Beautiful visuals and tension in an overall decent Alien film (spoiler-free review, spoilers in thread)
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Neomorph
MemberChestbursterAugust 14, 2024If you try to please everyone you'll end up pleasing no one. This is one, although harsh way to describe Romulus that on one hand delivers on spectacular effects, action and tension but also buckles under the weight of all the fan-service.
You have an original story at its core standing on strong legs, with some interesting world building, a young group seeking to leave the toxic and harsh world they live in, and a plan as straightforward as a narrative that actually follows its course. Where the legs begin to wobble however, is when you realize that several parts of the journey, be it dialogue or scenes, are vaguely inspired from, very similar to, or downright blatantly copied straight from all previous Alien films (barring AvP) into a sort if best-of-all Alien experience. To put it short, it borrows a lot from its older brothers but does that mean that the film is bad?
Absolutely not. All the unnecessary nods aside, we still have a thrilling ride and a race against time. Some scenes may feel a bit rushed and make little sense but it's all well shot with overall good acting. This is a film that could really benefit with some extended scenes.
If I hadn't watched any of the previous films I'd likely view Romulus from a completely different perspective. As it is, it's an okay Alien film. Just pe prepared that you'll be familiar.