Alien: Earth adds surprisingly good TV dimension to veteran sci-fi

Alien: Earth
Noah Hawley
Disney+

The term “genre-defying” has become a catch-all descriptor for films and series that seem hesitant to fully commit to a single identity. However, in relation to the Alien franchise, this phrase is surprisingly fitting.

Ridley Scott’s iconic 1979 film Alien introduced audiences to Ellen Ripley (Sigourney Weaver) and an unspeakably terrifying xenomorph aboard a claustrophobic spaceship, forever changing the landscape of both science fiction and horror cinema.

While this series has explored various themes—from Hollywood blockbuster to psychological thriller—fans may wonder if there’s still uncharted territory after nearly 50 years of films, comics, and video games.

Surprisingly, the Alien universe has yet to see a television adaptation until now. At first glance, a series may seem challenging, as the tension of a two-hour film might diffuse over the course of eight hour-long episodes. However, I’m thrilled to report that the initial six episodes of Alien: Earth deliver a visceral and effective narrative that blends the old with the new.

Taking place in 2120—two years prior to the events of the original Alien—the series introduces viewers to a futuristic Earth dominated by five corporate giants: Weyland-Yutani, Lynch, Dynamic, Threshold, and Prodigy. Alongside the familiar synthetic beings known as “synths” present in earlier installments, we see the introduction of cybernetically enhanced humans and hybrids that have human consciousness embedded within synthetic bodies.

The journey follows our protagonist, Wendy (played by Sydney Chandler), the first hybrid conceived by Prodigy’s CEO Boy Kavalier (Samuel Blenkin). Leading a group known as the Lost Boys, each member is a hybrid, once terminally ill children whose consciousness has been transferred to powerful adult bodies.

Despite her contentment, Wendy longs for her brother Joe (Alex Lawther), a tactical officer and medic unaware of her survival. When a Weyland-Yutani ship crashes in the heart of a Prodigy-run city, Joe is among the first responders trying to rescue the wealthy passengers and discern the mysterious cargo. As chaos ensues, Wendy persuades Kavalier to deploy the Lost Boys to assist.

Series creator Noah Hawley expertly balances nostalgia and innovation. He seamlessly integrates elements from the original film’s suspenseful storylines with the frenzied action reminiscent of James Cameron’s Aliens. Notably, as Wendy reflects on her childhood bond with Joe, the animation they cherished together captivates the screen.

However, Alien: Earth offers more than a nostalgic tribute; it introduces fresh concepts including formidable new monsters, like a fearsome plant pod lurking inside the spaceship wreckage. Additionally, the storyline unveils intriguing characters such as Morrow (Babou Ceesay), a surviving cyborg from the crashed ship, and Kirsh (Timothy Olyphant), an enigmatic synth with an unwavering demeanor.

Each episode within Alien: Earth explores various genres—one moment portraying a gripping conspiracy thriller centered around Morrow’s quest to uncover a saboteur, and another presenting Wendy’s compelling coming-of-age narrative driven by her unique weaponry. The show not only revitalizes the existing lore but impressively expands the universe.

Bethan also recommends…

Alien
Ridley Scott
The original film remains a defining piece of the Alien universe. It introduced audiences to the terrifying xenomorph along with an unforgettable protagonist in Ellen Ripley.

Aliens
James Cameron
Fans often regard this action-packed sequel as the pinnacle of the franchise. While some may debate this, it undoubtedly remains an exhilarating experience.

Bethan Ackerley is the assistant culture editor at New Scientist. She enjoys sci-fi, sitcoms, and anything spooky. Follow her on X @‌inkerley