The Alien Franchise: A Complex Timeline and Legacy
The Alien franchise has captivated audiences for over 40 years, with a unique aesthetic inspired by the works of H.R. Giger and early science fiction. The series has spawned multiple films, books, games, and merchandise, with the titular “alien” becoming a sci-fi horror icon.
The franchise is divided into three quadrants, with the first four films following a straight-line narrative centered on Ellen Ripley (Sigourney Weaver) within the world of the Xenomorphs. The subsequent two entries, Alien vs. Predator and Alien vs. Predator: Requiem, break away from the story of the first Alien movie, taking place in the present day and directly crossing over with the Predator franchise.
The Alien movies in release order are:
1. Alien (1979) – 93%
2. Aliens (1986) – 98%
3. Alien 3 (1992) – 48%
4. Alien: Resurrection (1997) – 54%
5. AVP: Alien Vs. Predator (2004) – 22%
6. Alien vs. Predator: Requiem (2007) – 12%
7. Prometheus (2012) – 73%
8. Alien: Covenant (2017) – 65%
9. Alien: Romulus (2024) – 80%
The franchise has explored the origins of the Xenomorph in the prequel films Prometheus and Alien: Covenant, but the most recent movie, Alien: Romulus, returned to the timeline of the original series.
Watching the Alien movies in release order is the best way to experience the franchise, as it allows viewers to follow the arc of Ellen Ripley and appreciate the slow-burn reveal in Alien. The release order also provides a sense of the filmmakers’ intentions, which may be lost when watching the movies in chronological order.
The future of the Alien franchise is bright, with a sequel to Alien: Romulus already in the works and a possible crossover with the Predator franchise. Director Fede Alvarez has hinted at a bolder take on the sequel and is open to expanding the franchise in exciting new ways.
