As a lifelong fan of science fiction and action films, I have had the pleasure (and at times, the terror) of watching these iconic movies since their initial releases. And let me tell you, some of these films have left a lasting impression on me, whether it’s because they scared the living daylights out of me or because they blew my mind with their action sequences.
20th Century Fox (now 20th Century Studios) struck gold twice with their Alien and Predator series. These two legendary science fiction horror properties, recognized as some of the best in history, have maintained their popularity for decades and crossed over into various platforms. However, it’s the movies that started it all, and both franchises have experienced ups and downs in their respective journeys.
What follows is every single cinematic installment of both franchises, including the two crossovers. As one might expect, the crossovers didn’t fare so well in the ranking. Yet, even in the worst of the Alien and Predator movies, there are elements and scenes to enjoy.
14. Aliens vs. Predator: Requiem (2007)
As a passionate film enthusiast, I have to say that Paul W. S. Anderson’s AVP left me disappointed due to its PG-13 rating. However, Aliens vs. Predator: Requiem seems to rectify this issue, but unfortunately, it doesn’t quite hit the mark either. The truth is, to truly immerse oneself in cinematic chaos, one needs to clearly witness the chaos unfold, and that was a struggle with the dimly lit scenes of AVPR.
Since the release of the spinoff sequel, the Strause Brothers have only directed one film, which was the low-budget “Skyline”. While “Skyline” featured questionable special effects, they were at least visible to the viewer. However, in “AVPR”, the Xenomorphs, Yautja, and their fusion are set in a small town, leaving the viewer with little recollection of it. The one scene that stands out is, interestingly enough, a daytime forest scene where a hunter and his son encounter a facehugger.
13. The Predator (2018)
Among the Alien and Predator franchises, one movie from each series encountered significant turmoil during production. However, only one of these movies successfully navigated the clashing creative visions and emerged as a well-structured film. Unfortunately, Shane Black’s The Predator is not that cohesive movie.
Despite Shane Black having created blockbusters like “Iron Man 3” in his career, it’s surprising that even when he presents a film idea that doesn’t quite fit with what has gone before, it can still be successful (as some argue is the case for his conclusion to the MCU trilogy). However, in the case of “The Predator,” significant portions of the movie were reshot, including the entire climax. This led to the removal of potential franchise-expanding world-building elements and their replacement with an extended action sequence that’s easily forgettable. The film’s post-production alterations are evident, as shown by the quick and almost unnoticeable death scene of Sterling K. Brown’s character Will Traeger, a significant antagonist in the storyline.
12. Alien vs. Predator (2004)
Fans had been eagerly anticipating a clash between the Yautja and Xenomorphs for quite some time. However, when they finally watched AVP: Alien vs. Predator, it fell far short of their expectations, leaving them disappointed. The studio’s decision to make it PG-13 was likely driven by a desire to maximize profits, but this move immediately turned even the most devoted fans of both franchises into skeptics before the movie was even released in theaters.
While AVP has some positive aspects, such as a more streamlined and enjoyable viewing experience compared to its sequel, this commendation might not be as glowing as it appears. Although the film lacks the intense violence that could have elevated it, Sanaa Lathan delivers a standout performance in the leading role, making her a highlight of the movie. Additionally, having more Lance Henriksen as a member of the Weyland family can only add to the film’s appeal.
11. Alien Resurrection (1997)
Among the many unneeded follow-ups in cinematic history, “Alien Resurrection” stands out as one of the most prominent. It’s not often that I advise skipping a film, but this is an exception. For fans of the “Alien” series, it’s disheartening to witness the revival of Ellen Ripley, as she has been transformed into an entirely new character after her resurrection.
In simpler terms, “Alien Resurrection” doesn’t fall lower in rank due to its impressive visual effects of the Xenomorphs and a strong supporting cast, particularly Ron Perlman and Winona Ryder. However, actors like Michael Wincott, Brad Dourif, and Dan Hedaya are underutilized in this film. Compared to the other films in the “Alien Quadrilogy”, “Resurrection” is the one that can be safely skipped if you’re a fan of the series.
