Prometheus (2012) - Creation myths, cold steel, and biotech terror
Quick take
Prometheus swaps the haunted freighter of Alien for a pilgrimage to our supposed creators—the Engineers. Noomi Rapace plays Elizabeth Shaw with a mix of faith and grit, while Michael Fassbender’s unnervingly polite android, David, frames the film’s big questions. It’s a sleek, big‑canvas prequel where philosophical dread collides with body horror. Not every mystery pays off, but the ride is worth it.
Where to watch
Note: Availability changes often and varies by country. Use JustWatch to confirm in your region.
Original release
- Premiere: London, May 31, 2012; UK release June 1, 2012; U.S. release June 8, 2012.
- Formats: Theatrical 2D, 3D, and IMAX 3D. Rated R. Runtime ~124 minutes.
The theatrical version is Ridley Scott’s preferred cut.
Deleted scenes & home editions
No official “extended” or “director’s cut.” Scott considers the theatrical version definitive. However, the home releases include a substantial collection of removed and alternate material.
How to see the removed footage
- 2012 Blu‑ray Collector’s Edition / 3D set: Includes ~36–37 minutes of Deleted & Alternate Scenes (with optional commentary) and the exhaustive documentary The Furious Gods: Making Prometheus (~220 minutes). Best for extras completists.
- 2017 4K Ultra HD + Blu‑ray: Top‑tier image with HDR. Keeps the Deleted & Alternate Scenes on the included 1080p disc but omits the dedicated documentary disc from the 2012 set.
- Digital stores (Apple TV, Amazon, etc.): Usually the theatrical cut; bonus features vary by retailer. Check the store page if extras matter.
Representative deleted/alternate scene titles fans discuss: “Arrival of the Engineers,” “The Engineer Speaks,” “Final Battle,” and “Paradise.” They add texture and clarity but were left separate to preserve pacing and ambiguity.
Verdict
Prometheus remains premium sci‑fi horror: big ideas, bigger images, and a lab‑sterile nightmare tone. Watch the theatrical cut first—then dive into the deleted material if you crave answers (or better questions).
