Are you ready to navigate the complex and often contradictory tapestry of the Alien universe?
Prepare to delve into the complete Alien timeline, stretching from the genesis hinted at in Prometheus to the cloning experiments of Alien: Resurrection, with a few Predator encounters tossed into the mix for good measure. Piecing together the chronology of this iconic sci-fi franchise is no easy feat, given the prequels, sequels, spin-offs, and varying levels of canonicity. This is your comprehensive guide to understanding the sprawling narrative. The Alien franchise, particularly after Ridley Scott's return with
Prometheus in 2012, has become anything but straightforward.
Prometheus, intended as a film emerging from the "DNA" of
Alien, ironically became a source of confusion for many viewers. The film series spans centuries and light-years, necessitating a thorough guide for anyone attempting to watch the films in chronological order. Here, we dissect the established and inferred events to present the most coherent timeline possible. Keep in mind, however, that some aspects of the Alien universe remain open to interpretation and debate, adding to the franchise's enduring mystique.
| Franchise Element | Details |
|---|
| Franchise Name | Alien (and related Predator/AVP) |
| First Film Release | Alien (1979) |
| Most Recent Film Release | Alien: Covenant (2017) |
| Key Themes | Xenomorph biology, corporate greed, existential horror, artificial intelligence, creation and destruction. |
| Notable Directors | Ridley Scott, James Cameron, David Fincher, Jean-Pierre Jeunet |
| Main Protagonist | Ellen Ripley (primarily, in the original quadrilogy) |
| Antagonist | Xenomorph XX12 (and related forms), Weyland-Yutani Corporation |
| Canon Status of AVP | Generally considered non-canon to the main Alien/Aliens timeline |
| Timeline Complexity | High, due to prequels, sequels, and varying levels of canonicity |
| Notable Spin-Offs | Numerous comics, novels, video games, and crossover films (AVP) |
| Original Source | Alien Universe Official Website |
