The latest installment in the Alien franchise, Alien: Romulus, has drawn in more money at the global box office than any other horror film released this year. Directed by Fede Alvarez, the sci-fi thriller earned $285.3 million worldwide in just three weeks in theaters. This success surpassed the previous highest-grossing horror film of 2024, A Quiet Place: Day One, which made $261.5 million globally.
Alien: Romulus continues to attract audiences. During the recent Labor Day weekend, it came in second place at the box office with an additional $11 million. Domestically, ticket sales have reached $90.6 million so far. International markets contributed $194.7 million to its total worldwide earnings. One key market was China, where the movie grossed $93.1 million.
Notably, Alien: Romulus achieved this financial success on a relatively small $80 million budget. Industry experts often consider much higher budgets standard for major franchise films. In addition to box office records, reviews have also been favorable. The film holds an 80% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, indicating positive critical reception.
The film’s journey to theaters was unexpected according to director Alvarez. Originally slated for streaming on Hulu, the plan changed as movie theaters saw improving business during production. Alvarez said the announcement that Alien: Romulus would screen in theaters led to celebration among cast and crew who wanted that theater experience.
Alien: Romulus became the second highest-grossing debut in the franchise, trailing only Prometheus which opened to $51 million. It has also outearned the previous installment Alien: Covenant, which made $74.2 million domestic and $240.8 million worldwide in 2017. The success in China is notable as Hollywood films have struggled there in recent years. Alien: Romulus was one of few American films like Godzilla vs. Kong: The New Empire to find significant Chinese audiences this year.
As Alien: Romulus continues in theaters, analysts watch to see if it can surpass Prometheus’ franchise-best global total of $403.3 million. Regardless, the film has already reinvigorated the Alien series and sets the stage for future installments. By frightening audiences with a blend of thrills and sci-fi action, Alien: Romulus proves that after 45 years the franchise started by Ridley Scott remains compelling as ever.
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