What's Happening?
FX's upcoming series, Alien: Earth, is set to diverge from the prequel narratives established by Ridley Scott in Prometheus and Alien: Covenant. Showrunner Noah Hawley, known for his work on Fargo, has consulted with Scott but ultimately decided to focus on the lore of the original Alien films. This decision aligns with FX's vision for the series to exist in parallel to the film franchise, rather than fitting together like the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Alien: Earth will feature a storyline centered around the USCSS Maginot, a deep space research vessel that crash-lands on Earth, introducing new alien species alongside the familiar xenomorphs. The series is expected to be a major production, with FX hoping it will achieve the success of shows like Game of Thrones or The Last of Us.
AD
Why It's Important?
The decision to diverge from the prequels and focus on the original Alien lore could have significant implications for the franchise's future. By not adhering strictly to the established prequel narratives, Alien: Earth has the potential to attract both long-time fans and new viewers who appreciate the original films' retro-futurism. This approach may also allow for creative freedom in storytelling, potentially revitalizing interest in the Alien franchise. The series' success could influence future productions within the franchise, setting a precedent for how interconnected or independent future installments might be. Additionally, the show's large-scale production and high expectations underscore FX's commitment to delivering a high-quality series that could become a flagship for the network.
What's Next?
Alien: Earth is set to premiere its first two episodes on August 12 on Hulu, with subsequent episodes releasing weekly. As the series unfolds, viewers and critics will likely assess how well it balances new elements with the established Alien universe. The show's reception could impact FX's future decisions regarding the franchise, including potential spin-offs or additional seasons. Fans will also be keen to see how the series addresses the timeline and lore, particularly in relation to the original films and the broader Alien universe.
Beyond the Headlines
The decision to diverge from the prequels raises questions about the creative direction of long-standing franchises. It highlights the tension between maintaining continuity and allowing for creative innovation. This move by FX and Hawley could inspire other franchises to explore similar paths, potentially leading to a broader trend of reimagining established universes. Additionally, the series' focus on new alien species and the introduction of hybrid characters may explore themes of identity and coexistence, resonating with contemporary societal issues.
