Jeff Nichols confirms first draft of 'Alien Nation' is in the works
Don't call Jeff Nichols sixth film a remake or sci-fi.
In a recent interview at Nichols newly launched Arkansas Cinema Society event Premiere, the indie filmmaker confirmed he is in the process of writing the first script for 20th Century Fox's Alien Nation. But don't call it a remake or a sci-fi film.
It was this time last year, the critically acclaimed auteur revealed his next project would be a re-imagining of 1988's original sci-fi crime drama starring James Caan and Mandy Patinkin, set in a future where humans live alongside extraterrestrial humanoid beings called the 'Newcomers.' Despite decades of mixed reviews, Graham Baker's original has stood the test of time for its allegorical depiction on racism, segregation, and racial politics. Nichols has spoken openly that his take on Alien Nation will not be a remake but a prequel of sorts, exploring the time between the aliens arrival on earth and when they merge with society.
Speaking with IndieWire's Anne Thompson at his Premiere event, Nichols not only confirmed he is "smack dab in the middle of the first draft" of Alien Nation but shared his thoughts about writing for a big studio that balances something meaningful and deep but also populist. The key for Alien Nation? Finding your own voice he says:
"I wish the “Alien Nation” genre was more defined: Sci-fi isn’t a genre, it’s a storytelling technique. The original was a detective film. But the way I build narrative is weird and strange and awkward. I’m less interested in that type of genre structure and a hook that brings the audience into the story. Can I keep my method of storytelling that I’m accustomed to? Can I have my cake and eat it too? Or am I even that kind of writer?
In times where humans continue to struggle with race, politics and gender, how can you not prescribe to Nichols creative vision? And perhaps it's premature speculation but can we get Michael Shannon in Alien Nation as well?
No release date has been set for Alien Nation. Stay tuned for more updates as they come.
