Exploring the Darkness of Alien Vs. Predator: Requiem

The 2007 film Alien vs. Predator: Requiem faced numerous challenges, but perhaps the most peculiar issue was its lack of adequate lighting. While the Alien and Predator franchises have their dedicated fan bases and each installment offers notable moments despite their shortcomings, the Alien vs. Predator films struggle to find defenders. In comparison, lesser-known entries like 2018’s The Predator and 1990’s Alien 3 boast redeemable elements, making it difficult to ascertain the value of the Alien vs. Predator series.

Notoriously, the initial crossover film from 2004 compromised the raw, intense vibe of both franchises with its inexplicable PG-13 rating. Directed by Paul W.S. Anderson, known for Event Horizon, the film showcased a convincingly atmospheric setting and effects that have aged better than many of its contemporaries. However, the film’s overly sanitized rating prevented it from truly integrating into either franchise’s established R-rated legacy. In response, Alien vs. Predator: Requiem promised a return to darker, more visceral storytelling with its robust R-rating. Regrettably, despite its more graphic violence, the sequel could not overcome its fundamental flaws.

The Dark Visual Style of Alien vs. Predator: Requiem

Budget Constraints and Creative Choices in the Sequel

From the outset, it was evident that Alien vs. Predator: Requiem aimed to avoid the pitfalls of its predecessor. The film opens with a shocking scene where a father and son fall victim to Facehuggers while out hunting, setting a brutal tone. However, this moment was an anomaly in a film plagued by excessively dark visuals. The attempts to create a pervasive sense of dread by frequently obscuring the characters and the action backfired, resulting in an experience that left audiences struggling to follow critical sequences throughout the film. This decision to maintain darkness was not a random choice but a calculated one.

In an interview with Collider, co-writer Steven Weintraub revealed insights from the Strause Brothers, stating, “While I don’t have their exact words, they (the Strause Brothers) told us that you can’t show the Aliens in too much light or you’ll know it’s someone in a costume. That’s why all the battles in this film will be in dark places with limited light.” This rationale may appear logical in theory; however, the execution led to a film that ultimately devolved into an unwatchable visual mess.

Lighting Issues and Their Impact on the Narrative

The Compounding Problems of Darkness in Alien vs Predator: Requiem

As the Strause Brothers embarked on their directorial debut, their ambition to obscure the film’s creatures resulted in an oversaturation of darkness throughout. This approach detracted from the intended impact of the sequel’s more violent scenes. The frequent obscurity left viewers unable to fully engage with the emotions of the numerous character fatalities. Consequently, this film swiftly garnered a reputation as one of the poorest contributions to the entire Alien and Predator universes.

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