Cinopsys
The Alien series has three layers: the original four films, the two Alien vs. Predator crossovers, and a newer run that began with Prometheus. Release order is the easiest way through all of it.
Prometheus (2012) and Alien: Covenant (2017) are prequels to the original Alien. Alien: Romulus (2024) takes place between the events of Alien and Aliens. The two Alien vs. Predator films are crossovers and are optional.
Alien movies in release order
- Alien 1979
- Aliens 1986
- Alien 3 1992
- Alien Resurrection 1997
- Alien vs. Predator 2004
- Aliens vs. Predator: Requiem 2007
- Prometheus 2012
- Alien: Covenant 2017
- Alien: Romulus 2024
How to watch the Alien movies
If you want the core story, you do not need all nine films. Three routes work well:
- Release order (all nine): the full picture, with the franchise changing directors and tone along the way.
- The original four: Alien, Aliens, Alien 3 and Alien Resurrection, which follow Ripley.
- Skip the crossovers: drop the two Alien vs. Predator films and nothing else depends on them.
Track Alien in Cinopsys
In Cinopsys you can build a Alien list, tick each film off as you watch it, and rate them as you go. A short franchise like this is easy to finish, and the list keeps your place if you pause between films.
In space
Nine films, one list. Start with Alien and let Cinopsys keep count.
Frequently asked questions
What order should I watch the Alien movies in?
Release order is the simplest: Alien (1979), Aliens (1986), Alien 3 (1992), Alien Resurrection (1997), Alien vs. Predator (2004), Aliens vs. Predator: Requiem (2007), Prometheus (2012), Alien: Covenant (2017) and Alien: Romulus (2024).
How many Alien movies are there?
There are nine films in this list, from 1979 to 2024, including the two Alien vs. Predator crossovers.
Are Prometheus and Covenant prequels?
Yes. Both are prequels to the original Alien.
Do I have to watch the Alien vs. Predator films?
No. They are crossover films, and the rest of the series does not depend on them.