How to watch the Alien and Predator movies in order

How to watch the Alien and Predator movies in order

As a lifelong fan of both the Alien and Predator franchises, I must say that the 2010 film, Predators, was a thrilling addition to the saga. While it doesn’t directly tie into either series, its standalone narrative showcases the brutal and competitive nature of the Predator species in a unique and engaging way.


Movie Goers: Witness the return of the fearsome xenomorph realm as Alien: Romulus hits theaters!

Back in 1979, I was utterly captivated by the chilling debut of this monstrous entity, as it tore its way through John Hurt’s chest and into our living rooms on the silver screen.

As a passionate cinephile, I’d rephrase it like this: With raw power, corrosive blood, and a chilling lack of empathy, the xenomorph, conceived by artist HR Giger, was once considered unmatched in terror. That was until another fearsome alien species invaded our movie screens, challenging the xenomorph’s supremacy just a few short years later.

In 1987, Arnold Schwarzenegger featured in the movie “Predator”. This action-packed film follows a group of top-tier mercenaries as they embark on a dangerous journey through a dense Central American jungle. However, their mission took an unexpected turn when they encountered a ruthless extraterrestrial hunter lurking in the woods.

Fans quickly began debating if the Predator might be capable of battling a Xenomorph, leading to the creation of a shared franchise across comic books and movies.

However, this sprawling mythos can be confusing to newcomers, particularly as entries in the Alien, Predator and AVP series often take place in entirely different continuities.

Read on for more information on how to tackle your Alien vs Predator marathon.

How to watch Alien movies in chronological order

1. Prometheus (2012)

How to watch the Alien and Predator movies in order

In chronological order, Prometheus stands as the first movie within the present-day Alien series, with its original franchise director, Ridley Scott, re-entering the scene to offer a fresh perspective in this ominous universe.

In contrast to its predecessor Alien, where the storyline centers around the Xenomorph, Prometheus introduces a new cast of terrifying creatures instead, while maintaining the theme of a Weyland Corporation-funded crew embarking on a hazardous expedition.

Noomi Rapace, Michael Fassbender, Idris Elba and Charlize Theron lead the cast.

Rent or buy Prometheus on Amazon Prime Video or Watch on Disney Plus

2. Alien: Covenant (2017)

In the sequence of events following Prometheus, Alien: Covenant distinguishes itself as one of the grittiest entries within the whole series, showing no mercy when it comes to graphic violence and heart-pounding action scenes.

In the new storyline, Michael Fassbender once again portrays the character David, an android created by Weyland. Joining him are Katherine Waterston, Danny McBride, and Billy Crudup, who form part of a team aboard a spaceship as they delve into the unknown expanse of deep space.

Rent or buy Alien: Covenant on Amazon Prime Video or Watch on Disney Plus

3. Alien (1979)

How to watch the Alien and Predator movies in order

Originally and arguably continuing to be the finest, the movie Alien, initially released, introduced audiences to terrifying creatures such as facehuggers, chestbursters, and xenomorphs, setting a new standard for horror films.

In a commercial spaceship named USS Nostromo, operated by the United States, Sigourney Weaver plays Ellen Ripley, one of its crew members. When they receive an unexplained transmission from an unknown planet, the crew bravely decides to investigate it.

As you might expect, it doesn’t go well.

Rent or buy Alien on Amazon Prime Video or Watch on Disney Plus

4. Alien: Romulus (2024)

How to watch the Alien and Predator movies in order

Romulus” occurs between the initial two films and follows a group of astronauts exploring a deserted spaceship, only to find out that it’s home to the deadly xenomorph creatures.

The film stars Cailee Spaeny and David Jonnson.

5. Aliens (1986)

In the second installment, Weaver was back after much anticipation. However, instead of Scott, it was James Cameron who assumed control and guided the series towards a more action-focused path.

As a longtime fan of the Alien franchise, I find it refreshing and exciting that Ridley Scott chose to return to this universe with a new installment that sets itself apart from its predecessors while still retaining the signature elements that made the series great. With his knack for creating jaw-dropping set pieces, Scott’s involvement in Alien: Covenant is a welcome addition to the franchise, as it promises to deliver the visceral and tense action that fans have come to expect from this iconic series. As someone who has followed the Alien saga since its inception, I am eagerly anticipating this new chapter and am confident that Scott’s unique vision will once again elevate the franchise to new heights.

Without a doubt, “Aliens” is considered by many to be one of the most outstanding action movies ever produced, boasting a brilliantly crafted script. Sigourney Weaver delivers an outstanding performance alongside her talented cast members Lance Henriksen, Michael Biehn, Paul Reiser, and Bill Paxton.

Rent or buy Aliens on Amazon Prime Video or Watch on Disney Plus

6. Alien 3 (1992)

In simpler terms, the initial mistake in the Alien series occurred with the third installment, Alien 3, helmed by David Fincher. This film became notorious due to meddling from the studio.

The scene changes to the prison ship Fiorina 161, where Ellen Ripley forcefully lands along with a terrifying alien creature. This alien creature then starts preying upon the aggressive male prisoners.

Rent or buy Alien 3 on Amazon Prime Video or Watch on Disney Plus

7. Alien: Resurrection (1997)

In my opinion, the narrative of the Alien series took an unexpected turn for the worse with Alien: Resurrection. This film, which unfolds far into the future following the events of the third movie, presents a continuation of the tale centered around a Ripley clone endowed with extraordinary abilities.

While some commentators found merit in the Resurrection narrative, it’s understandable why this tale hasn’t been extended into a film series.

