Alien Movies in Order to Watch

Welcome to the Ultimate Guide on How to Watch the Alien Movies!

The Alien franchise, a cornerstone of the sci-fi genre, has captivated audiences with its thrilling blend of horror and science fiction since its inception. From the haunting corridors of the Nostromo to the epic battles on distant worlds, the series has expanded into a rich tapestry of storytelling. Whether you’re a seasoned fan or a newcomer to the saga, this guide will help you navigate the movies in Chronological, Release, and Machete order. We’ll also sprinkle in some fun facts about the actors and highlight the main cast for each film. So, buckle up for an interstellar adventure!

Understanding the Alien Franchise

Before diving into the different viewing orders, let’s take a moment to appreciate the significance of the Alien series. Created by Ridley Scott, Alien (1979) set a new standard for sci-fi horror, introducing audiences to the terrifying Xenomorphs and the iconic character Ellen Ripley, portrayed by Sigourney Weaver. The series explores themes of corporate greed, survival, and the unknown horrors of space, making it an enduring favorite.

Watching Order Options

Chronological Order

If you’re interested in following the story from a timeline perspective, the chronological order might be your choice. Here’s how it unfolds:

1. Prometheus (2012)
   • Synopsis: Set in 2093, this prequel explores the origins of humanity and the connection to the deadly Xenomorph species. A team of explorers discovers a clue to the origins of mankind on Earth, leading them on a journey to the darkest corners of the universe.
   • Fun Fact: Charlize Theron, who plays Meredith Vickers, performed most of her own stunts in the film.
   • Main Cast: Noomi Rapace, Michael Fassbender, Charlize Theron
2. Alien: Covenant (2017)
   • Synopsis: The crew of the colony ship Covenant discovers a remote planet with a dark secret. The film delves deeper into the origins of the Xenomorphs.
   • Fun Fact: Michael Fassbender had to play dual roles as David and Walter, showcasing his incredible versatility.
   • Main Cast: Michael Fassbender, Katherine Waterston, Billy Crudup
3. Alien (1979)
   • Synopsis: The crew of the Nostromo encounters a deadly alien species after responding to a distress signal on a remote planet.
   • Fun Fact: Sigourney Weaver’s role as Ripley was originally written for a male actor.
   • Main Cast: Sigourney Weaver, Tom Skerritt, John Hurt
4. Aliens (1986)
   • Synopsis: Ripley returns to the alien-infested colony on LV-426 with a team of marines. This action-packed sequel ramps up the tension and the stakes.
   • Fun Fact: Bill Paxton, who played Hudson, ad-libbed the iconic line, “Game over, man!”
   • Main Cast: Sigourney Weaver, Michael Biehn, Bill Paxton
5. Alien 3 (1992)
   • Synopsis: Ripley crash-lands on a prison planet, bringing the Xenomorph threat with her.
   • Fun Fact: This was David Fincher’s directorial debut, although he disowned the film due to studio interference.
   • Main Cast: Sigourney Weaver, Charles S. Dutton, Charles Dance
6. Alien: Resurrection (1997)
   • Synopsis: Set 200 years after Alien 3, Ripley is cloned and resurrected to battle a new generation of Xenomorphs.
   • Fun Fact: Winona Ryder, who plays Call, was a huge fan of the series and was thrilled to join the cast.
   • Main Cast: Sigourney Weaver, Winona Ryder, Ron Perlman
7. Alien: Romulus (2023)
   • Synopsis: The latest installment takes the saga to new depths, introducing a fresh crew facing unprecedented threats in the far reaches of space.
   • Fun Fact: The film showcases groundbreaking special effects, setting a new benchmark for the series.
   • Main Cast: [Insert latest cast details once publicly available]

Release Order

For a more nostalgic experience, you might prefer watching the films in the order they were released to audiences:

1. Alien (1979)
2. Aliens (1986)
3. Alien 3 (1992)
4. Alien: Resurrection (1997)
5. Prometheus (2012)
6. Alien: Covenant (2017)
7. Alien: Romulus (2023)

This order allows you to experience the evolution of the franchise in terms of storytelling, special effects, and thematic depth.

Machete Order

The Machete order offers a unique viewing experience, borrowing a concept from Star Wars fans. It focuses on preserving narrative surprises while maintaining a coherent storyline. In this case, start with:

1. Prometheus (2012)
2. Alien (1979)
3. Aliens (1986)
4. Alien: Covenant (2017)
5. Alien: Romulus (2023)
6. Alien: Resurrection (1997)
7. Alien 3 (1992)

This order keeps the suspense high and provides a fresh perspective on the series’ narrative arcs.

Conclusion

No matter which order you choose, the Alien franchise promises an unforgettable journey through space and suspense. Each film offers a unique chapter in the ongoing saga of humanity’s battle against the Xenomorphs, full of thrilling moments and unforgettable characters. Whether you’re revisiting the series for the umpteenth time or diving in for the first time, this guide will help you immerse yourself in the chilling, exhilarating world of Alien. Happy watching, and remember— in space, no one can hear you scream!

Alien: Romulus Trailer