Neil Blomkamp to direct the next Alien film

After weeks of rumor, District 9 director Neil Blomkamp has announced that his next film will be set in the Alien franchise. Blomkamp was reportedly toying with the idea after working with longtime Alien star Sigourney Weaver on his latest project, Chappie. Weaver, who was previously against the idea of another addition to the franchise, changed her mind after talking it over with Blomkamp. “[It]would be very organic and very original, and because of that, it would make me want to do it. If it was someone as talented as Neill, I’d certainly listen.”

It sounds like the bigwigs at 20th Century Fox were listening as well. After Blomkamp took to Twitter and Instagram, it sounds like everything is in motion, announcing that “Um… So I think it’s officially my next film. #alien “ to the joy of nerds everywhere.

The Alien franchise had two great films, with a slew of mediocre sequels and spin-offs. However, if anyone would be able to pull off another worthwhile addition to the series, it would be Neill Blomkamp. His imagination and unique visual style would play well in the Alien universe. He also doesn’t pull his punches, and isn’t afraid of a little body horror, as seen in District 9.

I’m hopeful that the stars align to make this movie fantastic, though I am slightly worried that it will be the first intellectual property developed by someone else that Blomkamp has played with on the big screen. Don’t worry, Nerds, we’ll keep you appraised of the film’s progress as we get more news.