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Learn moreApril 26th is Alien Day, which was established by 20th Century Fox in 2016. The holiday is timed to coincide with the 30th anniversary of the release of James Cameron's film "Aliens." The date was chosen for a reason: LV-426 is the designation of the planet on which the heroes of the first film arrived and where the events of the second part of the franchise unfold. The number 426 symbolizes the fourth month (April) and the number 26, which makes this day especially significant for fans of science fiction and the Alien universe.
On this day, the studio, together with partner companies and franchises, often presents limited collections of various goods - comics, audiobooks, and collectible figures. In 2019, a unique line of sneakers was released by Reebok, inspired by the image of the main character of the first films, Ellen Ripley. These special editions not only attract fans, but also become valuable collector's items, significantly increasing interest in the franchise.
The celebration includes not only physical releases, but also exclusive announcements, competitions, and the return of classic films from the franchise to theaters.
Alien Day is the perfect opportunity to re-immerse yourself in the atmosphere of the dystopian future or get acquainted with the cult series for the first time if for some reason you haven’t seen any of the parts yet. The first film was released in 1979 and became a landmark work in the horror genre, as well as one of the best films about encounters with aliens. Since then, an extensive universe has formed around this franchise, including numerous films, books, comics, and video games. In 2024, Hulu announced a new series that promises to expand the Alien mythology and attract new fans.
Navigating through the plethora of Alien-inspired material can be overwhelming for the uninitiated. In this article, we'll try to demystify the confusing timeline of the Alien universe and create a handy checklist for those planning to celebrate Alien Day.
A whole day isn't enough to get acquainted with all the works created within the Alien franchise or based on it. However, it's worth the effort. The Alien universe features numerous films, books, and comics that expand and deepen the mythology of this universe. Diving into these works will allow you to better understand the unique atmosphere and philosophy established by the creators. Even a brief overview of the main films and their plotlines can give an idea of the franchise's development and its influence on the science fiction genre.
In this article, we will not cover the Alien vs. Predator spin-offs and their sequels, as their events have only a tenuous connection to the main universe. The focus will be on the key films and characters that shape the franchise's unique atmosphere and storyline.
Have a movie marathon - watch all the Alien films in order
The core franchise consists of six films, which will take over 12 hours to watch. This is the perfect offer for dedicated fans looking to immerse themselves in the world of this story.
The films can be watched either in the order of their release or according to the chronology of the franchise's events, which we will discuss later. The choice of approach depends on the viewer's preferences, and both options have their advantages.
Year of release: 1979. This year became a landmark in history, marking the beginning of new cultural and technological changes. In the world of cinema, music and art, 1979 gave audiences a number of significant works that remain relevant to this day. Films released that year continue to inspire new creators, and music hits from 1979 are still heard on radio stations and playlists. This period was also marked by the development of technology, which had an impact on various areas of life. 1979 became the starting point for many changes that defined the future for decades to come.
The duration of the video is 1 hour 57 minutes.
Director Ridley Scott is one of the most influential and respected masters of modern cinema. His works span various genres, including science fiction, historical dramas and thrillers. Scott is known for his unique style that combines visual aesthetics and a deep storyline. Films such as «Alien», «Gladiator» and "Prometheus," have become classics and have had a significant impact on the film industry. Ridley Scott continues to be active, creating new projects that attract the attention of audiences and critics around the world.
The IMDb rating is 8.5. This indicator indicates a high rating for a film or TV series, received by audiences and critics. A high IMDb rating often indicates quality content, an interesting plot, and strong acting. If you are looking for recommendations for highly rated movies or TV series, IMDb can be a reliable source of information.
The beginning of Ellen Ripley's strong connection with xenomorphs of various kinds. The role of the officer of the space tug "Nostromo" brought actress Sigourney Weaver huge opportunities in the film industry, and the film itself has gained a cult status among science fiction fans over time. The film became not only a seminal work of the genre, but also a milestone in Weaver's career, solidifying her position as one of the leading actresses of her time.
