FX’s new “Alien” prequel, “Alien: Earth,” presents a fresh perspective for viewers anticipating the traditional horror associated with Xenomorphs. Instead, the series dives deep into the realm of Peter Pan metaphors, which may not resonate with everyone. This narrative choice is intentional, as the show explores the concept of unnatural hybrids and the consequences of combining elements that were once separate, or perhaps shouldn't be combined at all.
At the center of this intriguing storyline is the young trillionaire, Boy Kavalier, portrayed by Samuel Blenkin. As the founder of Prodigy, one of five major corporations exerting control over the globe, Kavalier finds delight in reading passages from J.M. Barrie's work to his group of powerful synthetic beings, known as the “Lost Boys.” These six synthetic creatures are not merely robots; they are the transferred consciousnesses of dying children, designed to embody the flexibility and potential of youth.
The standout among these hybrids is Wendy, a lively and charming synth played by Sydney Chandler. We first encounter Wendy as Marcy, a thoughtful 12-year-old girl battling cancer. As the eldest of the group, she takes on the role of mentor to her fellow synths: Slightly (Adarsh Gourav), Smee (Jonathan Ajayi), Curly (Erana James), Nibs (Lily Newmark), and Tootles (Kit Young). This unique ensemble forms a micro-society that contrasts sharply with the grim reality of the human world depicted throughout the series.
The environment in which the Lost Boys reside is reminiscent of a Jurassic Park-style paradise, aptly named Neverland. This setting serves as a stark contrast to the oppressive dystopias typical of the broader Alien franchise. The charming atmosphere of Neverland is bolstered by characters like Dame Silvia (Essie Davis), a maternal figure overseeing the synths, and Kirsh (Timothy Olyphant), an older synthetic who manages security and Kavalier’s unpredictable moods.
As the plot unfolds, “Alien: Earth” delves into philosophical themes surrounding unnatural hybrids, examining how consciousness and identity interact with different physical forms. The character of Hermit (Alex Lawther), who works off corporate debt as a soldier-medic, serves as a narrative link between the human and synthetic worlds. His name echoes the hermit crab's nature of occupying foreign vessels, a metaphor that resonates throughout the series.
While the franchise traditionally focuses on body horror and predatory themes, this series shifts towards the idea of occupation, suggesting that one’s consciousness and identity can remain intact despite physical changes. Set in 2120, just two years prior to Ridley Scott’s iconic 1979 “Alien”, the series begins aboard the USCSS Maginot, a ship on a lengthy mission to transport specimens for Yutani Corporation, a corporate rival to Prodigy. The visual aesthetics and crew dynamics pay homage to the original film while introducing new layers of complexity.
The plot accelerates when the Maginot crashes on Kavalier's property, initiating a search-and-rescue mission led by Hermit. As Kavalier grapples with the presence of alien species onboard, he opts for containment rather than cooperation with Yutani, setting the stage for corporate intrigue. However, the series isn't without its flaws, displaying uneven character development, particularly in the rivalry between Morrow (Babou Ceesay), a cyborg for Yutani, and Kavalier’s deputy Kirsh.
Chandler’s portrayal of Wendy is a highlight of the series. She brings depth to her character, navigating the complex themes of identity and the implications of superhuman capabilities. However, some narrative choices, particularly in the finale, may seem tonally inconsistent, leading to moments that feel celebratory inappropriately amid the critiques of hyper-capitalism. This inconsistency raises questions about the overall focus and intention of the series.
“Alien: Earth” premiered with two episodes on August 12 on FX and is available for streaming on Hulu, with new episodes airing weekly. While it may diverge from traditional Alien horror, it offers a unique exploration of identity, consciousness, and the ethical dilemmas surrounding technological advancements in a captivating narrative landscape. Fans of the franchise may find this new installment refreshing, albeit with a few narrative missteps along the way.
