For those who may not be aware, the “Alien” franchise is alive and thriving. Ripley (Sigourney Weaver) is non-existent in this TV series prequel to the storied movie franchise that launched in 1979 with the haunting tagline, “In space no one can hear you scream.”
In the eight-episode “Alien: Earth” monster horror series, which dropped the first two episodes on FX/Hulu Aug. 12, this alien tale is also a brother-sister story. Wendy, played by Sydney Chandler (“Don’t Worry Darling”), is the first hybrid human. Her 11-year-old consciousness is placed in an adult humanoid body. Her brother Hermit, portrayed by Alex Lawther (“The Imitation Game”), is human and a soldier.
Together they become involved in the investigation of nefarious creatures from above that escaped from a spaceship that crash-landed on Earth. Timothy Olyphant (“Justified”) is great as Kirsh, an android who investigates the crashed ship.
“Alien: Earth” pays homage to 1953 Disney classic “Peter Pan.” The new series created by Noah Hawley (“Fargo” on TV director) refers to the Lost Boys of “Peter Pan,” although there are lost girls as well this time.
Set in 2120, this monster battle predates the “Alien” movie series. Even though this “Alien” invasion dukes it out on the small screen, it is very well done and the cinematography is up to par. I usually recommend seeing thrillers like this on the big screen. However, I don’t mind taking one for the team and watching it in the convenience of home.
A good reason to give “Alien: Earth” a look-see is that original “Alien” director Ridley Scott serves as one of the executive producers on the TV series.
As usual, I don’t want to give too much of the plot away. This one should be sought out for those with time. It’s that good. The first two episodes, “Neverland” and “Mr. October,” are streaming now. Episodes three though eight are being released on Tuesdays on FX and Hulu.
Grade: A