10. Alien: Covenant (2017)
In a shift of direction, the film Alien: Covenant aimed to rectify criticisms from fans about Prometheus’ bold moves. Director Ridley Scott sought to return to the series’ roots while also building upon the foundation laid in the 2012 prequel. Regrettably, Covenant didn’t succeed in either task.
In the film “Prometheus”, major questions are either left unresolved or answered in a quick, underwhelming manner, such as the destiny of Noomi Rapace’s character Elizabeth Shaw. The supporting cast is strong, but many characters act in ways that defy logic, pushing it to its limits. The action involving Xenomorphs is present, but nothing stands out. However, the “backburster” scene was a creative touch and Michael Fassbender delivers another impressive performance, this time portraying two roles.
9. Predators (2010)
The film titled “Predators” can be considered an unusual sequel in the series, as it’s been almost two decades since the release of a standalone Yautja movie. Instead of exploring new territories, they opted for a remake of the original storyline. However, despite its lack of risk-taking, this film manages to deliver more successes than failures by prioritizing entertainment over everything else. It also introduces some intriguing elements into the Yautja mythos, such as a bullied Yautja character and the kidnapping plotline, which add depth to the story.
To put it another way, it’s not ideal to begin a film with a group of characters plummeting into an unfamiliar alien forest all at once. Regrettably, some of these characters are poorly suited for their roles or aren’t particularly appealing. For instance, selecting Adrien Brody as the lead for this project, a former U.S. Special Operations Forces soldier, seems quite unexpected. As for likability, even Walton Goggins, despite his talent, tends to be annoying as a racist death row inmate. In comparison to other ‘Alien’ and ‘Predator’ films, ‘Predators’ falls into the category of mediocre ones.
8. Prometheus (2012)
Was the film Alien³ controversial? Absolutely, and Prometheus was even more divisive. For fans hoping for something resembling a traditional Xenomorph movie, it fell far short of expectations.
As someone eagerly anticipating a movie to delve into profound questions about origin while steering the IP towards uncharted territories, it was indeed a success. However, I can’t deny that the underdeveloped characters making puzzling choices, coupled with uneven pacing, made it less of a monumental win, but still, a victory nonetheless. What saved it, much like how Alien: Covenant was rescued, was the exceptional acting by Michael Fassbender.
7. Predator 2 (1990)
A year following his studio film premiere in the sequel “A Nightmare on Elm Street 5: The Dream Child,” Stephen Hopkins was entrusted with the direction of the Yautja’s destruction spree. Fortunately, “Predator 2” surpassed “The Dream Child,” but like the Freddy Krueger film, it hinted to viewers that it belonged to an IP that could potentially benefit from a temporary hiatus. Let it be clear, “Predator 2” was underwhelming, but much like the subsequent movie on this list, time has been favorable to it.
Without a doubt, “Predator 2” takes some bold steps, which might be more effective than yet another trope of soldiers being hunted in a jungle. It’s challenging not to appreciate the quirky performance by Gary Busey. Plus, among replacement actors for Schwarzenegger, Danny Glover delivers impressively. However, what truly sets it apart is the reappearance of Kevin Peter Hall as the titular creature, unfortunately one of his last roles on screen.
6. Alien³ (1992)
Just as I, too, faced challenges in making it to the big screen, similar to “The Predator,” “Alien³” eventually found its merit. Unlike “The Predator,” “Alien³” serves as a fitting conclusion for Ellen Ripley’s journey. Reflecting on it now makes “Alien Resurrection” appear even more unnecessary than it did initially.
I’ve always found “Alien³” to stand out among the franchise for several reasons. It boasts one of the most iconic shots, a handful of memorable side characters, and an Assembly Cut that significantly improves upon many issues in the theatrical release. However, it’s not without its flaws. What truly redeems “Alien³” is its haunting ambiance and yet another stellar performance by Sigourney Weaver. Despite its imperfections, it feels more integral to the IP than “Resurrection” or the enigmatic “Prometheus” and “Covenant”.
