Film Course - Alien: Evolution of a Franchise

When Alien burst out of cinema’s chest in 1979, it changed science fiction and horror forever. Revolutionary and deeply unsettling, it introduced audiences to a world that was rich with themes of gender, corporate exploitation, and bodily violation. Central to its power was H.R. Giger’s extraordinary design work and Ridley Scott’s precise filmmaking, which together created one of the most iconic visions in cinema history. What followed is a fascinating evolution.
Like the Xenomorph itself, the Alien franchise has continually morphed with the times. Aliens (1986) transformed the slow-burn horror of the original into a relentless action thriller, while subsequent entries, directed by filmmakers including David Fincher, Jean-Pierre Jeunet, and Fede Álvarez, each bring their own distinct style perspective. Across 5 weeks, we’ll explore how a single core idea has been reinterpreted across decades, examining why the franchise has endured, even as later films take bold and sometimes divisive, creative directions. The course will include clips and discussion, exploring both the highs and lows of this fascinating and freaky cinematic world.
Tutor: Aaron Hollins
Duration: 5 weeks
When: Wednesday evenings from Wed 1 July – Wed 29 July 2026, 7pm–8.30pm
Price: £40 full / £32.50 members / £35 concessions / £27.50 under 25s