The ‘Aliens’ franchise has a new patriarch at the helm

“District 9’s” Neill Blomkamp is set to be the next director of the sci-fi horror saga

Joseph Kelley, A&E Editor

Fans of the “Alien” franchise know that first two films of the series are some of the best pieces of science fiction and horror. The franchise was also a key step in establishing strong female protagonists in the form of Ellen Ripley played by Sigourney Weaver.

However, the franchise has also had its fair share of negatives as “Aliens 3” and “Resurrection” were installments that derailed the series from greatness.

Now Blomkamp, the director behind “District 9,” “Elysium,” and his upcoming flick “Chappie” has been officially confirmed as the new director for the franchise. The filmmaker confirmed the news with a post on Instagram saying, “Um… So I think it’s officially my next film. #alien.”

Having created and posted numerous pieces of concept art for his version of the franchise, Blomkamp excited fans that were hoping he would make the next “Aliens” film. With all the exciting media buzz in February, Blomkamp being chosen as the new director for the “Aliens” franchise is simply the icing on the cake.

Although, it does seem out of place for the director to jump onboard the major studio franchise considering Blomkamp’s past altercation with 20th Century Fox. After Blomkamp first bursted onto the Hollywood scene, he was set to direct a $125 million adaptation of “Halo” with Peter Jackson set to produce, but the project fell apart during post-production due to Blomkamp and 20th Century Fox having artistic differences.

Ever since, Blomkamp turned down helming big-budgeted franchises, choosing to establish his own take on science fiction. There is no confirmation as to whether or not, Weaver will reprise her iconic “Ripley” role, but hopes are high that she will, considering her involvement in the sci-fi genre nowadays.

Regardless, there is no one better suited for the task to take the “Alien” franchise to the next level for the modern generation than Blomkamp.