The main concept of Prometheus is a great idea. Having it as the backstory for such an iconic sci-fi creation as the xenomorph is worthy of the great 1979 and 1986 movies. Arguably, the creature did not require an explanation, but giving it a significant purpose, such as what we learn in this movie, was a sensible approach by the writers.
Plot highlights include the plight and fortitude of the character Elizabeth Shaw, the portrayal of the engineers, how it links to the original movie, and most scenes involving the character David.
Unfortunately, it has too many characters. It would have been more credible without Fifield, Milburn, and Holloway. This would have allowed for more focus on the most interesting individuals, like Shaw and David. Plus, it would have left more screen time for Janek and Vickers to be developed further.
This greatly frustrates in the moments you feel are there for plot convenience, such as when characters introduced as scientists behave irrationally or stupidly. It is almost as if Ridley Scott is trying so much to recapture the blue-collar tone of the original movie, he forgets he is supposed to be portraying a crew of qualified professionals on a trillion-dollar mission of groundbreaking scientific discovery.
As you would expect from Scott, the visuals are fantastic. The design is consistent with Alien, but with the added advantage of 2012 technology. I particularly like the scene involving a character undergoing a surgical procedure. I think this is a classic moment of the franchise on par with the best.
All performances are great, with the standouts being Michael Fassbender, Charlize Theron, and Noomi Rapace.
7.5/10 for me, but I round up.
