It feels as though the movie thinks it is returning to the darker themes of Alien, opposed to Aliens, but I think it comes across more as a washy action flick and does not really evoke the heights of either of its predecessors.
I love Fincher’s movies, but I think fans giving him a pass like he did not have a part in this is a bit too easy. I think a lot of minds came together and made a meh movie, and an especially bad one in the context of what came before.
People get fixated on the opening story decision, but I think it is dismissive to think that is the only problem here.
That all being said, there is some good. Some new characters are interesting and there are a couple of iconic shots in the flick. Sets are attractive and on occasion distinct.
It never reaches any height though, and that just feels bad.