MOVIE NEWS – The film is set between Alien and Aliens, featuring Ripley in cryogenic sleep following her battle with the xenomorphs. Despite some criticism, Alien: Romulus has proven to be successful, attracting fans with its refreshed storytelling and new characters. The following article contains spoilers for Alien: Romulus.

Director of Alien: Romulus has revealed that Ellen Ripley, the iconic lead character of the Alien franchise, appears in his legacy sequel as an Easter egg. If you’re planning to rewatch the film with this in mind, note that Fede Álvarez says she’s “hiding in plain sight.”

To clarify, Ellen Ripley is alive during the events of Alien: Romulus, as the film takes place between Alien (1979) and Aliens (1986). She remains in cryostasis after her encounter with the xenomorphs in the original film, before being discovered by Weyland-Yutani in the direct sequel for retribution.

Alien: Romulus returns to the roots of the highly successful Alien franchise. While exploring a derelict space station, a group of young space colonizers come face to face with the most terrifying life form in the universe.

Álvarez recently appeared on the ReelBlend podcast, where he shared his perspective on Ripley’s status during the events of Alien: Romulus, a film he co-wrote with frequent collaborator Rodo Sayagues. When asked if Ripley could be part of the story, Álvarez was cryptic:

“I wouldn’t say it’s impossible. Because no one knows exactly what happened during all those years she’s been drifting. I can’t say more. I think for legal reasons, I can’t say more. I would say it’s not impossible. It’s totally possible that it could have been part of this story somehow.”

“There are a few things that I’ve hidden in the movie that answer this question. It’s just very well hidden. But they’re somewhat visible.”

Does this mean Ripley might be part of the Alien: Romulus storyline? As the director mentions, revealing too much would “defeat the whole purpose”. However, his reluctance to provide more details might be related to the controversy surrounding another significant Easter egg in Alien: Romulus. This involves an android resembling Ian Holm that plays a major role in the third act and has received mixed reactions from fans due to Álvarez’s creative decisions.

Ripley’s presence is much more subtle, with the Easter egg – or facehugger egg – still yet to be discovered.

Alien: Romulus Stands Out as the Best Alien Film in Nearly 40 Years

Things are looking bright for Fede Álvarez and his installment in the Alien franchise. The film has already grossed $118 million at the box office and holds an impressive 81% critic rating and an 86% audience score on Rotten Tomatoes. Despite some backlash on Film Twitter, Alien: Romulus has brought together fans who appreciate the fresh direction and new characters. For Álvarez, this film reflects the positive reception of his previous legacy sequel/remake, 2013’s Evil Dead, demonstrating his ability to rejuvenate major franchises.

Alien: Romulus stars Cailee Spaeny, David Jonsson, Archie Renaux, Isabela Merced, Spike Fearn, and Aileen Wu, among others. Producers include notable figures from the franchise, Ridley Scott and Walter Hill. Initially intended for a direct-to-streaming release, 20th Century Studios quickly decided on a theatrical release, which has proven to be a great decision given the film’s excellent cinematic experience.