Prometheus - B+

Rated R, 124 minutes

Scott returns to sci-fi with the exciting, visually stunning "Prometheus"

The engrossing, thrilling new science-fiction film "Prometheus" has been shrouded in secrecy, given that it's supposedly a prequel to the "Alien" series. It's also a visually stunning film that marks the return to sci-fi by original "Alien" and "Blade Runner" director Ridley Scott, and what a welcome return it is. Set in the late 21st century, the story centers on the crew of the spaceship Prometheus as they follow a star map discovered among the remnants of several ancient Earth civilizations. Led to a distant world and an advanced civilization, the crew seeks the origins of humanity, but instead discovers a threat that could cause the extinction of the human race. The crew includes Vickers (Charlize Theron), who is overseeing the expedition; Prometheus Captain Janek (Idris Elba), archeologist couple Shaw (the original "The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo" Noomi Rapace) and Holloway (Logan Marshall-Green) along with android David (Michael Fassbender). "Prometheus" is an ambitious yet electrifying thriller that marks an impressive return to form for Scott. The story, co-written by "Lost" scribe Damon Lindelof, has a slow start and seems to ask too many heavy questions (such as where do we come from?), seemingly opening up room for additional installments, but the pacing picks up in the mid-section and doesn't let go until the breathtaking finale. Rapace grounds the film well and makes for a great, new-generation Ripley, including an intense, uncomfortable scene that will remind you of earlier "Alien" installments. Theron, Elba and Fassbender are all solid, especially Fassbender, who has some of the best lines as the droid. The first-rate, handsome special effects, along with a great orchestral-heavy score, is the chief highlight for seeing "Prometheus," but unsurprising given Scott's penchant for memorable visuals. As for the secrecy surrounding all the "Alien" talk, that's answered with a bang in the final scene, which should make die-hard "Alien" fans very happy. Entertaining and satisfying, "Prometheus" is worth checking out.