Alien Dawn Obscura (2025)


REVIEWER RATING: 
7/10

DIRECTOR:

CAST:


Obscura, derived from the Latin term “obscurus” has fascinated philosophers, writers, and artists for centuries. At its core, obscura means “dark”, but its meaning goes far beyond these simple definitions. It encompasses a concept that is mysterious, hidden, or difficult to comprehend.

Thereby, picture the offspring of snake-headed Medusa and extraterrestrial monster, Predator if they fornicated in a desolate desert and left a female abomination to wreak havoc on all humans who dare to step into her dwelling. Actually, don’t picture this scenario…I’m already feeling queasy after encountering this bloodthirsty, grotesque and repulsive creature.

While a secret CIA team is training in isolated sand dunes to target practice (and goof off a bit with a hacky sack), they soon spot an incoming band of brothers known as the Red Dragons gang who are searching for their “prospect” (comparable to a fraternal pledge during initiation.) This biker clan is already at odds with each other both playfully and violently as the settled “Kraken” military squad approaches with guns out and ready to strike.

With both crews set up to brawl, they are suddenly thrusted into a new category of horror as a fellow member of the Dragons’ stumbles into their rumble, with black gunk spewing out of his mouth. As he writhers around in pain, the chaotic site changes into a quick survival mission upon realizing they need to work together in order to defeat this unknown alien entity.

Through consistently solid performances from Robert LaSardo (as the Red Dragons’ wild-eyed leader), Aubrey Trujillo (the strong token female soldier) and Jerry Angelo (a considerate military medic), the entire cast and special effects artists prove their talent on and offscreen during the 89 relentless minutes of non-stop combat.

Alien Dawn Obscura is fast paced, terrifying and brutal. Unfortunately, there are several similarities to the 1979 hit Alien which can not be overlooked: egg pods; acid saliva and body abductions embedded into the “nest”. Obscura can still hold its own, but it’s no match for the birthplace of Ripley’s space aged monster.

OVERALL: 
True story – the premise pitch of the original Alien was delivered as “Jaws in Space.” Considering that, I can imagine Alien Dawn Obscura positioned as “Jaws in Sand: Land Shark.” Heightened moments of discovery through both the introduction and various flashbacks of troops led by a scientist once again reinforces the player vs pawn game often headed by government secret operations. Was everything a set up? We may get answers at some point, but for right now…I accept this “borrowed” storyline which was modernized for adventurous horror-action fans. My last 2 cents for what it’s worth: drop the “Alien Dawn” and go with Obscura. Just like the definition…it’s dark and unknown, which is the main draw to this film. It’s always the unknown that scares us.


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