The Alien franchise has been popular among sci-fi and horror fans since it began in 1979. With the recent release of Alien: Romulus in theaters, fans can’t wait to see the iconic Xenomorphs again and delve into the universe once again. But how should you watch these space thrillers? Never fear. There’s a guide that offers chronological viewing schedules in two ways – via release dates or the in-universe timelines.
Release Date Order
For first-time viewers or those who want to experience the franchise as it has evolved, the order of release dates is your best bet. Buckle up for a thrilling journey through space and terror:
1. Aliens (1979): Directed by Ridley Scott, this atmospheric masterpiece introduces us to the crew of the spaceship Nostromo. When they come across a mysterious distress signal, they unwittingly stumble upon a deadly life form of unknown origin.
2. Aliens (1986): 57 years after the first film, Ellen Ripley faces off against the alien queen on the terraforming planet LV-426. This action-packed and thrilling sequel expands the universe and increases the tension.
3. Alien 3 (1992): Ripley crashes in a space prison, Fiorina 161, where the alien threat continues. The fight for survival unfolds as the deadly creature hunts prisoners.
4. Alien Resurrection (1997): Two centuries after Ripley’s death, a human-alien hybrid clone appears. Chaos erupts as space pirates fight off invading aliens, including a queen embryo.
5. AVP: Alien vs. Predator (2004): This 2004 crossover film pits humans against Predators (also known as Yautja). Cults that worship the Predators sacrifice themselves to the Xenomorph queens, leading to a deadly battle for the ultimate prey.
6. Aliens vs. Predator: Requiem (2007): In the modern timeline, Aliens vs. Predator: Requiem picks up directly after AVP. The Predalien is wreaking havoc in a Colorado town, and a skilled Predator rushes in to clean up the mess.
7. Prometheus (2012): Oscar-winning director Ridley Scott returns with the star-studded prequel Prometheus. In the late 21st century, a cosmic journey leads the crew of the Prometheus to the beings who created humanity. Unfortunately, they also stumble upon the creators’ bioweapon – the Xenomorph.
8. Alien: Covenant (2017): This picks up where Prometheus left off. The colony ship Covenant stumbles upon David, the sole survivor of the Prometheus mission. At first they believe an unexplored realm to be paradise, but it quickly turns hostile when an alien threat prepares to attack.
9. Alien: Romulus (2024): Now let’s talk about Alien: Romulus. This standalone film directed by Fede Álvarez captures the dark sci-fi mood. Starring Cailee Spaeny, David Jonsson, Archie Renaux and Isabela Merced, it’s a thrilling encounter with the most terrifying life form in the universe.
ALSO READ: Who was Phil Donahue? Everything you need to know about the late host who dies at 88
Order in the universe
But wait, there’s more! If you’re a diehard fan craving deeper lore, consider watching the films in universe chronological order:
- Alien vs. Predator (2004)
- Alien vs. Predator: Requiem (2007)
- Prometheus (2012)
- Alien: Covenant (2017)
- Alien (1979)
- Alien: Romulus (2024)
- Aliens (1986)
- Alien 3 (1992)
- Alien Resurrection (1997)
Alien: Romulus is in theaters now. How would you like to watch this series?
ALSO READ: “Keep shining”: Kimora Lee Simmons pays tribute to her daughter Aoki Lee Simmons on her 22nd birthday with a heartfelt memory
