At their best, the movies in the “Alien” franchise have represented distinctive visions from talented filmmakers, and not just rote brand extensions. Directors Ridley Scott, James Cameron, David Fincher and Jean-Pierre Jeunet all brought their unique perspectives to the original four “Alien” movies starring Sigourney Weaver, and Scott explored his particular philosophical interests with his prequels “Prometheus” and “Alien: Covenant.” Even the first “Alien vs. Predator” movie is clearly the work of lowbrow action auteur Paul W.S. Anderson.
Judged by that standard, director and co-writer Fede Alvarez’s “Alien: Romulus” (opening Friday in theaters) could be regarded as a disappointment. Although it’s mostly a standalone installment, “Romulus” is essentially a remix of the franchise’s greatest hits, reinterpreting themes, plot points and even lines of dialogue from previous “Alien” movies.
