The Bite Magazine - Spring/Summer 2024 - Issue 35

bitefilms lien W hen you thought the silent screams had ended in space, Alien: Romulus brings a fresh yet terrifying chapter to the iconic Alien franchise. The film, direct- ed by Fede Álvarez, known for his work on Don’t Breathe and the 2013 Evil Dead reboot and produced by original director Ridley Scott, delves back into the horror roots that made the original so impactful. The seventh instalment, set in a dystopian future, explores the unending terror of the Xenomorphs, bringing new twists to the franchise’s mythos. The storyline follows a group of space colonists on a remote plan- et, Romulus, as they uncover a dormant Alien hive. Alien: Romu- lus’ pacing is relentless, keeping audiences on edge with a blend of suspenseful build-up and sudden, horrifying encounters. Ál- varez creates an atmosphere of claustrophobia and dread, ech- oing Ridley Scott’s 1979 original. The film’s visual style is gritty and dark, emphasising the characters’ isolation and vulnerability. One of the film’s strengths is its practical effects and creature design, which hark back to the franchise’s roots. The Xenom- orphs are terrifying with a visceral presence. The sound design and score further enhance the tensions, making every creak and hiss an ominous prelude to terror. Whilst respecting its predeces- sor’s legacy, the film introduces new elements that reinvigorate the franchise. Fans of the original will appreciate the return to horror, while new viewers will find an intense and thrilling sci-fi experience. Release Date: 16 August 2024 www.20thcenturystudios.com/movies/alien-romulus omulus