This entry in the franchise, arriving two centuries following Ripley’s demise in the prior movie—Sigourney Weaver is back as a clone—finds her awakening aboard a space station that also functions as an enormous ship. The scientists present are conducting experiments involving xenomorph and human genetics, aiming to engineer what appears to be the ultimate biological weapon. Simultaneously, a group of smugglers arrives at the station, triggering (not unexpectedly) the escape of the aliens from their confinement. Winona Ryder and Ron Perlman portray space pirates, while Dominique Pinon and Michael Wincott take on leadership roles within the station’s structure. Brad Dourif appears as one of the scientists. "Alien Resurrection," released in 1997, is the series' fourth film; it blends aspects of its predecessors with a few original concepts. The varied ensemble cast works well, though I found myself losing interest before the first act concluded. Fortunately, the movie improves significantly thanks to an impressive underwater scene reminiscent of “The Poseidon Adventure” (1972), but with considerably more intensity. While Kim Flowers stands out as Hillard and Gary Dourdan is memorable as Christie, it's clear they’re essentially playing characters destined for a quick demise, like the "red shirts" in Star Trek. For those who have already experienced the first three movies, there isn't a compelling need to watch this one; it carries a familiar feeling. But if you enjoy those films and desire more of the same with a different set of performers, “Alien Resurrection” is competently made considering its nature—capable science fiction horror. Critics haven’t been fair to it. Although it doesn't possess the initial film's sense of mystery or the suspense and profound terror of the second, it has more energy than the comparatively restrained third one. The movie’s length is 1 hour and 48 minutes. GRADE: B-/B

Source on TMDB