The Prometheus of Greek myth was the titan who stole fire -- and a love of science and the intellect -- from the gods of Olympus. If Ol' Pro' saw this eponymous film, he might keep the fire but give the rest back.

It's about a lot of things. The beginnings of life. Man's place in the universe. But most importantly, it's about Scott returning to the genre he served so well and that in turn served him so well, to prove he still has what it takes to make his mark.

Prometheus, director Ridley Scott's return to science fiction has engendered debate about whether it's a prequel to the classic original Alien or a story taking place in the Alien universe. An argument can be made either way but there's no argument that Prometheus is the most intriguing, gory, and thrilling of the post-Alien films.

Since Lindelof is known for making the TV series Lost rather "twisty," I ask him about creating narrative surprises in the wake of M. Night Shyamalan.

As an act of cinema, Prometheus is stunningly designed, shot with great purpose in a serious fashion. As a movie, however, it never quite fulfills and I left Prometheus feeling unsatisfied.