5. Alien: Romulus (2024)
In the case of films like Alien: Romulus that fall under either sequel or prequel categories, there’s often a tendency to overly replicate successful elements, which can ultimately weaken the overall outcome. However, Fede Álvarez’s take on the Xenomorph, similar to his 2013 Evil Dead reboot, manages to work more times than it doesn’t. The primary criticisms leveled against it are a contentious third act and an unnecessary role for a character with roots in the original series, or essentially, a new version of that legacy character.
Romulus demonstrates that it’s feasible to revive the franchise by returning to its horror origins and achieve success in this endeavor. Some of its strengths include a generous application of practical effects, a balanced pace that avoids both being too fast or slow, and a talented ensemble cast. Notably, Cailee Spaeny once again delivers an outstanding performance, convincing viewers that standalone Alien movies can thrive even without Ellen Ripley’s presence.
4. Prey (2022)
It seemed for a time that the Predator series might follow the path of Jurassic Park, being best enjoyed as a single film. The sequel Predator 2 underperformed critically and commercially, followed by a long hiatus before the third installment (excluding the AVP films). Even Shane Black’s efforts failed to produce a truly noteworthy sequel. However, much like Shane Black’s unexpected success with 10 Cloverfield Lane, which was unannounced until its release in theaters, Dan Trachtenberg has now delivered what is arguably the second-best Yautja film to date. Remarkably, this impressive sequel was a streaming exclusive.
To put it simply, “Prey” is just as impressive, if not more so, than “Predator.” Amber Midthunder delivers an exceptional performance, the action is invigoratingly new, and the story carefully explores its main character. As a movie, many believe it surpasses its predecessor due to its character-driven approach. However, “Predator” has three key advantages: memorable one-liners, flawless pacing, and being the first to present the Yautja. Despite this, director Dan Trachtenberg is set to return for multiple installments in 2025, including “Predator: Badlands,” which should generate a lot of enthusiasm among fans.
3. Predator (1987)
Hard to top action films like Predator from the 80s, with Die Hard (also directed by John McTiernan) being one of the few that can challenge its gunfire intensity. Once the story is well-established, the movie primarily revolves around a small group of individuals battling an unidentified danger.
In addition, despite all the characters being tough, macho men, the actors skillfully make them endearing, and the script effectively distinguishes each one. One of the remarkable aspects of Predator is its ability to create a sense of genuine peril for these seasoned warriors. Given that Arnold Schwarzenegger, three years before starring in The Terminator, plays the lead character, this is quite an impressive achievement.
2. Aliens (1986)
James Cameron could very well be acknowledged as the mastermind behind sci-fi action sequels. What sets him apart is that in the case of “Terminator 2: Judgment Day”, he was developing a follow-up based on an intellectual property he himself originated. In contrast, with “Aliens”, he entered an already established universe and brought his unique vision to it, which turned out to be quite extraordinary.
Essentially, “Aliens” can be seen as a more expansive version of “Alien”: more aliens, if you will. This was how James Cameron presented the concept to 20th Century Fox. He scribbled down “Alien” in large letters and followed it with a dollar sign. The pitch proved effective, and the movie has only grown in appeal since then. Like “Predator”, it’s one of the classic action films, but what sets “Aliens” apart is its exceptional character development of Ellen Ripley, portrayed brilliantly by Sigourney Weaver across all four movies, with her performance in “Aliens” being particularly noteworthy.
1. Alien (1979)
Many find Ridley Scott’s movie “Alien” to be flawless, and for good reason. It masterfully balances pace, generates genuine fear, showcases grand ambition, and features outstanding performances, making it a timeless classic. While its subsequent sequel is equally impressive, nothing can surpass the original in terms of quality.
When it comes to Aliens, though the director’s cut is superior, it’s advisable to opt for the original theatrical cut. The parts left out don’t enhance the flow, even if the impact isn’t significant. The theatrical version still stands as the epitome of a haunted house film, where fear lurks in every nook and cranny of a confined, single setting, keeping you on edge throughout.
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2024-11-25 06:11