In the world of sci‑fi horror, anticipation is building around the ninth entry in the iconic Alien saga. Reports confirm that principal photography is slated to begin in Budapest, Hungary, with cameras rolling as March arrives. This location choice nods to a long-standing habit of the franchise to shoot in European studios that offer sprawling backlots and a climate conducive to tight production schedules. The move marks a notable shift in the preproduction timeline for fans eager to see how the series expands its chilling universe.
The project remains firmly anchored with the original film’s producers overseeing the production, ensuring continuity in tone and visual atmosphere that fans expect from this franchise. While the exact start date had fluctuated, the decision by the production team to press ahead reflects a calculated push to meet a planned international release window. The Budapest shoot is said to leverage both local crews and international talent to achieve a blend of practical effects and modern cinematography that characterizes this chapter of the series.
Screenwriter and director involvement centers on Federico Alvarez, known for his work on Don’t Breathe, who brings a brisk, tense sensibility to the Alien universe. The casting choices highlight a blend of established talent and rising stars, with Caylee Spaeny, recognized for her compelling performances in recent projects, set to take a leading role. The choice of Spaeny signals a focus on a strong central character whose perspective drives the story, a hallmark of recent entries that aim to balance claustrophobic suspense with character-driven moments.
As production progresses, the team has opted to keep several plot elements under wraps. Details about the narrative arc, the extent of the ensemble, and the film’s premiere date remain closely guarded. This strategy aligns with the franchise’s tradition of withholding specifics to preserve suspense, while still offering glimpses through on-set reports and official imagery. Industry watchers expect a production timeline that aligns with a broad international rollout, positioning the film for a substantial presence in markets across North America and beyond.
Earlier speculation linked Isabela Merced, the performer known for a string of high-profile family-friendly and action titles, to a role within the new Alien installment. If confirmed, the casting would continue the series’ pattern of bringing dynamic young performers into its flagship sci‑fi horror framework, pairing fresh talent with seasoned franchise collaborators to sustain momentum and broaden its audience reach in 2024 and the years that follow.