Alien Movies Ranked: From Worst To Best Xenomorph Flicks

Hey guys! So, you're an Alien franchise fan, huh? You've come to the right place! We're about to dive deep into the Xenomorph-infested universe and rank every single Alien movie and TV show, from the absolute worst to the undisputed best. Buckle up, because it's going to be a wild ride filled with acid blood, facehuggers, and chestbursters! We're even including Alien: Earth, so you know we're going all in!

Ranking the Alien Universe: A Xenomorphic Gauntlet

Before we get started, let's establish some ground rules. This isn't just about personal preference (though that definitely plays a part!). We're looking at the overall quality of each entry: the story, the characters, the scares, the special effects, and how well it fits into the larger Alien lore. We're talking about the iconic status, the impact on the sci-fi horror genre, and the lasting legacy each film or show has left behind. Think of it as a Xenomorph gauntlet – some are easier to fight than others, but they all have the potential to leave a mark.

Now, let's get to the rankings! Prepare for some controversial opinions, heated debates, and maybe even a few facepalms. But remember, this is all in good fun, and we're all here because we love the Alien universe (even the parts that make us cringe a little).

The Bottom of the Barrel: The Alien Fodder

We're going to start with the entries that, let's be honest, didn't quite stick the landing. These are the ones that left us scratching our heads, wondering what went wrong, and maybe even wishing the Xenomorphs had just stayed in space.

7. Alien: Earth (Fan Film)

Okay, okay, I know what you're thinking: "A fan film? Really?" Yes, really! Alien: Earth is a 2014 fan-made film that attempts to expand the Alien universe. While we appreciate the enthusiasm and dedication of the filmmakers, this one, unfortunately, falls short. The acting is a bit rough around the edges, the special effects are...well, let's just say they're not exactly Oscar-worthy, and the story doesn't quite capture the dread and suspense that make the Alien franchise so great. It's clear that the creators had a passion for the source material, and there are a few interesting ideas sprinkled throughout, but ultimately, Alien: Earth feels more like a tribute than a true addition to the canon. The low budget is apparent, and while fan films can often overcome budgetary limitations with creativity and clever storytelling, this one struggles to escape its constraints. The Xenomorph designs, while attempting to be unique, lack the iconic terror of Giger's original creation. The dialogue sometimes feels clunky and unnatural, and the pacing can be uneven. However, it's important to remember that fan films are labors of love, and the filmmakers poured their hearts and souls into this project. While it may not be a masterpiece, Alien: Earth serves as a testament to the enduring power of the Alien franchise and its ability to inspire fans to create their own stories within its universe. It highlights the challenges of independent filmmaking and the dedication required to bring a vision to life, even with limited resources. So, while it may be at the bottom of our list, we still commend the effort and passion that went into making Alien: Earth. It's a reminder that the Alien universe is vast and continues to inspire creativity, even in the most unexpected corners of the fandom. The film also showcases the power of community and the shared love for a franchise that spans generations. It's a project born out of passion and a desire to contribute to the Alien mythos, which is something to be admired, even if the final product doesn't quite reach the heights of the official films. Alien: Earth is a reminder that the spirit of Alien lives on, not just in Hollywood productions, but also in the hearts and minds of its fans.

6. Alien vs. Predator: Requiem

Ah, Alien vs. Predator: Requiem. Where do we even begin? This 2007 sequel to the already divisive Alien vs. Predator takes the crossover concept and, well, kind of throws it out the airlock. The story is a mess, the characters are forgettable (to say the least), and the shaky cam action sequences are more headache-inducing than thrilling. The biggest sin, however, is the film's decision to shroud almost every scene in darkness, making it nearly impossible to see what's going on. Seriously, it's like the filmmakers thought that obscuring the Xenomorphs and Predators would make them scarier, but it just makes the whole thing feel cheap and frustrating. The Predalien, a hybrid creature born from a Predator host, is a cool concept on paper, but its execution in the film is lacking. The film's attempts at horror feel forced and uninspired, relying more on gore and jump scares than genuine suspense. The small-town setting, while a departure from the usual spacefaring locales of the Alien franchise, feels generic and uninspired. The human characters are largely underdeveloped and serve little purpose beyond being Xenomorph fodder. The film's plot is convoluted and difficult to follow, with little emotional investment in the characters or their fates. Alien vs. Predator: Requiem is a prime example of a sequel that fails to learn from the mistakes of its predecessor, doubling down on the flaws and offering little in the way of redeeming qualities. It's a film that many fans would prefer to forget, a dark chapter in the Alien and Predator franchises that hopefully won't be repeated. Despite its flaws, Alien vs. Predator: Requiem has garnered a cult following among some fans who appreciate its over-the-top gore and creature designs. However, for most, it remains a low point in both franchises, a reminder that not all crossovers are created equal. The film's failure serves as a cautionary tale for future crossover projects, highlighting the importance of a strong story, compelling characters, and a clear vision.

The Middle Ground: Some Hits, Some Misses

These entries have their moments, but they're not quite the masterpieces that the original Alien or Aliens are. They're the kind of movies you might enjoy on a rainy afternoon, but you probably won't be quoting them anytime soon.

