Sigourney Weaver Teases New Direction for Alien Franchise with Walter Hill's Script

The Alien franchise has seen various attempts to revive its iconic character, Ellen Ripley, portrayed by Sigourney Weaver. A notable effort was Neill Blomkamp's proposed Alien 5, which aimed to disregard Alien 3 and Alien: Resurrection, bringing back beloved characters like Ripley, Corporal Hicks, and Newt. However, this project was ultimately shelved due to Ridley Scott's focus on his prequel series, which included Alien: Covenant.

Sigourney Weaver Reveals New Alien 5 Story & Ripley Return UpdatesSigourney Weaver Reveals Why Blomkamp’s Alien 5 Died, Gives Update on Walter Hill’s New Alien VSigourney Weaver says Walter Hill’s Alien 5 script is something “very different”

Currently, attention has shifted to a new project titled Alien V, for which Walter Hill, a long-time producer of the franchise, has penned a 50-page treatment. Weaver has expressed her intrigue regarding Hill's script, stating that it offers a "very different" narrative compared to previous installments. During a recent Q&A session at the Cinémathèque Française in Paris, she noted that Hill's writing reflects a society that marginalizes someone who has previously attempted to aid humanity, suggesting a complex exploration of Ripley's character as she navigates a world that has sidelined her.

Sigourney Weaver says Walter Hill’s Alien 5 script is something “very different”

Weaver has historically been hesitant about returning to the franchise, often advocating for Ripley's rest. However, she has recently indicated a shift in her stance, stating, "What Walter has written seems so true to me." She elaborated that the story addresses Ripley's potential incarceration by a society that views her as a problem, despite her past contributions. Weaver described the initial pages of Hill's script as "quite extraordinary" and expressed her willingness to see how the project develops.

Sigourney Weaver says Walter Hill’s Alien 5 script is something “very different”

Reflecting on Blomkamp's canceled Alien 5, Weaver praised the quality of the script, calling it "wonderful." She attributed the project's failure to Scott's possessiveness over the franchise, which ultimately led to Blomkamp stepping back. Weaver's comments highlight the challenges faced in reviving the franchise, particularly when multiple creative visions collide.

Sigourney Weaver Reveals Why Blomkamp’s Alien 5 Died, Gives Update on Walter Hill’s New Alien V

Weaver has confirmed that she has had discussions with Fox, now part of Disney, regarding the potential for her return as Ripley. She emphasized her admiration for Hill, stating, "Walter Hill is a very good friend of mine," and expressed optimism about collaborating with him on the project.

Sigourney Weaver Reveals New Alien 5 Story & Ripley Return Updates

As the Alien franchise continues to evolve, the future of Ripley remains uncertain. With Hill's treatment in development and Weaver's renewed interest, fans are left to speculate about the direction this new narrative might take. The potential for a unique story that diverges from traditional action sequences could mark a significant shift in the franchise's approach, promising a deeper exploration of its central character.

Sigourney Weaver says Walter Hill’s Alien 5 script is something “very different”

• “ But what Walter has written seems so true to me as very much about the society that would incarcerate someone who has tried to help mankind.” — Sigourney Weaver, Actress

Sigourney Weaver Reveals New Alien 5 Story & Ripley Return Updates

• “It was a wonderful script and unfortunately, it was at that point I think that Ridley Scott decided to be very possessive about the series and really drilled down on his prequels.” — Sigourney Weaver, Actress

Sigourney Weaver Reveals Why Blomkamp’s Alien 5 Died, Gives Update on Walter Hill’s New Alien V

• “Maybe, by now, he’s written more about where Ripley might be now.” — Sigourney Weaver, Actress

Sigourney Weaver says Walter Hill’s Alien 5 script is something “very different”

• “Anyway, I think it’s a very strong first 50 pages, and I’m thinking about working with Walter to see what the rest of the story would be.” — Sigourney Weaver, Actress

Sigourney Weaver Reveals New Alien 5 Story & Ripley Return Updates