Alien Movies in Order
A science fiction horror film franchise, focusing on Lieutenant Ellen Ripley (Sigourney Weaver) and her battle with an extraterrestrial life-form, commonly referred to as "the Alien". Produced by 20th Century Fox, the series started with the 1979 film Alien, then Aliens in 1986, Alien³ in 1992, and Alien: Resurrection in 1997.
Alien Watch Order
Watch Alien in Order
Watch the Alien movies in release order, starting with Alien (1979) and continuing through Alien Resurrection (1997). The series spans 4 films, released between 1979 and 1997. Audiences rate the franchise 7.2/10 on average.
What order should you watch Alien?
For most viewers, release order is the recommended way to watch Alien. This is how the story was crafted and revealed to audiences — earlier films seed details, callbacks, and twists that pay off in later entries. Watching in release order preserves those reveals and matches the pacing the filmmakers intended.
Alien largely tracks its own in-universe chronology, so release order and chronological order overlap closely. You can use either without losing much, though release order is still the safest first watch.
About the Alien franchise
A science fiction horror film franchise, focusing on Lieutenant Ellen Ripley (Sigourney Weaver) and her battle with an extraterrestrial life-form, commonly referred to as "the Alien". Produced by 20th Century Fox, the series started with the 1979 film Alien, then Aliens in 1986, Alien³ in 1992, and Alien: Resurrection in 1997.
Each film builds on the previous one, rewarding viewers who watch in sequence.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Where can I watch Alien movies online?
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