5. Alien vs. Predator

The 2004 original Alien vs. Predator is a decent popcorn flick that delivers on its promise of Xenomorphs battling Predators. It's a fun, if somewhat shallow, action movie with some cool creature designs and fight sequences. However, it lacks the suspense and horror of the Alien films, and the characters are fairly forgettable. The premise, while exciting on paper, feels a bit contrived in execution. The idea of ancient Predators hunting Xenomorphs on Earth is intriguing, but the film struggles to create a compelling narrative around it. The human characters, led by Sanaa Lathan's Alexa Woods, are largely there to serve as plot devices, with little in the way of character development. The film's attempts to tie into the mythology of both franchises feel forced and inconsistent. The Predator designs are well-executed, but the Xenomorphs lack the terror and menace of their original appearances. The action sequences are entertaining, but they often prioritize spectacle over suspense, diminishing the horror elements of the Alien franchise. Despite its flaws, Alien vs. Predator is a reasonably entertaining crossover film that delivers on its core concept. It's a fun, albeit forgettable, addition to both franchises, offering a glimpse into a world where these two iconic creatures clash. The film's success at the box office spawned a sequel, Alien vs. Predator: Requiem, which unfortunately failed to capture the same level of entertainment. Alien vs. Predator remains a divisive entry in both franchises, with some fans appreciating its action-packed spectacle while others criticize its lack of depth and faithfulness to the source material. It's a film that's best enjoyed with a healthy dose of suspension of disbelief, a bag of popcorn, and a willingness to embrace its over-the-top nature. The movie also showcases the challenges of balancing two distinct franchises, each with its own established tone and mythology. It's a delicate balancing act that Alien vs. Predator doesn't always pull off, but it still manages to provide a few hours of creature-feature fun.

4. Alien: Resurrection

Alien: Resurrection (1997) is a weird one. It brings back Ripley (Sigourney Weaver) as a clone, which is already a bit of a stretch, and throws her into a story involving military scientists breeding Xenomorphs on a spaceship. The movie has some cool visuals and action sequences, but it also has a very different tone than the previous Alien films. It's more action-oriented and less scary, and the characters, while interesting, don't quite have the same impact as those in the earlier movies. The newborn, a human-Xenomorph hybrid, is a particularly divisive creature design that many fans find off-putting. The film's attempts to explore Ripley's connection to the Xenomorphs feel underdeveloped and somewhat misguided. The dialogue is often clunky and unnatural, and the plot meanders in places. However, Alien: Resurrection does have its moments. The underwater Xenomorph sequence is genuinely thrilling, and Sigourney Weaver's performance is as strong as ever. The supporting cast, including Winona Ryder, Ron Perlman, and Dan Hedaya, bring a certain level of charisma to their roles. The film's visual style is distinctive, with a gothic, almost operatic feel. Despite its flaws, Alien: Resurrection is a watchable entry in the Alien franchise, but it's a far cry from the brilliance of the first two films. It's a film that's best viewed as a standalone sci-fi action movie, rather than a direct continuation of the Alien saga. The movie also highlights the challenges of reviving a beloved franchise after a long hiatus. It's difficult to recapture the magic of the original films while also trying to offer something new and exciting. Alien: Resurrection attempts to strike this balance, but it ultimately falls short of its goals. It's a film that's likely to spark debate among fans, with some appreciating its unique elements and others criticizing its deviations from the established formula.

The Top Tier: Alien Excellence

These are the Alien movies that truly stand the test of time. They're scary, suspenseful, well-written, and feature some of the most iconic characters and creature designs in cinematic history. These are the films that made us fall in love with the Alien universe in the first place.

3. Prometheus

Prometheus (2012) is a prequel to Alien that explores the origins of the Xenomorphs and the Engineers, the mysterious beings who created humanity. The film is visually stunning, with breathtaking special effects and a grand, epic scope. It asks big questions about the origins of life and our place in the universe, which is a welcome departure from the more straightforward horror of the original Alien films. However, Prometheus is also a divisive film. Some fans find its philosophical themes and ambiguous answers frustrating, while others appreciate its ambition and originality. The characters, while well-acted, sometimes make questionable decisions that detract from the film's credibility. The plot can be convoluted and difficult to follow, with several unanswered questions and loose ends. The film's attempts to tie into the Alien mythology feel somewhat forced and inconsistent. However, Prometheus is undeniably a visually impressive and thought-provoking film. Its exploration of existential themes and its stunning visuals make it a unique entry in the Alien franchise. The performances, particularly those of Michael Fassbender as the android David and Noomi Rapace as Elizabeth Shaw, are excellent. The film's score, composed by Marc Streitenfeld, is haunting and evocative. Despite its flaws, Prometheus is a film that stays with you long after the credits roll. It's a film that invites discussion and debate, and it's a testament to the enduring power of the Alien universe to inspire big ideas. The movie also showcases the challenges of creating a prequel to a beloved franchise. It's a difficult balancing act to introduce new elements while also honoring the established mythology. Prometheus attempts to strike this balance, but it ultimately falls short of fully satisfying both camps of fans.

