The Xenomorph from the Alien film franchise is regarded as one of cinema’s most sinister creations, featuring acid blood, multiple mouths, and vicious claws. This terrifying creature not only defined the space horror genre but also instilled fears for generations.
With the release of Alien: Romulus, viewers are flocking back to rewatch the entire Alien saga. For those wondering the best way to tackle this rewatch, here’s how to watch the films both chronologically and by their theatrical release.
Currently, there are nine Alien movies. This includes four main series films, two crossovers with the Predator franchise, two prequels directed by Ridley Scott, and the latest standalone movie by Fede Álvarez.
Chronological Order of Alien Movies
1. AVP: Alien vs. Predator (2004)
The timeline of Xenomorphs begins with AVP, set in 2004. This crossover film introduces the concept of Predators hunting Xenomorphs for sport, leading to catastrophic results during their modern-day hunts.
Where to watch: Stream on Hulu or rent on Amazon Prime Video.
2. Aliens vs. Predator: Requiem (2007)
The sequel, Aliens vs. Predator: Requiem, picks up directly from where the first film left off. A terrifying Predalien hybrid escapes and wreaks havoc on the Colorado town.
Where to watch: Available for streaming on Hulu and rent on Amazon Prime Video.
3. Prometheus (2012)
Next up is Prometheus, directed by Ridley Scott, where we follow the crew of the spaceship Prometheus on their quest to discover humanity’s creators. Little do they know, their expedition leads them to encounter the deadly Xenomorphs.
Where to watch: Stream on Hulu or rent on Amazon Prime Video.
4. Alien: Covenant (2017)
This prequel continues the story from Prometheus, focusing on the colonization ship Covenant. The crew being awakened early from stasis leads them down another path of deadly encounters tied to the Xenomorph lineage.
Where to watch: Viewable on Hulu and Amazon Prime Video.
5. Alien (1979)
The iconic original film, simply titled Alien, left audiences permanently unsettled with its depiction of the isolated crew of the Nostromo facing off against Xenomorphs. This film marked Sigourney Weaver's legendary role as Ellen Ripley.
Where to watch: Also available on Hulu and Amazon Prime Video.
6. Aliens (1986)
Following the terrifying events of Alien, the sequel Aliens redefined the horror-action genre. Ellen Ripley, back to face the creatures, now battles hordes of Xenomorphs alongside space marines.
Where to watch: You can stream it on Hulu and rent it on Amazon Prime Video.
7. Alien 3 (1992)
Where to watch: Stream it on Hulu or rent on Amazon Prime Video.
8. Alien Resurrection (1997)
The final chapter featuring Ripley, Alien Resurrection, takes place 200 years later as scientists attempt to clone her. This movie throws viewers one last curveball, exploring themes of identity and survival.
Where to watch: Available for streaming on Hulu and for renting on Amazon Prime Video.
Watch the Series by Release Date
If viewing by theatrical release order, the films stack up as follows: Alien (1979), Aliens (1986), Alien 3 (1992), Alien Resurrection (1997), AVP: Alien vs. Predator (2004), Aliens vs. Predator: Requiem (2007), Prometheus (2012), Alien: Covenant (2017), and the newest installment, Alien: Romulus (2024).
For those eager for more, the newly released Alien: Romulus deepens the lore. Director Fede Álvarez hints this film is both standalone and entwined within the broader Alien universe.
Adding to the excitement, there is also an Alien TV series coming from FX, which promises to explore the franchise even more. Though set before the original films, details keep fans buzzing with anticipation.
So, get your popcorn ready, put on your favorite comfy socks, and prepare for Xenomorph-infested journeys. Whether chronological or by release, there’s plenty of existential dread and thrill waiting—happy watching!