Review by Jon Donnis
Matthew Loren Oates' 2025 sci-fi adventure, Xeno, is a curious blend of familiar storytelling and fresh emotional stakes. At first glance, it might seem like another entry in the well-trodden alien encounter genre, but what sets it apart is its grounding in human emotion, family tension, and the unpredictable spark of an interspecies friendship.
The story follows Renee, a teenage girl navigating life in the desert with her mother, whose depression weighs heavily on their household, and her mother's cruel boyfriend. One day, Renee stumbles upon a crash-landed alien, a creature both threatening in appearance and unpredictable in behaviour. After freeing it from a trap, she names it Croak and takes on the responsibility of keeping it safe. The bond that forms between them drives the narrative, pushing Renee into morally complex situations as government agents close in and secrets about the creature's origins come to light.
There is a lot to admire in Xeno. Part E.T., part monster movie, part domestic drama, the film balances its tones with skill. At its core, it is a story about empathy, about the courage required to extend compassion to something wholly other. The film carries darker undertones, yet remains accessible as a film for young adults, while still engaging older viewers. Lulu Wilson delivers a performance of real grit and heart, embodying Renee's bravery and vulnerability in equal measure. Croak, designed by the Jim Henson Creature Shop, is a triumph in creature effects, simultaneously terrifying and oddly endearing, which helps the emotional stakes land hard. Watching their friendship unfold is genuinely rewarding, and the moments of levity amidst tension are deftly handled.
Xeno does lean heavily on its influences. Echoes of Starman, The Iron Giant, and E.T. are evident, and for some viewers, the plot will feel familiar. Yet, rather than detracting from the experience, this homage works in its favour, delivering an assured, heartfelt story that embraces its inspirations with affection. The action sequences are satisfying, the humour lands surprisingly well, and the overall pacing, while slightly long at around 100 minutes, allows enough time to develop both human and alien characters with care.
On the flip side, there is no denying the film is unoriginal in concept. Those looking for a revolutionary take on extraterrestrial cinema may be left wanting. Trimming a few minutes might have tightened the narrative, particularly in the slower domestic scenes. But even with these minor flaws, Xeno's emotional resonance and striking visuals make it a compelling watch.
Xeno is a film that charms through its heart rather than novelty. It offers thrills, humour, and genuine tenderness, anchored by strong performances and an unforgettable alien design. Think E.T. if the alien were closer to a Xenomorph in menace but no less capable of forging a deep bond. For what it is, Xeno succeeds admirably, and I walked away feeling entertained, moved, and impressed. On balance, it earns a solid 8 out of 10.
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