Aliens vs. Predator: Requiem

Aliens vs Predator Requiem poster

Aliens vs. Predator: Requiem (AVP:R) is a 2007 American science fiction film directed by the Brothers Strause (Colin and Greg Strause) in their directorial debut, written by Shane Salerno, and starring Steven Pasquale, Reiko Aylesworth, John Ortiz, Johnny Lewis, and Ariel Gade. It is a sequel to the 2004 film Alien vs. Predator and the second installment in the Alien vs. Predator franchise, combining the characters and creatures of the Alien and Predator franchises.

The film's plot revolves around a Predalien (a hybrid of Predator and Alien species) and several facehuggers that crash-land on Earth in a Predator spaceship, initiating an outbreak of Aliens in the small town of Gunnison, Colorado. A lone Predator arrives to "clean up" the infestation, leading to a violent and bloody confrontation between the two species, with humans caught in the middle.

Plot

The film opens with a Predator spaceship crashing into Earth, carrying Predalien and facehuggers. In Gunnison, Colorado, the facehuggers infect several humans, leading to the birth of new Aliens. As the Alien infestation grows, a lone Predator arrives on Earth, equipped with advanced weaponry, to contain the situation by killing all Aliens and any evidence of their presence.

Local residents, including ex-convict Dallas Howard (Steven Pasquale), sheriff Eddie Morales (John Ortiz), and army veteran Kelly O'Brien (Reiko Aylesworth), find themselves in the midst of the deadly conflict. The humans must navigate the chaos, seeking safety from both the indiscriminate aggression of the Aliens and the cleanup mission of the Predator.

Production

Directed by the Brothers Strause, Aliens vs. Predator: Requiem was their first feature film. The film aimed to be darker and more intense than its predecessor, with a focus on horror elements and a grittier aesthetic. The directors used practical effects as much as possible to create the Aliens and Predator creatures, with CGI used to enhance the effects rather than replace them.

Reception

Upon release, AVP:R received generally negative reviews from critics, who criticized its dark lighting, thin plot, and character development, though some praised its action sequences and special effects. The film, however, has garnered a cult following, with fans appreciating its straightforward approach to the Alien vs. Predator mythology.

Legacy

Despite its critical reception, Aliens vs. Predator: Requiem has contributed to the ongoing popularity of the Alien and Predator franchises. It sparked discussions about the potential for further crossover films, though no direct sequel has been produced. The film remains a notable entry in both franchises for its attempt to blend the horror and action elements of the respective series.