Disney’s Ideal Response to the Monsterverse: A Unique Take Unlike Godzilla vs. Kong

Disney possesses a formidable franchise that could potentially rival the titanic monster-movie crossovers that are characteristic of Legendary Pictures’ Monsterverse. Originating as a reboot of the Godzilla series in 2014, the Monsterverse has expanded to include a suite of successful sequels and spin-offs featuring classic characters such as Kong, Rodan, and King Ghidorah. Alongside The Conjuring Universe, it stands as one of the top-grossing cinematic universes outside of the Marvel brand.

Over the past decade, the Monsterverse has led the charge in the monster movie genre, drawing significant audience interest. Fans eagerly flock to theaters to witness epic battles or alliances between Godzilla and Kong, solidifying the Monsterverse’s status as a dominant force. However, Disney is poised to shake up this dominance with two iconic assets—the Alien and Predator franchises—and it has signaled intent to develop a crossover project.

Alien vs. Predator: A Compelling Rival to Godzilla x Kong

Alien & Predator: Icons of Cinema to Rival Godzilla & Kong

Since acquiring 21st Century Fox, Disney has gained control over both the Alien and Predator franchises. The studio has effectively revitalized these properties independently, notably with Predator’s 2022 Hulu release, Prey, which garnered critical acclaim, and the recent success of Alien: Romulus, deemed a major box office and critical triumph—highlighted as the best installment since the classic Aliens. However, Disney has yet to unite these two legendary franchises on screen; their last shared feature was the lackluster Aliens vs. Predator: Requiem from 2007.

Upcoming, Predator: Badlands is scheduled for release on November 7, 2025.

In the realm of cinematic monsters, the iconic figures of Alien and Predator significantly rival the cultural stature of Godzilla, Kong, and the classic Universal Monsters—such as Dracula and Frankenstein’s monster. To challenge Legendary’s Monsterverse, Disney’s best strategic maneuver might be to initiate a new Alien vs. Predator movie. With their track record of producing exceptional films in these franchises, they could surprise audiences by creating a thrilling crossover that fans have long anticipated.

A Fresh Take on Alien vs. Predator

Studio Leadership Promises a Reimagined AvP Experience

An Alien and Predator engage in battle in AvP: Requiem.

Disney is actively considering the production of a new Alien vs. Predator movie. In a recent interview, Steve Asbell, president of 20th Century Studios, provided exciting insights for fans of both franchises. He announced the development of a sequel to Alien: Romulus, continuing the story of its main characters, Rain and Andy. Furthermore, he hinted at a “secret”Predator film that is currently completed and ready for release. Most notably, discussions are unfolding regarding the return of the Alien vs. Predator crossover, which sparks considerable anticipation.

Asbell’s remarks about a potential new installment in the Alien vs. Predator saga bring forth significant hope. He emphasized that this would not simply replicate the original films but would be “organically created”from the existing narrative threads of both franchises. Rather than being standalone stories with little emotional investment, future projects could weave into the elaborate canon established in both series. The prospect of a new Alien vs. Predator featuring talents like Cailee Spaeny and Amber Midthunder is indeed thrilling compared to a mere repeat of Requiem.

Distinctive Themes: Alien vs. Predator vs. Godzilla vs. Kong

GvK: Action-Packed Spectacle; AvP: A Horror Experience

The fierce confrontations and alliances between Godzilla and Kong are undeniably entertaining, filled with action and large-scale spectacle. Yet, they often lack suspense-driven elements. In contrast, a new Alien vs. Predator film would inherently uphold thriller traditions, focusing on horror-intended storytelling to evoke fear through jump scares and disturbing visuals.

Unlike the Monsterverse, which primarily caters to a PG-13 audience, a forthcoming Alien vs. Predator feature would aptly align with an R rating. The earlier attempt at an Alien vs. Predator crossover was constrained by a PG-13 rating, detracting from the desired intensity. Disney’s recent entries—Prey and Alien: Romulus—illustrate the studio’s willingness to embrace mature themes and violence. In doing so, Alien vs. Predator could potentially present a more visceral experience, overshadowing the comparatively lighthearted nature of Godzilla vs. Kong.

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