Says dumb
The act itself is too sudden and the film does not give David anything to say about it. The lack of motive is a story weakness.
Why did David put the black liquid in Holloway's drink?
Prometheus
Prometheus (2012)
At 1:05:00
Verdict: Explained. 36% of viewers say this is dumb. Top defense: Most viewers read it as David acting on Weyland's wishes to learn what the substance does.
Explained
36% dumb64% explained
420 votes
Dumbness rating
4.1/ 10(420 ratings)Explained. More viewers say this scene is explained than dumb, so it does not count toward the title score.
Out of characterPlot hole
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What happens in this scene
David, the ship's android, puts a drop of the black liquid from the structure into Holloway's drink. The film gives no explicit reason. Holloway falls ill shortly afterward.
The tone toggle also switches the reviews below. Contains spoilers for this scene only.
Reviews 3
Says explained
David is shown as curious and loyal to Weyland. The film leaves his motive open, but it is plausible he is testing the substance on a person on Weyland's behalf.
Says explained
A thoughtful reading makes this one of the film's clearer scenes: David is following an agenda. It is the audience being asked to infer.
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Actually, it’s explained
Most viewers read it as David acting on Weyland's wishes to learn what the substance does.
- DumbScenesStaff7 months ago
Most viewers read it as David acting on Weyland's wishes to learn what the substance does.
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Quick Fix
Fixes are written by people. The smallest change, in 200 characters or fewer, that would have fixed the scene. AI is used only for duplicate detection, length and moderation.
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David asks Weyland over comms, 'Shall I proceed with the test?' and the audience hears the reply.
Would this fix it?68% say yes
script_doctor_samSupporter5 weeks ago
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Also asked as
- Why did David infect Holloway?
- What was David's reason for poisoning Holloway?