For Alien Day, Fede Alvarez shows us the Alien Romulus video and some special effects from the film.
In the dark and wonderful universe of “Alien”, every new episode gives chills and “Alien: Romulus” is no different. Directed by Fede Alvarez, this film promises to bring back the practical effects that many fans love. This is evidenced in a recent behind-the-scenes video of Alvarez enjoying a radio-controlled face-hugger, a creature that has undoubtedly left an indelible mark on popular culture, from film to horror. Influence in video games.
The resurgence of functional terror
From the first trailer, “Alien: Romulus” hints at a return to the series’ roots with a focus on practical effects. Director Fede Alvarez reiterated his commitment to this vision, choosing to collaborate again with the team that brought the Xenomorphs to life in 1986’s “Aliens”. I had the opportunity to be under the table with them doing all of this animation,” Alvarez commented in an interview with The Hollywood Reporter.
Alvarez shared on social media how he carried the face-hugger on set, describing it as “playing with my favorite toy” as he expressed his feelings and nostalgia. This approach not only shows respect for the art of special effects, but also connects with fans in a very real and fun way.
Horror and pop culture
The Xenomorphs from “Alien” are, without a doubt, fantasy fuel. In addition to their obvious influence on film, they have crossed over into other media, leaving their mark on television and video games, where their iconic image continues to inspire fear and fascination. The fithugger, perhaps the most feared of its life cycles on record, cannot fail to evoke arachnophobia in the public.
Alvarez himself uses this natural fear, a technique that films such as “Slitter”, “Eight Legged Freaks” and “Piranha” have also successfully used. In an interview with IGN, Alvarez explained the horror concept: “The idea of what would happen if you got caught by a Facehugger, you’d rather be caught by a Xenomorph.” You would rather die quickly than be caught.”
Relationship with alien heritage
The main character of “Alien: Romulus” will play a pivotal role in this new chapter, where he will not only face the physical horrors of space, but also the ethical problems that this entails. A character whose evolution promises to be at the heart of the plot, it seems designed to resonate with the depth and complexity that characterizes Ripley, played brilliantly by Sigourney Weaver in the early episodes. Alvarez’s ability to weave a narrative that honors the past while exploring new emotional and moral insights will be key to connecting with audiences.
In addition, the story’s focus on practical effects and its deep connection to basic human fears make for interesting parallels with other characters in the horror genre. Compared to figures such as Ash Williams from “Evil Dead” or Nancy Thompson from “A Nightmare on Elm Street”, the leader of Romulus joins this tradition of horror heroes who are remembered not only for their bravery, but also for their heroism, faced with unimaginable terror. Humanity in the face of the cliff.
Foreigner’s Day celebration
Started as a promotional event by 20th Century Fox in 2016, the “Alien Day” event has become an annual celebration for fans, with a direct nod to the planetoid LV-426 from the first film on April 26. This year, anticipation for the release of “Aliens Expanded,” a documentary exploring the making of James Cameron’s “Aliens,” will feature fresh commentary and behind-the-scenes footage.
With Romulus scheduled to premiere on August 16, fans have a lot to look forward to. With this focus on the accuracy of the results and a narrative that promises to be as terrifying as it is intended, Alvarez is not only returning to his fan-favorite roots, but is ushering in a new era of terror in the franchise.