Ridley Scott seems unable to win when it comes to the Alien series he originally launched so successfully in 1979. *Prometheus* was considered overly intellectual and weighed down by high expectations, though it wasn’t without its problems and remains a decent science fiction film. Now we have *Alien: Covenant*, which hasn't been universally condemned but has certainly drawn considerable criticism from fans of the Alien franchise. *Alien: Covenant* essentially feels like a copy—there’s no other way to put it—a rehash of what was shown in 1979, and connected to *Prometheus*, continuing the story behind the Xenomorph and its kind. It's clear Scott made this one for the fans, bringing back the chest-bursting goo and space adventurers facing intense pressure, all while filling in some gaps in the backstory. Certainly, it feels uninspired when compared to *Alien* or his other excellent science fiction films like *Blade Runner* and *The Martian*, but those who criticized *Prometheus* for straying from Alien conventions now have what they wanted. Any hope that this would be a fresh masterpiece was likely unrealistic, so it’s best appreciated as a respectful revisiting of familiar ground. Yes, the science is questionable, there are plot holes and average performances, which rightly shouldn't be excused, but it isn't terrible—in fact, it's quite enjoyable and visually impressive. The film begins with a prologue featuring Weyland and David, their conversation centered on creation and the age-old question of origins. Following a brief musical cue from Wagner’s "The Entry Of The Gods Into Valhalla," we are transported to outer space in 2104 aboard the Colonization Vessel Covenant. The crew consists of 15 people, with 2000 colonists and 1140 embryos onboard. Their destination is ORIGAE-6, with an estimated arrival time of 7 years and 4 months. Only Walter the Android (Michael Fassbender) is awake until the rest of the crew is abruptly roused from their hibernation... Disaster strikes immediately, throwing the crew into emotional turmoil. Characters are introduced, revealing just enough about them to get by, before a distress signal is received from Sector 87 on planet number 4, and we head into familiar territory. Things predictably worsen, and the action, bloodshed, and creature feature tropes are all presented for our enjoyment. There are some surprises in store, with Fassbender appearing twice, along with interesting discussions about the merits of humanity and even references to poets Byron and Shelley. The question becomes: who will make it out alive? What does the ending hold? As we receive unsettling answers, accompanied by the full orchestral version of "The Entry Of The Gods Into Valhalla," everything is wrapped up neatly, allowing our heart rates to return to normal. The job is done. This isn't a film that raises the bar or pushes the boundaries of space exploration; it’s simply a solid science fiction thriller meant to be viewed as such. 7/10

Source on TMDB