John Dower, the acclaimed director who received a Bafta in 2024 for his work on "Lockerbie," has released a new documentary series exploring the infamous 1995 footage known as the "alien autopsy" film. The 18-minute black-and-white clip purports to show scientists in protective suits examining the body of an extraterrestrial being allegedly recovered from the 1947 crash near Roswell, New Mexico.

Rather than adopting a conspiratorial stance or outright debunking the footage, Dower’s film takes a measured and inquisitive approach to the complex story behind the material. The documentary delves into the various figures involved in the film’s creation and dissemination, presenting their perspectives with a tone described as wry and curious.

The original footage stirred significant controversy upon its release, drawing both intense interest and skepticism from audiences and researchers alike. Over the years, the authenticity of the film has been widely disputed, with many experts dismissing it as a hoax or a staged reenactment. Nevertheless, the clip has become a notable part of UFO lore and popular culture.

Dower’s documentary situates the film within this broader context, highlighting the cultural impact and the enduring fascination with the Roswell incident. By assembling interviews and archival material, the series portrays the story as a layered saga shaped by media, memory, and myth, rather than a straightforward case of evidence for extraterrestrial life.

The new production adds to ongoing public dialogues regarding the Roswell crash and the mythology surrounding it, inviting viewers to revisit the episode with fresh eyes while acknowledging its place in modern folklore.