After decades of weak sequels and sub-par writing, the “Alien” franchise came back swinging in 2024 with “Alien: Romulus,” directed by Fede Álvarez.

It doesn’t totally jettison the franchise’s 45 years of baggage, but when it does, what’s left is a damn good monster movie. ALIEN: ROMULUS ★★★ (3/4 stars) Directed by: Fede Álvarez ...