Prometheus is a 2012 science fiction horror film directed by Ridley Scott and written by Jon Spaihts and Damon Lindelof.
It serves as the fifth installment in the Alien franchise and is considered a quasi-prequel to the original Alien (1979). The film stars Noomi Rapace as Dr. Elizabeth Shaw, Michael Fassbender as the android David, Charlize Theron as Meredith Vickers, Idris Elba as Janek, and Guy Pearce as Peter Weyland.
The plot follows a team of explorers who embark on a deep-space mission to discover the origins of humanity. They travel aboard the spaceship Prometheus to the distant moon LV-223 after discovering a star map in ancient Earth cultures that points to a potential extraterrestrial civilization known as the Engineers. Upon arrival, the crew discovers a mysterious structure and soon realizes they are not alone. As they investigate, they encounter terrifying creatures and face existential threats that challenge their understanding of life and creation.
Prometheus was produced on a budget estimated between $120 million and $130 million and was released on June 8, 2012. The film opened to a strong box office performance, grossing approximately $403.4 million worldwide, making it a financial success. However, it received mixed reviews from critics, with some praising its ambitious themes, visual effects, and performances—particularly that of Fassbender—while others criticized its plot and character development. The film holds a 73% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes, indicating a generally favorable reception.
The film's production involved extensive visual effects, with cinematography by Dariusz Wolski and a score composed by Marc Streitenfeld. Scott aimed to create a visually stunning experience that expanded the mythology of the Alien universe. Despite its mixed critical reception, Prometheus has sparked discussions about its themes of creation, existentialism, and humanity's search for meaning, and it has garnered a dedicated fan base over the years.
In the years following its release, Prometheus has been analyzed for its philosophical implications and its place within the broader Alien franchise. It has also prompted debates regarding its narrative choices and character motivations, leading to varying interpretations among audiences and critics alike. The film's legacy continues to influence discussions about science fiction cinema and the exploration of humanity's origins.