A sci-fi film directed by Ridley Scott that’s hailed by fans as a “masterpiece” is streaming now in the UK. Prometheus (2012) is the fifth film in the iconic Alien franchise, and focuses scientists who discover shocking clues that humanity may have been created by an ancient alien race, and travel to a distant world to investigate.
But in their efforts to unravel the mystery they make a horrifying discovery that could end the human race. The psychological thriller features an all-star ensemble cast, including Noomi Rapace, Michael Fassbender, Guy Pearce, Idris Elba, Logan Marshall-Green, and Charlize Theron. The film serves as a prequel to the first film in the franchise, Alien (1979) which was also directed by Scott, and spawned a number of successful sequels directed by Hollywood titans including James Cameron and David Fincher, as well as a cross-over franchise, Alien vs. Predator.
One fan, writing on Rotten Tomatoes, called Prometheus a “masterpiece”. “This movie expands the Alien world and lore,” they added. “The acting is top notch. The sci-fi horror element is incredible. Very existential. Watch it with commentary.”
Another described simply as the “Best movie of all time”.
Not everyone was blown away by the prequel, with one writing while Prometheus “looks phenomenal” its “strong visuals cannot hide weak writing”.
“The dialogue feels stiff and unnatural, making it hard to connect with the characters.”
Another wrote: “It’s frustrating how amazing this film could’ve been. Solid cast, beautifully shot, original story. Scott should’ve either made a film about our creators or an Alien prequel; instead the two elements get too muddled together and neither gets full service.”
But others felt it lived up to the high standard set by the stronger films of the franchise.
One wrote: “This was a perfectly cast movie. It gave excellent insight into the origins of the Alien lore. Excellently tied in with the existing movies. Not too many Aliens ripping people apart but plenty of action. Truly a great movie.”
Another dismissed criticism of the film, insisting it’s “gripping, thought provoking, visually stunning and entertaining from start to finish”.
A third called it an “incredible and impactful film that deserves to be seen multiple times”.
A fourth said its “massively underrated in the Alienverse”, with a “strong script, amazing cast”, and VFX that’s “on point”.
The movie has a 15 certificate and contains strong violence, gore, as well as threat and horror – so viewer discretion is advised.
Prometheus was added to Netflix in the UK on Monday (February 16). It’s also available to stream on Disney+, and to rent or buy on various platforms, including Apple TV, Amazon Prime Video, and Sky Store.
