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Ridley Scott, renowned for his visionary approach to filmmaking, set out to challenge the conventions of the sci-fi genre with his 1979 filmAlien. In a bold move, he envisionedAliento be the complete opposite ofStar Wars.Further, deliberately crafting a storyline that diverged sharply from the space opera’s epic, heroic tones.
Instead of the adventurous and optimistic universe of George Lucas’s creation, Scott’sAlienintroduced audiences to a darker, and intensely terrifying world. Further, redefining the sci-fi landscape with its unique, horror-driven approach.
Ridley Scott on Making Alien the Opposite of Star Wars
Star Warsset a new standard for science fiction movies. Following which, the late 1970s saw a wave of similar sci-fi films. Studios quickly released movies likeStar Trek: The Motion Picture, Disney’sThe Black Hole,the sci-fi-infused James Bond adventureMoonraker, and Japan’s bold take on the Star Wars formula,Message from Space. However,Ridley Scott’sAlienstood out among these releases.
In an interview withThe Hollywood Reporter,Scott shared that his goal forAlienwas to create something completely“Antithesis of Star Wars.”Further, he was inspired by Stanley Kubrick’s2001: A Space Odyssey, which offered a more realistic portrayal of space. And wantedAliento contrast the polished and romanticized depiction of space travel seen in George Lucas’s 1977 blockbuster.
In the same interview, he further reflected on howStar Warspresented a more fantastical and idealized version of space, while2001: A Space Odysseyshowcased the cold, harsh realities of the cosmos. These two contrasting movies had a profound impact on his views, particularly regarding technology.
“It’ll probably get made”: One of the Best ‘Alien’ Movies That Got 4 Oscar Nominations Deserves a Sequel Faster Than Ridley Scott’s Franchise and the Director Believes That Too
He realized, perhaps for the first time, the superior intelligence of computers over humans – a theme explored through the character of Ash inAlien, who embodies the potential dangers of artificial intelligence. So, Scott deliberately chose to distance his movie from the shiny,futuristic visionof space seen inStar Wars.
Instead, he envisioned a grittier, more worn-in universe where spaceships weren’t pristine or cutting-edge but felt used and industrial, like a spacefaring freight ship. This approach was Scott’s subtle reaction against the sleek, polished aesthetic thatStar Warshad popularized, markingAlienas a distinct and innovative entry in the science fiction genre.
Why Did Ridley Scott Avoid Meddling in Alien: Romulus?
As reported byVariety, Ridley Scott, the visionary behind the iconicAlienfranchise, handed over the directorial reins to Fede Alvarez for the recently releasedAlien: Romulus. While stepping back from the director’s chair, Scott remained deeply involved as a producer, offering guidance and support to the new helmsman.
The seasoned filmmaker acknowledged the challenges of maintaining a franchise’s vitality, emphasizing the need for fresh perspectives. He praised Alvarez’s enthusiasm and creative vision, noting that the young director brought new energy to theAlienuniverse.
Despite his typically hands-on approach, Scott was adamant about giving Alvarez the creative freedom to shape the film without excessive interference.
“Ridley says you’re fat”: Joaquin Phoenix Stopped Eating for Weeks after Ridley Scott Humiliated Him While Filming ‘Gladiator’
Alvarez, in turn, expressed both excitement and trepidation about taking on such a high-profile project. He acknowledged the immense pressure of working on a franchise created by a cinematic legend like Scott and the importance of gaining the veteran director’s approval.
You can watchAlien: Romulusin theatres near you. Further, Ridley Scott’sAlienis available to stream on Hulu and Fubo TV.
Sakshi Singh
Articles Published :1434
Sakshi Singh has written over 1,300 entertainment articles, mostly about Netflix shows and reality TV. She’s spent the last two years covering everything from surprise engagements to shocking eliminations and previously wrote for Essentially Sports in their Netflix Junkie division. A self-proclaimed reality TV addict, Sakshi has watched all 48 seasons of Survivor and never misses a new dating or competition series. She loves watching how strangers meet, fall in love, team up, or betray each other - it’s the mix of strategy and drama that keeps her hooked. When she’s not glued to a reality show, she’s usually watching a crime thriller or tracking the next big streaming hit.
