Alienoid: Return to the Future

Alienoid: Return to the Future (2024) is the second chapter in director Choi Dong-hoon’s ambitious sci-fi fantasy saga that blends historical drama with time-traveling aliens. The film continues the story of Taoist warrior Mureuk, played by Ryu Jun-yeol, and Lee Ahn, portrayed by Kim Tae-ri, as they work to stop a powerful alien entity from detonating a destructive force known as "haava." Their quest leads them across centuries—from the Goryeo dynasty to the present—bringing together sorcery, martial arts, and futuristic weaponry. The film expands the universe of the first Alienoid by diving deeper into the lore of the Divine Sword and the nature of alien imprisonment, all while ramping up the action and emotional stakes. Released in early 2024, the film was shot back-to-back with the original and features the same high production values, combining practical effects with elaborate CGI sequences. While it was well-received for its creativity and visuals, some critics found the plot more convoluted than its predecessor. Still, fans appreciated the sequel’s kinetic energy and its ability to tie together the sprawling storylines introduced in the first film. It performed solidly at the Korean box office and saw modest returns internationally. As a conclusion to the two-part saga, Alienoid: Return to the Future stands as a bold and unique entry in the realm of Korean genre cinema, pushing boundaries with its fusion of sci-fi spectacle and historical mysticism.