Ep 235: Reviewing “Alien: Covenant” (2017, dir. Ridley Scott) Aliens and Androids with Bryon Kershaw

Midday Movies

In this episode of “Midday Movies,” hosts Laura, Stephen, and special guest Bryon dive into the 2017 film “Alien: Covenant,” the second installment in the 21st-century Alien franchise. Joined by Bryon Kershaw from the “Spirits and Monsters of Old Seattle Podcast”, the discussion ranges from reflections on David the Android's theological journey, the film's rich religious subtext (as embodied by Billy Crudup & Katherine Waterston’s characters), and connections to previous Alien installments.

The podcast explores character dynamics, particularly between David and Walter (both played by Michael Fassbender), as well as the evolution of the Alien series under Ridley Scott's direction. Light spoilers are present, and the team delves deeply into themes of creation, love, and antagonism in the context of the Alien universe.

00:00 Introduction to Midday Movies Podcast

00:16 Introducing Alien Covenant and Special Guest Brian Kershaw

00:43 Initial Reactions and Spoilers Warning

01:47 Discussing the Characters and Plot of Alien Covenant

02:29 David and Walter: The Androids' Journey

04:22 Exploring the Themes of Faith and Creation

09:49 The Crew's Dynamics and Relationships

17:44 David's Descent into Madness24:08 HR Giger's Influence and Fun Facts

26:58 Adorable Baby Xenomorphs and Timeline Changes

27:59 David's Medieval Alchemist Lair

28:28 Engineer Technology and Ancient Scrolls

28:59 Dr. Shaw's Distress Signal and Engineer Tech

30:37 Walter and David's Relationship

30:54 Advanced Human Technology in Alien Covenant

31:57 Colonists' Backstories and Motivations

34:42 David's Perspective on Humans

35:12 Ridley Scott's Exploration of Creation and Mortality

36:25 Studio Influence on Alien Covenant

44:04 David's Cliffhanger Ending

45:43 Final Thoughts and Future Speculations

And look forward to our Alien-themed RPG “Facehuggers and Friends,” featuring members of the Umbrella Podcast Collective (https://www.rainydayrabbitholes.com/umbrella) as players. Releasing in June, in advance of FX’s “Alien: Earth” series (2025).

Follow the Umbrella Podcast Collective on IG at @umbrellapodcastcollective for updates on “Facehuggers and Friends: An Alien RPG.”

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