The Original ALIEN Returning To Theaters Once More

No matter how many lackluster sequels and spinoffs pile up, nothing will ever diminish the impact of the original 1979 Alien — one of the finest films ever made. It changed everything about how science fiction and horror films were shot. It brought the genre out of the realm of cheesiness and campiness and produced a vision of terror that felt REAL. For those who have always wanted to dare to see the original Xenomorph up close, another chance is coming soon.

20th Century Studios has announced a new theatrical run this April 26 (Alien Day) in honor of the franchise’s 45th anniversary (which isn’t precisely that day, it came out in May) and to drum up hype for the coming sequel Alien: Romulus in August (which probably won’t be as good as Alien, but we can hope). The re-screening will include a special featurette about both Alien and Romulus including a conversation between the directors of the two films.

The last time 20th Century re-issued this movie in theaters was for the 25th anniversary in 2004. That time, the film was a different cut by Ridley Scott that used alternate takes of some scenes as well as a truncated version of the deleted Dallas Coccoon Scene. It’s an amazing and powerful scene that hammers home just how alone Ripley is, but it’s difficult to fit into the pace of the final act and IMO it kind of sticks out. I love the scene — when it’s in the bonus features of a DVD. Hopefully this is the original cut.

Alien doesn’t play on the big screen often, so don’t miss your chance this time! Check the listings for where it’ll be playing nearest you.