The Alien franchise has long been a defining pillar of the science fiction and horror genres. From the haunting corridors of the USCSS Nostromo to the harrowing battlefields of LV-426, the series has offered unforgettable cinematic experiences. But with such a diverse range of films, not all entries have struck the same chord with fans. Here’s a ranking of the Alien films, from the least impressive to the very best.
9. Alien vs. Predator: Requiem (2007)
At the bottom of the list is Alien vs. Predator: Requiem, a film that managed to disappoint both Alien and Predator fans alike. Following the crossover hype of its predecessor, Requiem struggled with poor lighting, underdeveloped characters, and a narrative that lacked the tension and atmosphere that made the earlier Alien films so iconic. It’s a dark (literally and figuratively) chapter in the franchise that fails to capture the essence of either universe.
8. Alien: Resurrection (1997)
Alien: Resurrection brought Ripley back from the dead—literally—with a cloning twist that divided fans. Directed by Jean-Pierre Jeunet, the film introduced a mix of dark humor and grotesque hybrid creatures that didn’t sit well with everyone. While it has moments of creativity, particularly in its visual design, the film’s campy tone and inconsistent pacing place it near the bottom of the series.
7. Alien vs. Predator (2004)
The concept of pitting two of cinema’s most feared extraterrestrial species against each other is tantalizing, but Alien vs. Predator didn’t quite deliver the epic showdown fans were hoping for. Directed by Paul W.S. Anderson, the film was criticized for its PG-13 rating, which limited the intensity and horror that are hallmarks of the Alien franchise. Where AVP succeeds in knowing exactly what it is: a brainless Sci-Fi horror flick that does offer some early-2000s nostalgia.
6. Alien 3 (1992)
David Fincher’s directorial debut, Alien 3, is perhaps the most controversial film in the franchise. Set in a prison colony and marked by a bleak tone, the film is notorious for killing off key characters from Aliens in its opening moments. The production was troubled, and Fincher himself has distanced himself from the final product. However, the film’s stark atmosphere and thematic depth give it a distinct place in the Alien canon, even if it doesn’t quite match its predecessors.
5. Alien: Covenant (2017)
Alien: Covenant marked Ridley Scott’s return to the horror roots of the original Alien. Serving as both a sequel to Prometheus and a prequel to the original Alien, the film is a mix of philosophical musings and visceral horror. While it doesn’t quite reach the heights of the best in the series, Covenant features some truly terrifying moments and deepens the mythology of the xenomorphs and their origins.
4. Prometheus (2012)
Prometheus was Ridley Scott’s highly anticipated return to the universe he created, and it delivered a visually stunning and thought-provoking narrative. The film explores the origins of humanity and the Engineers, who played a role in the creation of the xenomorphs. Although it left many questions unanswered and divided audiences with its ambiguity, Prometheus is a bold and ambitious entry that adds a new layer of depth to the Alien mythos.
3. Alien: Romulus (2024)
The newest addition to the franchise, Alien: Romulus, directed by Fede Álvarez, has reinvigorated the series with a fresh approach. The film successfully blends the horror and suspense of the original with the action elements seen in Aliens. Romulus introduces a compelling new cast while staying true to the franchise’s roots, earning its place as one of the top-tier Alien films.
2. Aliens (1986)
James Cameron’s Aliens is a masterclass in action and suspense. Expanding on the horror of the original, Aliens introduces a militaristic approach, with Ripley returning to face an entire hive of xenomorphs. The film features intense action sequences, memorable characters, and a powerful performance from Sigourney Weaver, who cemented Ripley as one of the greatest heroines in film history. Aliens stands as one of the greatest sequels ever made.
1. Alien (1979)
Topping the list is the film that started it all—Ridley Scott’s Alien. A masterpiece of suspense and atmosphere, Alien introduced audiences to the terrifying world of xenomorphs and the claustrophobic terror of space. With its slow-burn pacing, haunting score, and iconic creature design by H.R. Giger, Alien remains a benchmark in the horror genre. It’s a film that has not only stood the test of time but has also influenced countless sci-fi and horror films that followed.
