Nearly 15 years after it first hit theaters — and sparked endless online debates — Prometheus is back at the top. According to FlixPatrol, Ridley Scott’s divisive sci-fi epic is currently the #1 movie on Netflix globally. Yes, that movie. The one that launched a thousand memes and just as many arguments.
Turns out, curiosity about humanity’s origins — and questionable helmet decisions — never really dies. Prometheus marked Scott’s grand return to the universe he helped create with Alien. But instead of delivering a straightforward Xenomorph horror sequel like we all wanted, Scott pivoted toward big ideas: creation myths, existential dread, and the terrifying arrogance of human curiosity. Like we all didn’t want.
The film follows a team of scientists who discover a star map pointing to humanity’s possible creators — the mysterious Engineers. Their expedition aboard the ship Prometheus quickly spirals into cosmic horror. The cast is quality too: Noomi Rapace as Dr. Elizabeth Shaw, Michael Fassbender as the unnervingly calm android David who enjoys musical fingering (we’re serious, watch the sequel), Charlize Theron, Idris Elba, Logan Marshall-Green, and Guy Pearce. Financially, the film was a success, grossing $403.4 million worldwide against a reported $130 million budget. But reception? That’s where things got complicated.
Is ‘Prometheus’ Worth Watching?
Collider’s review stated that Prometheus is a visually majestic, intellectually ambitious return to the Alien universe that reaches for profound ideas but ultimately stumbles under the weight of its own overreach. The review praised Scott’s craftsmanship, noting the film’s breathtaking production design, immersive atmosphere, and expertly sustained tension. The expanded budget allows H.R. Giger-inspired visuals to flourish, creating an alien world of immense scale and beauty. When Prometheus leans into pure sci-fi horror — echoing Lovecraftian dread more than direct Alien parallels — it becomes gripping and unforgettable.
“Prometheus absolutely deserves credit for even trying to explore these ideas in the first place. Few summer blockbusters give audiences anything to chew on, and Prometheus at least wants to engage your brain as well as your adrenal gland. Scott has painted a world that’s a wonder to behold even if it leaves you wondering about why it wants to be Alien when it comes close to creating a splendid beast all its own.”
Prometheus is streaming now on Netflix.
Release Date
June 8, 2012
Runtime
124 minutes