Year of release: 1986. This year was a significant event in the world of cinema, music, and technology. 1986 saw the release of many cult films that remain popular to this day. It was also a time when the music industry was undergoing transformation, with the emergence of new genres and artists. In addition, 1986 marked important advances in technology, including the development of personal computers and the beginning of the widespread use of software. This year left an indelible mark on history that continues to influence modern society.
The running time is 2 hours and 17 minutes.
Director: James Cameron. James Cameron is a prominent director, screenwriter, and producer known for his groundbreaking science fiction and action films. His works, such as Titanic and Avatar, have not only won numerous awards but also changed the approach to filmmaking by introducing the latest visual effects technologies. Cameron is also known for his attention to detail and immersion in the themes he explores in his works. His unique style and ability to create gripping stories make him one of the most influential directors of our time.
The film has an IMDb rating of 8.4. This indicator indicates the high level of appreciation of the film by audiences and critics. A high IMDb rating can attract the attention of potential viewers and increase interest in a work. Films with an 8.4 rating often stand out from the crowd, making them noticeable in the film world. If you're looking for quality content to watch, films with this rating can be an excellent choice.
Director Ridley Scott was replaced by James Cameron, who was invited to create the film after the success of "Terminator". "Aliens" is considered by many to be an outstanding sequel, distinguished by the technical excellence characteristic of all Cameron's works. The film received seven Oscar nominations and won two statuettes: for Best Sound Editing and Best Visual Effects.
Year of release: 1992. This year became significant in history, as it marked many important events and changes in various fields. In 1992, significant cultural and technological transformations took place that influenced the further development of society. In the fields of cinema and music, iconic works were released that remain relevant to this day. In addition, 1992 marked the beginning of new trends in fashion and art, which reflected changes in the public consciousness and worldview of people of that time. Thus, 1992 left a noticeable mark on history and continues to arouse interest among researchers and culture lovers.
The duration of this event is 1 hour 54 minutes.
Director David Fincher is one of the most influential and talented filmmakers of our time. His unique style, attention to detail, and ability to create tense plots have made his works iconic. Fincher is known for films such as Fight Club, The Social Network, and Seven, which not only won critical acclaim but also received numerous awards. His approach to filmmaking is characterized by dark aesthetics and a deep analysis of human psychology. David Fincher continues to be a significant figure in the world of cinema, contributing to the development of modern cinema.
The IMDb rating is 6.4. This indicator reflects the overall perception of a film by viewers and critics. The IMDb rating is an important indicator of the quality and popularity of content, allowing potential viewers to evaluate whether a given work is worth paying attention to. A high rating can indicate a strong plot, high-quality acting, and a professional approach to filmmaking.
Alien 3 was the debut film for David Fincher, who was a thirty-year-old director at the time of its release. Fincher later rose to fame thanks to cult films such as Fight Club and Gone Girl. Despite a successful launch at the box office, the film received mixed reviews from critics and audiences. Fincher himself later distanced himself from the project, stating that "to this day, no one hates it [the film] more than I do." This film continues to generate interest, remaining part of a well-known franchise and drawing attention to Fincher's work.
The director cited the studio's constant interference in the film's production and actually left the project when reshoots began. Despite this, the film still found its audience and became a worthy continuation of the story of Ripley's fight against the alien threat. This film continues to develop the plot familiar to fans of the franchise and deepens the theme of the confrontation between man and alien intelligence.
Year of release: 1997. This year was significant for many events in various fields. The film industry released many cult films that remain popular to this day. The music scene was also vibrant, with the emergence of new artists and genres. In the world of technology, 1997 was marked by important achievements that influenced the further development of the Internet and information technology. This year marked the beginning of many changes that we can still observe today.
The running time of this event is 1 hour and 49 minutes.
Director Jean-Pierre Jeunet is a prominent figure in the world of cinema. His unique style and creative approach to filmmaking, distinguished by unusual visual solutions and gripping plots, have won acclaim from audiences and critics around the world. Jeunet is known for his works, which often explore themes of loneliness, love, and the absurd. His films are distinguished by their vibrant aesthetics and original narratives, making them unforgettable. Jean-Pierre Jeunet's works continue to inspire new generations of filmmakers and audiences, leaving a noticeable mark on the history of cinema.
