5 Ways ‘Alien: Covenant’ Aged Poorly (And 5 Ways It Aged Masterfully)

Some parts of Alien: Covenant still hit hard today. Others feel weaker with time. This list looks at both sides in equal measure.

We focus on what lasts. We also point out what now seems clunky or out of step with the series.

The Engineer Lore Retcon — Aged Poorly

The film shifts the mystery of the Engineers into the background. Their big questions fade fast.
This move makes the universe feel smaller. It also leaves threads from earlier stories hanging.

David’s Creation Myth and Dual Role — Aged Masterfully

David’s plan to shape life gives the story a sharp spine. His cold curiosity is clear and scary.
The twin dynamic with Walter adds tension. It also deepens the theme of maker versus made.

The Crew’s Risk Protocols and Containment Choices — Aged Poorly

The colony team often ignores basic safety steps. They walk into danger with little prep.
Today, that reads as forced. It breaks immersion when trained people act like rookies.

Creature Design: Neomorphs and Xenomorphs — Aged Masterfully

The Neomorphs feel fresh and unsettling. Their movements look strange and animal-like.
The classic creature still looks fierce. Close-up textures and slime hold up well.

Reliance on Prologues and Deleted Scenes — Aged Poorly

Key setup sits outside the main film in shorts and extras. New viewers miss context.
This weakens the plot on its own. The movie should carry its weight without homework.

Visual Effects and Practical Gore — Aged Masterfully

The mix of digital shots and prosthetics still looks strong. Bursts of body horror feel real.
Blood, spores, and growth stages are clear and readable. The details sell the shocks.

Daniels’ Arc Getting Sidelined — Aged Poorly

Daniels is set up as a steady lead. But the story gives her less room than expected.
Her goals and grief get crowded out by the android focus. The human side loses punch.

Big Ideas on Creation and Colonial Ambition — Aged Masterfully

The film links exploration with control. It asks who has the right to seed new worlds.
These themes feel timely. They give weight to the monster scenes.

Franchise Roadmap and Canon Confusion — Aged Poorly

The film hints at a bridge to earlier entries, then muddies it. Fans still debate links.
This unclear path hurt trust. It made the series feel unsure of its next step.

Production Design and World-Building Detail — Aged Masterfully

The colony ship, gear, and habitats look practical. Tools and spaces feel used and lived in.
Tech readouts, helmets, and landers add quiet realism. Small touches make the world believable.

Share your take: which parts of Alien: Covenant feel timeless to you, and which parts feel dated—tell us in the comments!