‘Alien: Romulus’ to Premiere at Edinburgh’s Midnight Madness

The Edinburgh International Film Festival (EIFF) has announced a thrilling addition to its 2024 line-up, revealing that the UK premiere of Fede Alvarez’s Alien: Romulus will kick off the Festival’s new Midnight Madness strand. This highly anticipated film, produced by Ridley Scott, will make its debut on August 15 and is set to hit UK and Ireland cinemas the following day, August 16.

Alien: Romulus, directed and written by Alvarez, renowned for his work on Don’t Breathe and Evil Dead, promises to be a terrifying return to the roots of the iconic Alien franchise. The film follows a group of young space colonisers who encounter the most horrifying life form in the universe while scavenging a derelict space station. The cast includes Cailee Spaeny (Priscilla), David Jonsson (Rye Lane), and Spike Fern (Aftersun), ensuring a powerhouse of performances.

The announcement is part of the EIFF’s relaunch, introducing the Midnight Madness strand which will feature late-night screenings of some of the most exhilarating and spine-chilling films. The closing night of Midnight Madness will feature Coralie Fargeat’s dark body horror The Substance on August 20. Additionally, a special preview screening of Chris Nash’s arthouse slasher In A Violent Nature will be held on July 11 at the Cameo Cinema.

Paul Ridd, EIFF Director, expressed his excitement: “We are absolutely ecstatic to be the UK premiere host for this viciously entertaining new vision for the Alien franchise from one of the most exciting horror filmmakers currently working. Fede Alvarez brings a sense of tradition and legacy, as well as gory originality and swagger to the table, and we can think of no better way to open our Midnight Madness programme than with this showstopping new film. Plus knowing that Ridley Scott’s seminal original Alien also played a midnight UK premiere at the Festival back in 1979 is the icing on a spectacular, albeit very gnarly, cake. Bring it on.”

The full programme for the 77th edition of EIFF will be unveiled on Wednesday, July 10 at 5pm, with tickets available from Thursday, July 11 at 12 noon. EIFF 2024 promises a rich blend of local and international cinema, spotlighting the finest filmmaking talent. The festival, running from August 15 to August 21, will be hosted at unique venues across Edinburgh, including Summerhall and the historic Cameo cinema, ensuring an immersive experience for all attendees.

Helmed by Festival Director Paul Ridd and Festival Producer Emma Boa, the EIFF team aims to continue its legacy as a world-class showcase for independent film. Supported by an expanding Board and Screen Scotland, the Festival promises to be a significant highlight in the cultural calendar.

For more information on the programme and to purchase tickets, visit the official EIFF website at www.edfilmfest.org.

Alien: Romulus trailer