Ridley Scott’s Raised by Wolves: The Spiritual Successor to Prometheus & Alien: Covenant

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Ridley Scott, known for his iconic science fiction films like Alien and his interest in themes of human origins and artificial intelligence, created an 18-episode sci-fi series that continues the story begun in his Prometheus films. This series is considered one of the best shows on HBO, showcasing Scott’s talent as a producer, director, and writer.

It’s been a while since we last saw a new Alien movie – Alien: Covenant came out way back in 2017, and honestly, news about the next installment has been pretty quiet. While I’m still holding out hope for what the future holds for the franchise, I’ve found some comfort in HBO’s Raised by Wolves. It really feels like a spiritual successor to Alien: Covenant, capturing a similar vibe and themes, which is definitely scratching that itch until we get another proper Alien film.

Ridley Scott Continued Prometheus & Alien: Covenant’s Themes & Style In Raised By Wolves

Ridley Scott consistently blends thought-provoking ideas with realistic science fiction, and his HBO series, Raised by Wolves, is a prime example. Although he only directed the first two episodes and then served as an executive producer, Scott’s unique style and influence are evident throughout the entire show.

The HBO sci-fi series Raised by Wolves shares many ideas with the recent Alien movies, Alien: Covenant and Prometheus. Because of this, it often feels like a continuation of Alien: Covenant rather than its own separate story. Like those films, Raised by Wolves explores the idea of creation, and both focus on characters grappling with their origins and purpose, much like the character David in the Alien films.

Like many stories, Raised by Wolves explores how things are created, but with a unique twist. The androids, Mother and Father, begin as simple machines programmed to raise human children. However, as they fulfill their mission, they develop into caring parents.

The writer and director truly excels when exploring religious themes in their work. For example, both Prometheus and Alien: Covenant are firmly rooted in science fiction, yet they also powerfully depict Elizabeth Shaw’s internal struggle to balance her beliefs with scientific discovery. Similarly, the core tension in Raised by Wolves stems from the conflict between a religious order, the Mithraic, and atheists who blame religion for Earth’s downfall.

What makes Scott’s work – both his films and the HBO series – so compelling is its ambiguity. He doesn’t offer simple answers to the questions he raises. And even when explanations are provided, they’re often complex and don’t necessarily feel fully resolved or satisfying.

Raised By Wolves Is A Vastly Overlooked Sci-Fi Series

Despite its unique and thought-provoking concept – a show that breaks the mold of typical science fiction – Raised by Wolves hasn’t achieved widespread popularity on HBO. The series tackles huge themes like what it means to be human, how we’re created, and the nature of faith, but it doesn’t offer simple solutions.

The show’s thought-provoking questions encourage viewers to think deeply, which adds to its appeal. The evolving alien characters and the stark, desolate setting make it especially captivating to watch. Unfortunately, HBO canceled Raised by Wolves after just two seasons, and it’s become difficult to find anywhere to stream.

Will We Ever Get Ridley Scott’s Third Prometheus Movie?

Ridley Scott originally envisioned a three-film series, starting with Prometheus and Alien: Covenant, and continuing with a follow-up to a second Prometheus movie. However, things didn’t go as planned. While the Alien movies have a dedicated fanbase and are considered classics, Alien: Covenant wasn’t a financial success in theaters.

Prometheus Movies
Title Worldwide Box Office Gross
Prometheus (2012) $403,354,469
Alien: Covenant (2017) $240,892,187

Scott wants to make another film in the Alien series, but discussions haven’t progressed yet. While the Alien movies are fan favorites, they’re expensive to produce, and studios need to be sure a film will make its money back before they invest in it.

Good news for fans: Scott is directing a new Alien movie! While it won’t be a direct sequel to Prometheus as some hoped, it will allow the director to resolve any unanswered questions from his earlier work in the Alien series.

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2026-04-01 21:09