Discover the Alien Universe: How to Watch the Films in Chronological and Release Order
Introduction: Why the Alien Franchise Is a Must-Watch
The Xenomorph from the Alien series has become one of the most iconic and terrifying monsters in cinema history. With its acid blood, nested mouths, and deadly claws, this creature has redefined the space horror genre and created a lasting legacy that continues to inspire audiences. As new titles like Alien: Romulus hit streaming services, many fans are eager to revisit or explore the entire franchise from start to finish.
But what is the best way to watch these films? Should you follow the story chronologically, or enjoy them in the order they were released? We’ve prepared a comprehensive guide to help you navigate the Alien universe in whichever way you prefer.
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How Many Movies Are Part of the Alien Universe?
The franchise currently includes nine films, spanning mainline installments, crossover projects with Predator, prequels, and standalone stories. This diverse lineup offers a variety of tones, stories, and characters to explore.
Alien Movies in Chronological Order
For those who prefer to experience the story as it unfolds in the timeline of events, here’s the recommended viewing order:
1. AVP: Alien vs. Predator (2004)
This film marks the earliest point in the timeline, set in 2004. Directed by Paul W. S. Anderson, it explores the ancient conflict between Predators and Xenomorphs. The story reveals that Predators have been hunting these creatures on Earth for thousands of years, with ancient cults sacrificing themselves to Xenomorph Queens to serve as prey for the hunters. Things go awry during a Predator expedition, leading to chaos and destruction.
2. Aliens vs. Predator: Requiem (2007)
Taking place immediately after AVP, this sequel continues the story of the Predalien hybrid unleashed in a small Colorado town. A seasoned Predator arrives to contain the outbreak, resulting in intense battles and carnage. This film completes the crossover saga within the franchise.
3. Prometheus (2012)
Directed by Ridley Scott, Prometheus acts as a prequel set in the late 21st Century. It follows a crew led by Peter Weyland, who seek the origins of humanity based on star maps. Their journey uncovers the creators of humankind—and the deadly bio-weapon, the Xenomorph—setting the stage for the original films.
4. Alien: Covenant (2017)
This film is a sequel to Prometheus and takes place 11 years later. It follows a colonization crew responding to a distress signal on a distant planet. They encounter terrifying remnants of the previous expedition, including Xenomorphs and androids, bringing the story closer to the events of the original Alien.
5. Alien (1979)
The classic that started it all, Alien follows the crew of the Nostromo, a commercial space tug, who stumble upon a moon filled with Xenomorph eggs. Unaware of the threat, they are soon fighting for survival against the deadly creature that grows inside humans before bursting out. This film established the franchise’s iconic horror tone and introduced Sigourney Weaver’s legendary character, Ripley.
6. Alien: Romulus (2024)
The most recent addition, Alien: Romulus is a standalone film set about 20 years after the original. Directed by Fede Álvarez, it follows Rain Carradine (Cailee Spaeny) and her brother, who are fleeing their oppressive home planet. When they discover a mysterious abandoned Weyland-Yutani ship, they face terrifying revelations that connect to the franchise’s larger mythos.
7. Aliens (1986)
The sequel to Alien, directed by James Cameron, ramps up the action and intensity. Sigourney Weaver returns as Ripley, leading a team of space marines to confront a horde of Xenomorphs. Known for its adrenaline-pumping sequences and memorable quotes, Aliens is often regarded as one of the best sci-fi action films ever made.
8. Alien 3 (1992)
Ripley’s story continues on a penal colony after the destruction of the Sulaco in Aliens. This darker, more intense installment was David Fincher’s directorial debut and features a grim tone. It explores themes of sacrifice and survival as Ripley battles a new Xenomorph threat amidst hostile inmates.
9. Alien Resurrection (1997)
Set 200 years after Alien 3, Resurrection explores a military project that clones Ripley to study and breed Xenomorphs. Directed by Jean-Pierre Jeunet, this film introduces a bizarre, colorful tone and a new cast of characters, ending with hints of Xenomorphs heading toward Earth—though a direct sequel was never produced.
Watching in Release Order: The Films as They Hit Theaters
If you prefer to experience the franchise as audiences did initially, follow this order:
- Alien (1979)
- Aliens (1986)
- Alien 3 (1992)
- Alien Resurrection (1997)
- AVP: Alien vs. Predator (2004)
- Aliens vs. Predator – Requiem (2007)
- Prometheus (2012)
- Alien: Covenant (2017)
- Alien: Romulus (2024)
What’s Next for the Alien Franchise?
Following the success of Alien: Romulus, rumors abound about a potential sequel. Director Fede Álvarez has hinted that filming could begin as soon as this year. Fans are excited for more stories that expand the universe and deepen the mythos.
Additionally, a new Alien TV series titled Alien: Earth is set to premiere soon. The show will serve as a prequel, exploring the origins of the Xenomorphs and possibly connecting to other parts of the franchise’s lore. Early trailers tease different types of Xenomorphs and suggest a potential link to the Predator universe.
Explore More Alien Content
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- Complete List of Alien Blu-ray Sets and Special Editions
Derek Shaw
Derek is a seasoned film critic and cinephile with a deep appreciation for storytelling, cinematography, and character development. He covers everything from mainstream blockbusters to indie films and international cinema. With a unique voice and thoughtful perspective, Derek offers reviews, deep dives, and behind-the-scenes insights that resonate with both casual viewers and hardcore movie fans.