The IMDB rating is 6.2. This indicator reflects the overall perception of the film by viewers and can serve as a guide for those looking for interesting films to watch. The IMDB rating takes into account user reviews and ratings, making it an important tool for analyzing the popularity and quality of content. When choosing a movie, it's worth paying attention to this rating, as it can help determine whether it's worth your time watching.
The fourth and final part of the classic tetralogy about sinister xenomorphs caused mixed reviews among fans and critics. Nevertheless, this film significantly enriched the franchise. The lead character, played by Sigourney Weaver, was joined in this installment by the young but already renowned actress Winona Ryder. The film was directed by Frenchman Jean-Pierre Jeunet, who would soon release his acclaimed film "Amélie."
Prometheus is one of the most famous figures in ancient Greek mythology. He became a symbol of the pursuit of knowledge and human progress. According to myths, Prometheus was a Titan who stole fire from the gods and gave it to humans. This act not only provided humanity with warmth and light but also marked the beginning of the development of civilization. However, for his disobedience, Prometheus was punished by Zeus, emphasizing the theme of the struggle between freedom and authority.
Prometheus is also associated with themes of self-sacrifice and selfless love for humanity. His story has inspired numerous works of art, literature, and philosophy. This mythological figure continues to be relevant, drawing attention to questions of morality, responsibility, and human nature. Prometheus personifies not only fortitude but also the dangers associated with the use of knowledge. Thus, his myth is a powerful reminder that the pursuit of progress must be balanced with moral responsibility.
Year of release: 2012. This year was significant in various fields, including cinema, music, and technology. 2012 saw the release of many iconic films that left their mark on cinematic history. Musical releases also delighted fans, introducing new hits and performers. Tech companies unveiled innovative products that changed everyday life. 2012 will be remembered as a period when important events and achievements took place that influenced the further development of culture and technology.
The duration of the event is 2 hours and 4 minutes.
Director Ridley Scott is one of the most influential and renowned masters of modern cinema. His works span various genres, including science fiction, historical dramas, and thrillers. Scott rose to fame with iconic films such as Alien, Gladiator, and The Martian. His unique style and ability to craft visually stunning and emotionally charged stories have made him a vital figure in the global film industry. Ridley Scott continues to inspire audiences and new directors with his innovations and approach to filmmaking.
With an IMDb rating of 7.0, Scott has a 7.0 rating.
More than thirty years have passed since the original film, and Sir Ridley Scott returns to the director's chair. Prometheus was originally planned as a direct prequel to 1979's Alien, but it evolved into a standalone film set in the same universe. This expanded concept allowed for a deeper story and exploration of new aspects of the mythology familiar to Alien fans.
The film's sets were created with the help of Swiss artist Rudi Giger, known for his iconic image of the xenomorph Alien. Prometheus takes place approximately 30 years before the events of the original film, allowing audiences to gain a deeper understanding of the characters' backstories and motivations. Giger's unique visual style imbues the film with an atmosphere of horror and mystery, making it an important part of the franchise.
Release Year: 2017. This year was significant in various fields, including film, music, and technology. 2017 saw the release of many iconic films that left their mark on culture. Music releases this year also influenced music trends and genres. In the field of technology, 2017 was marked by the launch of new innovative products and services that changed the way people live. Importantly, 2017 was a milestone for many companies and artists who continued to evolve and influence modern trends.
The duration of the event is 2 hours and 2 minutes. This time is suitable for a rich program that includes various activities and discussions. Participants will be able to delve deeper into the topic and gain maximum useful information during this period.
Director Ridley Scott is one of the most influential and renowned masters of cinema. During his career, he created numerous iconic films that have become classics of the genre. Scott is renowned for his unique visual styles and his ability to create tense and gripping plots. His works span a variety of genres, including science fiction, historical drama, and horror. Ridley Scott continues to be relevant in modern cinema, making a significant contribution to the industry and inspiring a new generation of directors.
The IMDB rating is 6.4. This indicator reflects viewers' opinions of the film and can help them choose what to watch. The IMDB rating is an important criterion for assessing the quality of a film, as it is based on reviews and ratings from numerous users. For a more accurate understanding, it's worth paying attention to the comments and reviews, which can provide additional information about the plot, acting, and direction.