2. Alien 3

Okay, hear me out! Alien 3 (1992) gets a lot of flak, and it's understandable. It kills off Hicks and Newt in the opening scene, which is a major bummer, and it takes place in a prison colony full of bald convicts. However, Alien 3 is also a surprisingly bleak and atmospheric film with some genuinely terrifying moments. David Fincher's direction is stylish and unsettling, and Sigourney Weaver delivers another powerful performance as Ripley. The dog-Alien (or ox-Alien, depending on the version) is a unique and terrifying creature design, and the film's claustrophobic setting adds to the sense of dread. The film's themes of sacrifice and redemption are surprisingly resonant. The plot, while simple, is effective in creating a sense of tension and suspense. The supporting cast, including Charles Dance and Charles S. Dutton, deliver strong performances. Alien 3 is a flawed film, but it's also an underrated one. It's a dark and uncompromising vision of the Alien universe, and it deserves more credit than it often receives. It's a film that's likely to divide fans, but it's also a film that's worth revisiting. The movie also highlights the challenges of following up two iconic films. It's difficult to meet the expectations of fans while also trying to offer something new and different. Alien 3 attempts to strike this balance, but it ultimately falls short of the brilliance of its predecessors. However, it remains a fascinating and controversial entry in the Alien franchise. The film's production was plagued by studio interference and creative conflicts, which undoubtedly impacted the final product. Despite these challenges, Alien 3 is a film that has its own distinct identity and deserves to be appreciated for its unique qualities.

The Undisputed Champion: Alien

1. Alien

Was there ever any doubt? The original Alien (1979) is a masterpiece of sci-fi horror. It's a slow-burn thriller that builds tension masterfully, and the Xenomorph is one of the most iconic movie monsters of all time. The characters are well-developed and relatable, and the performances are universally excellent. Ridley Scott's direction is flawless, and the film's practical effects still hold up incredibly well today. The chestburster scene is one of the most shocking and unforgettable moments in cinematic history. The film's themes of corporate greed and the dangers of the unknown are timeless and relevant. The pacing is perfect, building suspense gradually and relentlessly. The visual design, inspired by the artwork of H.R. Giger, is groundbreaking and unforgettable. Alien is not just a great horror movie; it's a great movie, period. It's a film that has influenced countless other movies and continues to inspire filmmakers today. It's a landmark achievement in cinematic history and a true testament to the power of storytelling. The movie also highlights the importance of practical effects in creating a sense of realism and terror. The Xenomorph, brought to life through a combination of prosthetics, puppetry, and suit acting, is a truly terrifying creation. Alien is a film that has stood the test of time and remains as powerful and effective today as it was when it was first released. It's a must-see for any fan of horror, sci-fi, or cinema in general. The film's success launched a franchise that has spanned decades, but the original Alien remains the gold standard. It's a perfect blend of suspense, horror, and science fiction, and it's a film that will continue to be celebrated for generations to come. The ensemble cast, led by Sigourney Weaver's iconic performance as Ripley, is perfectly cast and delivers memorable performances. Alien is a true masterpiece of cinematic storytelling, a film that has earned its place in the pantheon of great movies.

The Runner-Up: Aliens

2. Aliens

James Cameron's Aliens (1986) is a different beast than the original Alien, but it's just as brilliant in its own way. It's more of an action movie than a horror movie, but it's still incredibly suspenseful and features some truly terrifying moments. The space marines are a fantastic addition to the Alien universe, and the film's battle sequences are thrilling and expertly choreographed. Sigourney Weaver's performance as Ripley is even more iconic in this film, and her relationship with Newt is one of the most heartwarming and compelling in the entire franchise. The Alien Queen is a magnificent creature design, and the final battle between Ripley and the Queen is one of the most epic showdowns in movie history. The film's themes of motherhood and survival are powerful and resonant. The pacing is relentless, keeping the audience on the edge of their seats from start to finish. The visual effects are groundbreaking for their time and still hold up well today. Aliens is a perfect sequel to Alien, expanding the universe and the mythology while also delivering a thrilling and satisfying cinematic experience. It's a film that has influenced countless other action movies and remains a fan favorite to this day. The movie also highlights the importance of strong female characters in action cinema. Ripley is a complex and compelling character who defies traditional gender roles and emerges as a true hero. Aliens is a film that celebrates courage, resilience, and the power of human connection. It's a must-see for any fan of action, horror, or science fiction. The ensemble cast, including Michael Biehn, Bill Paxton, and Lance Henriksen, is excellent and contributes to the film's overall success. Aliens is a true classic of the genre, a film that has earned its place in cinematic history.

Final Thoughts: The Alien Legacy

So, there you have it! Every Alien movie and TV show ranked from worst to best. Of course, this is just one person's opinion, and your mileage may vary. The Alien franchise is a diverse and fascinating universe, and there's something for everyone to enjoy (even in the less-than-stellar entries). What's your favorite Alien movie? Let us know in the comments below! And remember, in space, no one can hear you scream…but online, we can definitely hear your passionate opinions!