Alien movies in order Alien Marathon
Ready for a full deep space binge? The Alien films deliver relentless tension, atmospheric horror and one of the most iconic creatures in movie history. Whether you're returning to the nightmare or discovering it for the first time, this marathon keeps the pressure high and the suspense razor sharp from the first signal to the final encounter.
Page Last Modified:
15 December 2025
Most Recent Release:
Alien Resurrection - 1997
Total Runtime:
477 Minutes
Total Items:
4
Average User Score:
(7)Watching orders for Alien
Alien movies in order
So, you've got all the Alien movies you could want, but now you're wondering: in what order should you watch them? The Alien franchise is legendary, but with all its prequels, sequels, and xenomorphs lurking around every corner, it's easy to get lost. Don't worry, we've got just the right chronological viewing order for you. We'll start with the original 1979 Alien and end with the bizarre yet captivating Alien Resurrection. Whether you're a die-hard fan or just joining Ellen Ripley in space for the first time, this marathon will take you on a journey through the tense, grim, and occasionally insane universe of the Alien films. Grab some popcorn, turn off the bright lights, and get ready for some survival horror in space.
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1
Alien Movie 117 min. 1979During its return to the earth, commercial spaceship Nostromo intercepts a distress signal from a distant planet. When a three-member team of the crew discovers a chamber containing thousands of eggs on the planet, a creature inside one of the eggs attacks an explorer. The entire crew is unaware of the impending nightmare set to descend upon them when the alien parasite planted inside its unfortunate host is birthed.USER SCORE 8 -
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Aliens Movie 137 min. 1986Ripley, the sole survivor of the Nostromo's deadly encounter with the monstrous Alien, returns to Earth after drifting through space in hypersleep for 57 years. Although her story is initially met with skepticism, she agrees to accompany a team of Colonial Marines back to LV-426.USER SCORE 8 -
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Alien³ Movie 114 min. 1992After escaping with Newt and Hicks from the alien planet, Ripley crash lands on Fiorina 161, a prison planet and host to a correctional facility. Unfortunately, although Newt and Hicks do not survive the crash, a more unwelcome visitor does. The prison does not allow weapons of any kind, and with aid being a long time away, the prisoners must simply survive in any way they can.USER SCORE 6 -
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Alien Resurrection Movie 109 min. 1997Two hundred years after Lt. Ripley died, a group of scientists clone her, hoping to breed the ultimate weapon. But the new Ripley is full of surprises … as are the new aliens. Ripley must team with a band of smugglers to keep the creatures from reaching Earth.USER SCORE 6
Alien (1979)
This is where it all begins. Ridley Scott's original Alien (1979) isn't just a milestone in science fiction; it's the blueprint for claustrophobic horror in space. With a legendary cast—Sigourney Weaver as Ripley, Tom Skerritt as Dallas, and John Hurt as Kane—and creature design by H.R. Giger that'll haunt your dreams, this film sets the bar for everything that follows. The crew of the Nostromo gets sent to LV-426 after a distress signal is received, and what they find there is... well, let's just say it might ruin the surprise. Watching this film, you immediately feel the threat, tension, and coldness that make the Alien franchise so unique.
Aliens (1986)
Thought one xenomorph was bad? You've got to see Aliens (1986). This time, James Cameron's at the helm, and he's cranked up the action. Ripley returns with a group of space marines who think they're ready for anything (spoiler: they're not). The scene switches to the Hadley's Hope colony on LV-426, and the vibe is a cool mix of military sci-fi action and horror. We meet Hicks (Michael Biehn), Newt (Carrie Henn), Hudson (Bill Paxton with his famous "Game over, man!"), and Bishop (Lance Henriksen), an android who tests Ripley's trust. And who could forget the queen xenomorph and that unforgettable power loader fight?
Alien³ (1992)
After the adrenaline rush of Aliens, Alien³ (1992) slows the pace but ramps up the intensity. David Fincher, in his first time directing, brings a darker, grittier tone. Set on Fiorina 161, a remote prison planet with no weapons, Ripley finds herself stranded with a new threat. This time, she's really on her own, both literally and figuratively. The film's existential tone and oppressive atmosphere make it a must-watch for anyone wanting to understand the Alien universe. Charles S. Dutton and Charles Dance really shine in their roles as Dillon and Clemens, respectively, making this film a must-see.
Alien Resurrection (1997)
You thought space was safe again? Think again. Alien Resurrection (1997) is coming. Jean-Pierre Jeunet (Amélie) brings a weird, almost grotesque style to the franchise in a film set 200 years after Alien³. Ripley's back, but this time he's a clone with xenomorph DNA. This is the most experimental film of the quadrilogy, with bioweapon experiments, androids (Winona Ryder as Call), and a new type of alien that borders on body horror. Set on the spaceship USM Auriga, where a new generation of scientists with shady intentions has taken over, Ron Perlman as Johner provides some much-needed comic relief. The film talks about who we are, how we change, and what it means to be human or a monster.
Why Should You Watch This Alien Movie Marathon in This Order?
The Alien movies are more than just a bunch of sci-fi films. They're a story about survival, being human, and the limits of technology that keeps getting bigger. If you start with Alien (1979) and go in order, you'll see how Ripley's character grows and changes, and you'll also see how the world of the Alien movies changes over time. From the first facehugger to the genetically engineered xenomorphs in Resurrection, each film builds on the last. You'll follow the impact of the Weyland-Yutani Corporation, see how androids become more humanlike (or scarier), and learn about the alien hive structure and their evolutionary potential. This order has the perfect mix of horror, action, drama, and weird sci-fi vibes, with a finale that leaves you with questions and goosebumps.
Bonus: What to Snack on During Your Marathon
No Alien movie marathon is complete without the right snacks. For Alien, go with classic popcorn. For Aliens, switch to something spicy, like chips with jalapeño dip. For Alien³, keep it somber and dark, maybe with black licorice or dark chocolate. And for Resurrection, go for something weird and unexpected, like sour candies or bubble tea with jelly balls. Hydration is key, but watch out: no dairy during facehugger scenes. Just for the vibe.
Ready to get started? Hey, let's get this first film going!
No matter how you're watching, by yourself, with friends, or during an online watch party, this Alien movie marathon is like a trip through four decades of film history. Sigourney Weaver's Ripley is your guide as you explore the darkest corners of the universe. So grab your blanket, close the curtains, and get ready to be immersed in one of the most iconic sci-fi horror franchises ever. And remember: in space, no one can hear you scream... but your neighbors might. Enjoy the show!