MLB Opening Day WWDC 2023 Dates Meta Quest Pro Hands-On Amazon Pharmacy Coupons iOS 16.4 Trick for Better Sound Narcan Nasal Spray 7 Foods for Better Sleep VR Is Revolutionizing Therapy
Want CNET to notify you of price drops and the latest stories?
No, thank you
Accept

Why the alien isn't the only scary thing in 'Alien: Covenant'

Michael Fassbender, Katherine Waterston and the stars of the new movie share their fears of androids, AI and technology.

alien-covenant-1-hero.jpg
Now playing: Watch this: 'Alien: Covenant' predicts a future packed with nightmare...
1:54

The alien is one of the scariest creations in cinema history. But it's not the only thing to be scared of in our future.

When they're not dealing with the infamous movie monster, the heroes of new movie "Alien: Covenant" have their hands full with an enigmatic android and a malfunctioning spaceship. Technology may have helped them get into space, but it's also caused new problems -- and that's something that reflects our concerns about science and technology in the real world.

Actor Michael Fassbender sees both sides of the coin in "Covenant", playing a dual role as a pair of artificial intelligence androids with differing ideas about helping or hindering humanity. Katherine Waterston certainly sees potential for technology such as AI to go either way.

Billy Crudup, Danny McBride and Demián Bichir also have their own concerns about the future, although Crudup doesn't think AI is the most pressing concern facing the human race.

Director Ridley Scott has his own ambivalent feelings about technology, a preoccupation that's informed his work since "Blade Runner" and the original "Alien" more than thirty years ago.

Now playing: Watch this: How 'Alien: Covenant' was inspired by Ridley Scott's...
1:38

"Alien: Covenant" is in cinemas in the UK now and will open in US theatres from 19 May. Here's our thoughts on whether you need to see "Prometheus" first.

Tech Culture: From film and television to social media and games, here's your place for the lighter side of tech.

Star Wars at 40: Join us in celebrating the many ways the sci-fi saga has impacted our lives.