"Prometheus" Provides Little Satisfaction as a Pointless Prequel to "Alien"

Rating: 4/10 (8 June 2012)

Walking out of the press screening for "Prometheus" I couldn't help thinking to myself, "This is what I've been waiting almost four years for?" I filled out my questionnaire, gave it to the Fox representative, and walked away telling my fellow movie reviewers goodbye. I stated that I hoped I could have a better day after it started out being ruined by a morning filled with disappointment delivered by Ridley Scott. I could sum up my review of the film in one sentence: Lower your expectations.
"Prometheus" felt tired to me. It was a conglomeration of recycled ideas and nostalgic bits and pieces spread out so "Alien" fanboys and girls could look over at each other and wink while watching it together. Fanatics of the franchise will be "in on" the subtle and not-so subtle references to the original, while others who never saw it won't be "lost." That being said, the only viewers who should be surprised by anything that happens in this movie are those who never experienced "Alien."
"Alien" enthusiasts need to see "Prometheus." Although it's pointless and disappointing in the grand scheme of things, it was mildly interesting to see the events talked about in the original film played out in front of me. Just don't go into it expecting for the film to break new ground or terrify you the way "Alien" did in 1979.