Is “Alien: Earth” Missing the Mark with Too Much Earth and Not Enough Alien?
As a devoted fan of the Alien franchise, the anticipation for the new series “Alien: Earth” was palpable. However, after watching the initial episodes, a sense of bewilderment lingered. The show’s departure from the survival horror essence that defined the movies left me wanting. While the presence of blood and gore is unmistakable, the crucial element of suspense seems conspicuously absent.
Noah Hawley, renowned for his work on series like Legion and Fargo, helms this new venture. Despite the commendable effort to explore diverse themes and genres, the execution falls short. The struggle to carve out a distinct identity for the series is evident, marring the overall viewing experience.
A Lack of Alien, A Surfeit of Earth
With a longstanding legacy spanning seven films since 1979, including crossovers with the Predator franchise, the Alien universe has captivated audiences with its enigmatic Xenomorph. The gradual revelation of the iconic creature’s horrors has been a cornerstone of the franchise’s allure. However, “Alien: Earth” prematurely discloses the Xenomorph in its debut episode, robbing the narrative of the tension crucial for a compelling storyline.
While the series visually harks back to the aesthetics of the original films, the narrative trajectory diverges into territories akin to Prometheus and Alien: Covenant. Herein lies the predicament—otherworldly beings, androids, cyborgs, and hybrids vie for attention alongside the Xenomorph. The pivot towards exploring the dilemmas of these entities dilutes the core terror that defined the franchise.
The Challenge of Characterization
In the realm of television, character-driven storytelling reigns supreme. “Alien: Earth” attempts to delve into the psyches of characters like Wendy and the hybrid children. However, the premise of children inhabiting adult bodies raises skepticism about their ability to carry the series. The juxtaposition of enhanced physical forms with immature mental faculties undermines the credibility of their involvement in intense confrontations, detracting from the gravity of the narrative.
Episode 5, “In Space, No One…,” stands out as a beacon of hope amidst the series’ shortcomings. The inclusion of seasoned adult characters and a return to the eerie ambiance reminiscent of the original films inject a much-needed dose of nostalgia and intrigue.
Looking Ahead
While the final two episodes of “Alien: Earth” remain unexplored, the prospect of a redemption arc looms. Yet, the delay in pivoting back to the franchise’s core essence raises doubts about the series’ ability to recapture its former glory. As a self-proclaimed aficionado of all things Alien, the preponderance of hybrid-centric narratives at the expense of the Xenomorph’s ominous aura feels disheartening.
In essence, the allure of the Alien franchise lies in its ability to evoke primal fear through the unknown and the uncanny. As “Alien: Earth” unfolds its narrative, the balance between Earthly dilemmas and extraterrestrial horrors seems skewed. For a series bearing the hallmark of “Alien,” the yearning for a return to the franchise’s roots remains palpable.
Ultimately, the verdict on “Alien: Earth” hinges on the resolution offered in the concluding episodes. Will the series find its footing, striking a harmonious chord between Earth and Alien, or will it continue to grapple with its identity crisis? As the premiere date draws near, the anticipation for a riveting and authentic Alien experience remains undiminished.
Alien: Earth premieres on FX in the US on August 12, 2025, and on Disney+ in the UK on August 13, 2025.