Rent or buy Alien: Resurrection on Amazon Prime Video or Watch on Disney Plus

How to watch Predator movies in order

1. Prey (2022)

As a movie enthusiast who’s all about the Predator series, I’d say if you’re keen on watching these films in the right sequence, you should definitely begin with “Prey.” Dan Trachtenberg’s masterpiece essentially sets the stage for the rest of the series, acting as a prequel to the other movies.

In the Comanche tribe of 1719, the story unfolds with Amber Midthunder playing the strong-willed character, Naru. Despite being a valiant warrior, she faces disregard and disrespect from the men in her tribe due to her gender.

However, once she encounters the Predator – an alien with a lethal intent towards earthly life, hunting as a form of entertainment – her value to the tribe becomes undeniably clear.

Watch Prey on Disney Plus

2. Predator (1987)

How to watch the Alien and Predator movies in order

A full century prior to the events depicted in the Alien series, Predator stands alone as a thrilling action film, offering an outstanding cinematic experience.

In this rendition, Arnold Schwarzenegger portrays Major Alan ‘Dutch’ Schaefer, a U.S. Army Special Operations soldier summoned for a mission to save hostages trapped within the dense foliage of a Central American rainforest.

Unbeknownst to them, an ominous extraterrestrial force is secretly prowling the untamed wilderness, keeping tabs on the expedition led by Dutch, alongside his comrades Carl Weathers’ character Dillon and Shane Black portraying Hawkins (further details about him to follow).

Rent or buy Predator on Amazon Prime Video or Watch on Disney Plus

3. Predator 2 (1990)

Instead of Arnold Schwarzenegger, it was Danny Glover’s character, LAPD detective Mike Harrigan, who took center stage in this follow-up to Predator, as opposed to a direct sequel.

In my perspective, the story unfolds throughout the city amidst feuding drug gangs, offering a striking contrast to the lush jungle setting of the initial tale.

Initially upon its debut, I wasn’t showered with praise by critics for Predator 2. However, it’s quite remarkable how this movie has evolved over the years and attained a cult following.

The movie came out following the publication of the initial Alien vs Predator comic book storyline, and it included a Xenomorph skull in one instance, marking the first significant nod to a connected universe between these two creatures.

Rent or buy Predator 2 on Amazon Prime Video or Watch on Disney Plus

4. The Predator (2018)

In the latest installment of the Predator series, director and actor Shane Black, known for his role in the original film, takes charge from behind the camera. The story unfolds in contemporary suburban America, where a group of soldiers find themselves up against two Predators who have abducted a young boy.

Initially eagerly awaited by many, The Predator faced a wide range of positive and negative responses from both audiences and reviewers upon its release. Unfortunately, it didn’t generate significant revenue at the box office.

Nevertheless, observant viewers may spot subtle connections to the initial two Predator movies, along with an intriguing homage to the Alien series, showcased by a Xenomorph tail fashioned into a spear.

Rent or buy The Predator on Amazon Prime Video or Watch on Disney Plus

5. Predators (2010)

How to watch the Alien and Predator movies in order

In 2010’s addition to the Predator series, the title was intentionally made plural, mimicking the second film in the Alien saga. However, beyond this subtle homage, there aren’t many significant links worth noting.

In a time yet undetermined, the story unfolds as a band of mercenaries find themselves kidnapped and stranded on an extraterrestrial world. Two rival Predator clans on this planet engage in a fierce competition, with the mercenaries becoming unwitting participants in their deadly hunt.

In the main roles, we have Adrien Brody from Peaky Blinders, joined by Alice Braga known for The New Mutants, as well as Laurence Fishburne famous for The Matrix, and lastly, Walton Goggins recognized in Ant-Man and the Wasp.

Rent or buy Predators on Amazon Prime Video

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How to watch Alien vs Predator movies in order

1. AVP: Alien vs Predator (2004)

How to watch the Alien and Predator movies in order

In my perspective, initially, the Alien vs Predator movies were designed to fit seamlessly within the established timelines of both franchises. However, the happenings in the more contemporary hits like Prometheus and Alien: Covenant have essentially made those earlier films no longer part of the official continuity.

Consequently, fans may consider these works as a standalone two-part series, yet for those who prefer to understand the background given at their original publication dates, following the sequence in the release order provided further below might be more satisfying.

In the year 2004, I found myself right in the thick of an age-old conflict: the Xenomorphs versus the Predators. As part of a research team, we blissfully stumbled into this ancient feud, learning the hard way that curiosity can sometimes be a dangerous thing!

Needless to say, it doesn’t end well for them.

Rent or buy Alien vs Predator on Amazon Prime Video or Watch on Disney Plus

2. AVPR: Alien vs Predator – Requiem (2007)

Immediately following the conclusion of the initial movie, Alien vs Predator: Requiem unfolds in a serene Colorado town. Here, an ominous “Predalien” hybrid arises, wreaking chaos and terror.

Similar to the initial movie, I found myself facing harsh criticisms and disappointing ticket sales with AVPR, effectively pausing the cross-franchise journey for now.

Rent or buy Alien vs Predator – Requiem on Amazon Prime Video or Watch on Disney Plus

Alien and Predator complete release order

  1. Alien (1979)
  2. Aliens (1986)
  3. Predator (1987)
  4. Predator 2 (1990)
  5. Alien 3 (1992)
  6. Alien: Resurrection (1997)
  7. AVP: Alien vs Predator (2004)
  8. AVPR: Alien vs Predator – Requiem (2007)
  9. Predators (2010)
  10. Prometheus (2012)
  11. Alien: Covenant (2017)
  12. The Predator (2018)
  13. Prey (2022)
  14. Alien: Romulus (2024)

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2024-08-16 15:06