Alien: Covenant (2017) Movie Review: A Dark Return to the Alien Universe
Released in 2017, Alien: Covenant is the sequel to Ridley Scott’s Prometheus and the second installment in the prequel series of the iconic Alien franchise. Directed by Scott, who also helmed the original Alien in 1979, Covenant seeks to bridge the gap between the philosophical themes introduced in Prometheus and the survival horror elements that made the original series a classic. The film stars an ensemble cast including Michael Fassbender, Katherine Waterston, and Billy Crudup, and combines science fiction with horror in a visually stunning and thought-provoking narrative. In this review, we will explore the plot, characters, themes, and where to watch the film online.
Plot Summary: A Mission to Find a New Home
Set in 2104, Alien: Covenant follows the crew of the colony ship Covenant, which is en route to establish a human colony on a remote planet. The ship is carrying over 2,000 colonists in stasis and a synthetic android named Walter (also played by Fassbender). After receiving a distress signal from a nearby planet, the crew decides to investigate, believing it may be an uncharted paradise.
Upon landing on the planet, they discover a lush but desolate landscape, remnants of a previous expedition, and the presence of a deadly alien species. As the crew encounters terrifying creatures and begins to unravel the dark secrets of the planet, they must confront the existential questions of creation, life, and the consequences of their choices.
Strong Performances: A Talented Ensemble Cast
The film boasts a strong cast that effectively brings the story and characters to life:
- Michael Fassbender as David and Walter: Fassbender delivers a compelling dual performance as the androids David and Walter. David, the morally ambiguous synthetic from Prometheus, embodies a dark and twisted intelligence, while Walter represents a more empathetic and loyal version of artificial life. Fassbender’s portrayal adds complexity and depth to both characters, making them central to the film’s themes.
- Katherine Waterston as Daniels: Waterston plays Daniels, the ship’s terraforming expert and the film’s primary protagonist. Her character showcases resilience and determination as she navigates the dangers of the alien world. Waterston effectively captures Daniels’ emotional turmoil and strength, establishing her as a relatable and inspiring figure.
- Billy Crudup as Oram: Crudup portrays Oram, the ship’s captain, who struggles with leadership decisions amidst the unfolding chaos. His performance captures the tension between faith and rationality as he confronts the horrifying reality of their situation.
- Danny McBride as Tennessee: McBride adds a touch of humor and humanity to the film as Tennessee, the ship’s pilot. His character provides a grounding presence amid the terror, and his performance balances the film’s darker moments with moments of levity.
Visuals and Cinematography: A Stunning Aesthetic
Ridley Scott’s direction combined with cinematographer Dariusz Wolski’s visuals creates a hauntingly beautiful film. Alien: Covenant features stunning landscapes, intricate set designs, and masterful lighting that immerse viewers in the eerie atmosphere of the alien world. The film’s aesthetic pays homage to the original Alien while also exploring new visual territories.
The special effects team excels in bringing the alien creatures to life, blending practical effects with CGI to create terrifying and memorable beings. The xenomorphs and neomorphs are rendered with chilling detail, maintaining the franchise’s legacy of terrifying extraterrestrial threats.
Themes of Creation and Existence
Alien: Covenant delves deep into themes of creation, existentialism, and the nature of humanity. The film raises profound questions about the act of creation and the responsibilities that come with it. David’s character embodies a god-like figure, grappling with the concept of creation while questioning the value of human life.
The exploration of artificial intelligence and its implications on humanity is also a significant theme. The contrast between David and Walter illustrates the varying potentials of synthetic life, challenging viewers to consider the ethical implications of creating life and the consequences of playing god.
Additionally, the film engages with the fear of the unknown and the primal instinct for survival. As the crew faces relentless dangers, their struggle for survival becomes a commentary on the lengths to which humanity will go to protect itself.
Critical Reception: A Mixed Response
Upon its release, Alien: Covenant received mixed reviews from critics. While some praised its visual spectacle, thematic depth, and performances, others criticized its pacing and narrative coherence. The film holds a respectable rating on Rotten Tomatoes but faced disappointment from fans who felt it didn’t fully capture the essence of the original Alien films.
Despite the mixed reviews, Covenant has been appreciated for its ambition and willingness to explore deeper philosophical questions. Fans of the franchise may find enjoyment in the connections made to the larger Alien mythology while also experiencing a fresh take on the horror elements.
Where to Watch Alien: Covenant Online
If you’re interested in watching Alien: Covenant, here are some streaming options available as of 2024:
1. Streaming Services: Subscription-Based Platforms
- Hulu: The film may be available for streaming on Hulu, depending on your region. Check the platform to see if it’s currently included in your subscription.
- Amazon Prime Video: Alien: Covenant can often be found on Amazon Prime, either as part of the subscription or for rent/purchase.
2. Rental and Purchase Options
- Apple iTunes: Rent or purchase Alien: Covenant on iTunes, where it’s available in high-definition formats.
- Google Play Movies & TV: Rent or buy the film on Google Play for streaming on various devices.
- Vudu: The movie is available for rent or purchase on Vudu, offering it in different viewing formats.
- YouTube Movies: You can also rent or purchase Alien: Covenant through YouTube Movies.
Conclusion: A Visually Stunning and Thought-Provoking Sci-Fi Horror
Alien: Covenant is a visually stunning and thematically rich addition to the Alien franchise. With strong performances, particularly from Michael Fassbender, and a deep exploration of existential themes, the film offers a compelling narrative that invites viewers to contemplate the nature of creation and humanity.
While it may not fully satisfy all fans of the original series, Covenant successfully combines horror and science fiction elements, making it an engaging watch for those seeking a thought-provoking cinematic experience. Whether you’re a die-hard fan of the Alien series or new to the franchise, Alien: Covenant presents a dark and thrilling journey into the unknown.
