The Alien Franchise: A New Hope for Long-Term Protagonists?
The Alien franchise has captivated audiences for decades with its blend of science fiction, horror, and suspense. While Ridley Scott’s prequel films, Prometheus and Alien: Covenant, offered intriguing glimpses into the origins of the Xenomorphs, they also left some viewers frustrated. A key point of contention was the handling of characters like Elizabeth Shaw, played by Noomi Rapace.
In Prometheus, Elizabeth emerged as a compelling protagonist, displaying resourcefulness and determination in the face of horrific situations. She seemed poised to take the mantle of Ripley, the iconic heroine of the original Alien films. However, Alien: Covenant dashed these hopes by revealing Elizabeth’s demise off-screen. This decision felt like a missed opportunity, especially considering the potential for Elizabeth’s character growth over multiple films.
A New Dawn: Rain and the Promise of Continuity
Thankfully, the upcoming Alien: Romulus offers a glimmer of hope. Early glimpses suggest that Rain, played by Cailee Spaeny, could become a new Ripley-esque figure for the franchise. Unlike the protagonists of the previous two installments, Rain has the potential to survive the events of Romulus and return in future films. This opens the door for a long-term character arc, allowing Rain to develop and mature across multiple narratives.
Beyond Similarities: Rain’s Unique Path
Whether Rain simply mirrors Ripley or carves her own path remains to be seen. However, the prospect of a protagonist who evolves over time is undeniably exciting. Ripley’s journey from warrant officer to hardened survivor is a core element of the franchise’s appeal. Rain’s experiences in Romulus could shape her into a similarly formidable heroine, but with her own unique strengths and vulnerabilities.
Alien: Romulus has the potential to breathe new life into the Alien franchise. By introducing a protagonist with the potential for long-term growth, the film could pave the way for a more cohesive and emotionally engaging narrative across multiple installments. While Rain may or may not become the next Ripley, her presence offers a chance to explore fresh themes and character development within the established universe.
Alien: Romulus | New Final Trailer – YouTube
