the Science (or Lack Thereof) in Science Fiction

Fede Alvarez‘s Alien: Romulus, the seventh installment in the iconic horror saga, debuted on Disney+ on May 16, 2025, reigniting a debate that first surfaced during its theatrical release: the film’s adherence to scientific principles, specifically concerning zero gravity. While the film delivers intense suspense and visually striking moments, a particular scene has drawn scrutiny from physics enthusiasts.

Zero Gravity Bloodbath: A Cinematic Choice or a Scientific Blunder?

In a desperate attempt to neutralize the Xenomorph threat and prevent their corrosive acid blood from damaging the spacecraft, the character Rain proposes disabling the ship’s artificial gravity. This ingenious maneuver, lauded by many as one of the film’s most memorable sequences, didn’t sit well with some viewers. Online forums, particularly Reddit, buzzed with discussions among physicists pointing out the scene’s inaccuracies.

The scene depicts the Xenomorph’s blood exploding into filaments and forming concentric circles. However, in actual zero-gravity conditions, liquids behave differently. Due to the force of cohesion, liquids tend to coalesce into spheres, as demonstrated in numerous scientific demonstrations. For example, astronauts aboard the International Space Station (ISS) have repeatedly shown how water forms floating spheres in the absence of gravity.

Furthermore, the principle of adhesion dictates that liquids in contact with a surface will adhere and spread, nonetheless of direction. In the absence of gravity, any projectile maintains its trajectory. Therefore, the xenomorph blood should have continued in a straight line until impacting the walls of the space station, adhering upon contact. Once artificial gravity was restored, the blood should have fallen directly downwards, possibly causing corrosive damage.

The director’s Dilemma: Spectacle vs. Scientific Accuracy

This raises a basic question for science fiction filmmakers: prioritize scientific rigor or create visually compelling scenes that serve the narrative? While Alien: Romulus doesn’t entirely disregard physics, Fede Alvarez opted for a more cinematic representation, potentially sacrificing realism for clarity and heightened suspense. This compromise is common in genre cinema, where atmosphere and suspense often outweigh strict scientific adherence.

The behavior of the liquid in an surroundings with and without gravity is therefore not scientifically respected.

Consider the challenges of depicting space battles realistically. Sound cannot travel in the vacuum of space, yet silent explosions would lack the dramatic impact audiences expect. Similarly, the vibrant colors often seen in nebulae images are often enhanced for visual appeal, differing from what the naked eye would perceive.

Finding the Balance: The Future of Sci-Fi Realism

The debate surrounding Alien: Romulus highlights the ongoing tension between scientific accuracy and cinematic license. While some viewers prioritize realism, others value the immersive experience and emotional impact of a well-crafted story. Ultimately, the success of a science fiction film often hinges on its ability to strike a balance between these competing demands, creating a believable and engaging world, even if it deviates from strict scientific principles.