Enjoyable, well-made summer entertainment...

Rating: 8/10 (20 May 2017)

"Alien: Covenant" doesn't deserve some of the negative reviews I'm seeing on this site. When you're Ridley Scott, it's possible to be a victim of your own success: if you make a film that is not absolutely wonderful and doesn't match "Blade Runner" and "Gladiator," people are disappointed and slag it. That's showbiz.
For context, let me state up front that I'm a big fan of the first two Alien films, and "Prometheus" as well. I liked "Alien: Covenant" and will eventually watch it again on home video. I will leave to others to pass judgment on whether this is a "good" movie. To my taste, which is all I care about, it had good performances, an interesting, credible story, great action sequences, beautiful visuals and satisfying tie- ins to the previous films. I don't require great special effects, but this film rates high in that category, in my humble opinion.
As for themes, deeper meanings and big thoughts: yes, there are some here. But I will stay silent on that, because I didn't fully understand "Prometheus" until I read some reviews. Somebody smarter than I will have to instruct me on that.
Word of caution: you might want to watch "Prometheus" before "Alien: Covenant". This story arc is getting pretty complex.