How to Watch Alien in Order
To watch Aliens, start with Alien.
Watch Alien in release order for a first viewing — start with Alien (1979). There are 4 films, released between 1979–1997. That is 8 hours of viewing. Only 2 are essential to follow the story — 4.2 hours.
The full checklist
0 of 4 watched- 1Alien1979Essential117m
- 2Aliens1986Essential137m
- 3Alien³1992114m
- 4Alien Resurrection1997109m
Ranked by rating
Full ranking with scores →- 1Alien19798.2
- 2Aliens19868.0
- 3Alien³19926.4
- 4Alien Resurrection19976.2
Frequently asked questions
What is the correct order to watch Alien?
For a first viewing, watch Alien in release order, starting with Alien (1979) and ending with Alien Resurrection (1997). That is the order the story was written to be discovered in.
How many Alien films are there?
There are 4 Alien films.
Can I skip any Alien films?
2 of the 4 films carry the main story: Alien, Aliens. The other 2 can be skipped on a first watch without losing the plot.
Where should a first-time viewer start with Alien?
Start with Alien, released in 1979. It introduces the characters and setting the later films build on.
How long does it take to watch all of Alien?
Watching every Alien film takes 8 hours. Sticking to the 2 essential films takes 4.2 hours.