The film "Covenant" continues the development of the storyline began in "Prometheus", although it is not its direct sequel. The question of the canonicity of the events of the prequels is open to debate, but they certainly add new elements to the known universe and reveal the origin story of the Aliens. This expands the understanding of the mythology and immerses viewers deeper into a world where the themes of creation and destruction intersect.
A continuation of the Alien franchise is already in the making: filming of a new film, tentatively titled "Alien: Romulus", began in March of this year in Budapest. Little is known about the project yet, but it can be noted that Federico Alvarez will serve as the screenwriter and director, and Cailee Spaeny will play the leading role. The film promises to update a familiar story and attract both loyal fans and new audiences, making it one of the most anticipated releases in the world of cinema.
You can watch the Alien films in the order they were released, but it makes more sense to follow the plot in chronological order of events within the fictional universe. The more recent installments in the franchise contain numerous flashbacks, references, and parallel storylines, making this approach more sensible. So start your journey with Prometheus, which serves as a precursor to the original films and sets the stage for the rest of the story.
- Prometheus (2012)
- Alien: Covenant (2017)
- Alien (1979)
- Aliens (1986)
- Alien 3 (1992)
- Alien: Resurrection (1997)
Read the comics and graphic novels
The Alien universe extends beyond the films and includes a variety of comics, artbooks, and graphic novels that further our understanding of the Alien world. These publications include unusual crossovers, such as one in which Batman battles xenomorphs in the ruins of a Mayan civilization. These stories not only surprise, but also demonstrate the richness and diversity of the Alien universe, allowing fans to enjoy new interpretations of familiar themes and characters.
Superman also fought aliens, but, unlike his rivals, he was defeated.
In 2023, as part of the Alien Day celebration, Marvel announced the release of a five-part comic book called Alien: Thaw. This new project will once again immerse fans in the unique atmosphere of the Alien universe, offering a fresh take on familiar themes. The comic promises interesting plot twists and captivating characters, making it a must-read for all fans of the franchise.
In 2022, an impressive art book was released, which contains over 100 works by various artists. This publication attracts attention and leaves a vivid impression thanks to its high-quality design and the variety of works presented. The art book will be an excellent addition for collectors and art connoisseurs.
Play an Alien video game
The first Alien game was released in 1982 for the Atari 2600 and was a simple Pac-Man clone. Since then, the Alien franchise has expanded to include numerous games, including both successful projects and lesser-known ones. Over the years, the developers of the series have experimented with various genres, creating both action and adventure games. The unique atmosphere and memorable characters continue to attract the attention of gamers, ensuring the franchise's consistent popularity for decades.
The 2014 horror game Alien: Isolation deserves special attention for its ability to capture the atmosphere of the original 1979 film. The story centers on Ellen Ripley's daughter, Amanda, adding depth and emotional weight. While the game was not a commercial success, it was well-received by fans and critics for its atmosphere, story, and attention to detail. Alien: Isolation has become a cult classic that continues to inspire fans of the series and the genre as a whole.
In 2019, an animated miniseries was released that develops the storyline after the events of Alien: Isolation and complements its ending. This project deepens the understanding of the Alien universe and offers new perspectives on familiar events.
The tactical role-playing game Aliens: Dark Descent will be released in June of this year. The game's story takes place 20 years after the events of the cult film "Alien 3." Players will be immersed in a captivating world filled with tense moments and strategic battles, making this project especially interesting for fans of the franchise.
Watch short films and browse memes
To celebrate the franchise's 40th anniversary, 20th Century Fox and the content creator platform Tongal have presented six short films by emerging filmmakers. These works offer unique interpretations and fresh ideas, bringing new dimensions to the familiar universe. All six shorts are available for viewing on the official Alien Anthology channel.
Memes are an integral part of the "Alien" culture. There's a dedicated Reddit page dedicated to memes and interesting facts about the franchise. Every true Alien fan should subscribe to it to stay up-to-date with the latest news and unique content. Don't miss your chance to be part of a community where everyone discusses their favorite moments and details from the Alien world.
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