Alien: Covenant expanded the Alien universe with rich world-building and philosophical depth. As a prequel to the 1979 original, it explored humanity’s origins, creation, and the dangers of artificial intelligence. The film also left Michael Fassbender’s android David on the brink of something terrifying after he hijacked the Covenant and assumed Walter’s identity.

Nearly a decade later, Ridley Scott has revealed that he is still developing a follow-up as an opportunity to examine AI spiraling beyond human control.

Ridley Scott confirmed his return to the Alien franchise in an interview with French outlet AlloCiné. He revealed plans to rewrite the next film, continuing the story from Covenant.

“I like the fact that AI has gone off the rails,” said Scott of where the character is at the end of Covenant. Michael Fassbender’s Walter One, now believing himself to be Ozymandias, will return. Scott aims to explore AI’s chaotic potential.

Scott told AlloCiné that the sequel will address modern AI fears.

“If we go AI, the moment we discover it’s off the rails is too late. It could switch every digital thing off in the world like that. You’d have f****** chaos,” he stated. This theme reflects contemporary anxieties about technology. The director sees the film as a cautionary tale.

Scott has previously developed ideas for a follow-up under the working title Alien: Awakening, with the story placing greater emphasis on androids and artificial intelligence. Those plans never materialized after Disney’s acquisition of 20th Century Fox, but the filmmaker’s latest comments suggest David’s story remains unfinished.

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While Scott is preparing another journey into technological terror, his latest film has already given critics a very different reason to question his creative direction.

Ridley Scott’s The Dog Stars has received mixed to negative ratings from critics. The post-apocalyptic drama, starring Jacob Elordi and Josh Brolin, fails to meet audience expectations. While cinematography earns praise, the script and narrative direction draw criticism. The film holds a 39% Tomatometer score, marking one of the lowest ratings of his career.

Critics describe the story as unfocused and overly familiar within the genre. The Hollywood Reporter notes it lacks psychological complexity, while IndieWire calls it “totally unnecessary.” Jacob Elordi’s performance receives mixed reactions, with some praising his charisma and others finding it bland. Josh Brolin’s role as a curmudgeonly sniper stands out as a highlight.

The film’s optimistic tone contrasts with Scott’s usual gritty style. Collider acknowledges its hopefulness but notes it feels unearned. RogerEbert.com labels it Scott’s “most tedious film.” Despite stunning visuals, the screenplay’s weaknesses undermine the experience. Fans hoped for a return to form after Gladiator II.

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What do you think about Ridley Scott returning to David’s story and exploring the darker possibilities of AI? Let us know in the comments.