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# Alien movies in order and where to watch each one
- URL: https://tumput.com/alien-movies-order-where-watch/
- Published: 2026-10-31T03:27:03.000Z
- Updated: 2026-10-31T03:27:03.000Z
- Author: Selim Mia
- Tags: Culture

If you want to watch the Alien movies in the best order and know where to stream or buy each film, this guide will help. It explains the two main viewing orders—release order and chronological story order—and lists where you can watch or purchase every movie in the franchise. You'll also get context on each film, so you can decide which to watch first and tips on collections or bundles to save money.

## What is the correct order to watch Alien movies?

You can watch the Alien franchise in two main ways: release order or chronological story order. Release order is the sequence the movies were originally released in theaters, starting with Alien (1979), followed by its sequels and prequels in the order they came out. This preserves the experience as audiences had it, including plot surprises.

Chronological story order arranges the films by the timeline within the Alien universe. It starts with Prometheus (2012), which is a prequel exploring the origins of the alien species, then Alien: Covenant (2017), before moving into the original series beginning with Alien (1979) and its sequels. This order gives a linear narrative flow but may spoil some mysteries revealed later in the original release sequence.

Both orders are valid. Choose release order if you want to experience the story as it unfolded. Choose chronological if you prefer a timeline-based approach to the story.

## Which Alien movies are part of the main series and which are spin-offs?

The main Alien series includes:

1. Alien (1979)
2. Aliens (1986)
3. Alien 3 (1992)
4. Alien: Resurrection (1997)

These films follow the story of the crew encountering the Xenomorph species and its consequences.

The prequel subseries includes:

- Prometheus (2012)
- Alien: Covenant (2017)

These explore the origins of the alien species and expand the franchise’s mythology but differ in tone and focus from the main series.

Spin-offs are the Alien vs. Predator crossover films:

- Alien vs. Predator (2004)
- Aliens vs. Predator: Requiem (2007)

They merge the Alien and Predator universes but are generally considered separate from the main Alien storyline and are optional viewing.

## Where can I watch each Alien movie right now?

Availability can vary by country and change over time. Currently:

- Alien (1979): Streaming on Hulu; available to rent or buy on Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, and Google Play.
- Aliens (1986): Streaming on Hulu; rental and purchase on Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, and Google Play.
- Alien 3 (1992): Usually available to rent or buy on Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, and Google Play; streaming is less common.
- Alien: Resurrection (1997): Available for rental and purchase on major platforms; not on major subscription services.
- Prometheus (2012): Streaming on Disney+ in some regions; rental and purchase on Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, and Google Play.
- Alien: Covenant (2017): Streaming on Disney+ (region-dependent); rental and purchase on Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, and Google Play.
- Alien vs. Predator (2004) and Aliens vs. Predator: Requiem (2007): Available to rent or buy on major platforms; streaming is less common.

If streaming is unavailable, renting or purchasing digitally is a reliable way to access these films. Check your local services as availability frequently changes.

## Should I watch the movies in release order or chronological order?

Your choice depends on how you want to experience the story. Watching in release order preserves the original storytelling, suspense, and reveals as audiences first saw them. It also shows how the series evolved in style and tone over time.

Watching in chronological order starts with the prequels Prometheus and Alien: Covenant, offering background on the alien species and the universe’s origins. This can clarify the timeline but may reduce the impact of surprises that the original release order maintained.

For new viewers, release order is generally recommended. For those revisiting the series or wanting a linear timeline, chronological order works well.

## Are there Alien movie collections or bundles available?

Yes, several official collections bundle multiple Alien films, making it easier and often cheaper to get them all.

The "Alien Anthology" box set on Blu-ray or DVD includes the original four films (Alien through Alien: Resurrection) and sometimes bonus content.

Digital stores like Amazon and iTunes sometimes offer bundle deals covering the main series and occasionally the prequels.

Some streaming services group the movies together in their libraries for easier browsing, but this varies by platform.

If you prefer physical copies or want all films in one purchase, these collections provide better video quality and extras compared to buying individually.

![An open boxed set of Alien movies on DVD showing the individual cases inside.](https://tse1.mm.bing.net/th?q=boxed%20set%20of%20Alien%20movies%20on%20DVD%20with%20case%20open&w=624&h=352&c=7)

## What should I know before diving into the Alien franchise?

The Alien movies blend science fiction with horror and action.

The original Alien (1979) is a suspenseful thriller focused on tension and survival. Its sequel, Aliens (1986), leans more into military-style action while keeping the horror elements.

Alien 3 is darker and bleaker, while Alien: Resurrection has a more experimental tone.

The prequels Prometheus and Alien: Covenant explore philosophical themes about creation and evolution, with a more cerebral style.

Expect graphic imagery, intense suspense, and generally serious tones throughout the series. The franchise is known for its strong female lead, Ellen Ripley.

If you want straightforward sci-fi action, Aliens is a highlight. The original Alien is key for horror fans. The prequels provide backstory but differ in style and focus.

## Conclusion

With the viewing orders and availability details here, you can choose how to watch the Alien franchise—whether in the original release order for the full experience or chronological order for a timeline view. Check your preferred streaming services or digital stores for the best access. Consider collections if you want multiple films together. The series offers a mix of suspense, action, and complex sci-fi themes, promising an engaging watch.

## Frequently Asked Questions

### Can I watch the Alien movies without seeing the Alien vs. Predator films?

Yes. The Alien vs. Predator movies are spin-offs and not needed to understand the main Alien storyline. You can enjoy the core series without watching them.

### Are the prequel movies Prometheus and Alien: Covenant necessary to understand the main Alien films?

They provide background on the alien origins and add depth to the universe but aren’t required to follow the stories of the original Alien movies.

### Which streaming platform currently has the most Alien movies available?

Availability changes by region, but Hulu and Disney+ often have multiple Alien films. Rental and purchase options are more consistently available on Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, and Google Play.