Species V: The Next Evolution (2025)

More than two decades since the last installment, the Species franchise returns from cinematic hibernation with Species V: The Next Evolution, a bold, bloody, and surprisingly cerebral reboot-sequel hybrid that dares to expand on the series’ core concept — humanity’s dangerous flirtation with alien genetics.

Directed by Karyn Kusama, the new film shifts tone from pulpy body horror to a more grounded techno-thriller, while still delivering the DNA-splitting gore and seductive danger fans expect.

Set in 2025, the world has seemingly moved on from the previous alien hybrid incidents. But beneath the surface, a covert biotech firm known as NexGene has secretly revived and enhanced the original “Sil” DNA, combining it with advanced CRISPR-editing and Martian microbial samples recovered from a failed space mission.

The result: "Nova" — a genetically engineered hybrid played with chilling poise by rising star Anya Chalotra. Created to be smarter, faster, and more adaptable than any hybrid before her, Nova escapes containment after discovering her origin, triggering a global manhunt. But unlike her predecessors, she isn’t simply looking to breed — she’s evolving. Learning. Planning.

Meanwhile, a disgraced xenobiologist (Oscar Isaac) is recruited by a rogue UN task force to hunt Nova, but his motivations may not be purely noble. As bodies begin to pile up and mutations spread, it becomes clear: Nova isn't the end of a failed experiment — she’s the beginning of a new species.

While Species V pays homage to the seductive horror and sci-fi stylings of its predecessors, it updates the formula with modern anxieties: AI, gene editing, and humanity’s obsession with perfection. The film features sleek production design, clever practical effects (especially during Nova’s terrifying mid-transformation sequences), and a haunting electronic score.

Kusama’s direction brings a feminist edge to the story, reframing the hybrid not merely as a predator, but as a being seeking autonomy in a world that tries to control her body and destiny.

The pacing occasionally stumbles in its second act, but the final 20 minutes deliver a powerful, horrifying climax that sets the stage for even darker sequels.