The new Alien movie, Alien: Romulus, is coming out on August 16th and the studio is really hyping it up. They’re mixing old-school promos with behind-the-scenes sneak peeks to get fans excited. Director Fede Alvarez and the cast have been sharing some clues about the plot and how they made the movie. They want us to feel like we’re back in the original Alien films but also experience something new.

In a recent featurette, the lead actress Cailee Spaeny, who plays Rain, explained that the story happens between the first Alien movie and Aliens. That means it fits right in with what happened before but can also surprise us. She said being part of this iconic sci-fi series is so cool. “You really feel like you’re walking in the same spaceships.”

Alvarez has also said practical effects were a huge priority, just like in the original Alien directed by Ridley Scott. Actor David Jonsson, who plays Rain’s brother Andy, agreed. He said there were no green screens – they actually built all the spaceship sets and creatures with their own hands. Alvarez wants us to really believe we’re alongside the characters in danger.

The movie centers around siblings Rain and Andy trying to start over after a tough past. But their journey takes a scary turn when secrets on the ship they’re traveling on end up threatening their lives. Alvarez teased that “there’s a lot they don’t know that will cost them.”

He aim to smoothly blend the suspense of Alien with the action of Aliens. Emphasizing both the fear and adrenaline. “One moment you’re somewhere from Alien, then you cross a hallway and boom – you’re in Aliens territory.”

To hype fans, the studio is releasing collector’s items like an alien popcorn bucket. And in a truly retro move, they sent movie critics VHS tapes with exclusive clips, just like back in the day. With practical effects, an intriguing story, and nostalgic promotion, Romulus looks ready to capture what we love about Alien and scare us all over again.

Tags: 20th Century Studios Aileen Wu Alien: Romulus Cailee Spaeny Fede Álvarez Horror Isabela Merced Sci-Fi Spike Fearn