terrifying elements that Romulus established, perhaps bringing new, formidable threats to the story. With Scott’s focus on authenticity and a return to the core horror that fans enjoy, the sequel may offer a survival narrative where characters are pitted against the unforgiving xenomorphs in even more claustrophobic and high-stakes settings.
Though the plot remains under wraps, the Alien Romulus sequel could continue exploring the survival-horror formula, showcasing the relentlessness of the xenomorphs and the struggle for survival in hostile environments. Given Scott’s commitment to practical effects and immersive set designs, fans can expect the film to build a rich, visually intense atmosphere that places viewers right into the terror of the Alien universe.
Anticipation Builds for the Alien Romulus Sequel
The prospect of an Alien Romulus sequel has already sparked excitement among fans, with many eager to see how Scott and Álvarez plan to expand on Romulus‘s success. The franchise’s journey from sci-fi horror classic to modern-day blockbuster has been marked by a complex mix of narratives, characters, and creative visions, but with Scott’s renewed involvement and Álvarez’s directorial return, the sequel seems positioned to deliver an experience that is both terrifying and loyal to the original horror roots of Alien.
As production moves forward, Scott and his team will likely keep details close, building suspense as fans anticipate the next chapter. If the success of Alien: Romulus is any indicator, the sequel has the potential to be another box-office hit, ensuring the Alien series continues its legacy in the sci-fi horror genre.
