Says dumb
The air scan is not the issue. The issue is that the expedition's whole protocol is to stay sealed until the air has been tested over time. Removing a helmet in a place that old is a decision made for the script, not for the character.
Why did Holloway take his helmet off on an alien planet?
Prometheus
Prometheus (2012)
At 0:46:00Staff
Verdict: Guilty. 86% of viewers say this is dumb. Top defense: The scan showed breathable air, and Holloway had waited his whole career for this moment.
Guilty
86% dumb14% explained
812 votes
Dumbness rating
8.1/ 10(812 ratings)Out of characterIgnores obvious danger
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What happens in this scene
Inside the alien structure, the team's scan reports breathable air. Holloway removes his helmet despite having no proof the air is safe for humans over time. The rest of the crew keep theirs on.
The tone toggle also switches the reviews below. Contains spoilers for this scene only.
Reviews 3
Says dumb
Holloway wants to be the first person to see an alien world without a visor. That motive is clear, but it still runs against what an experienced explorer would do, and the film does not address the risk.
Says explained
The film sets up Holloway as reckless and driven by wanting proof. Given what the character is shown to be, the choice is consistent even if it is a poor decision.
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Actually, it’s explained
The scan showed breathable air, and Holloway had waited his whole career for this moment.
- DumbScenesStaff9 months ago
The scan showed breathable air, and Holloway had waited his whole career for this moment.
- ben_the_skepticSupporter3 months ago
He is shown as reckless in the earlier scenes. This is character behavior, not a plot error.
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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.
Add a lineAccepted fix
Have Janek confirm over the radio that the air has stayed stable for an hour before anyone touches a latch.
Would this fix it?93% say yes
DumbScenesStaff6 months ago
A newer idea
Cut a line
Cut the shot of the helmet leaving his head. Let him say he wants to and cut to the next room.
Would this fix it?44% say yes
harbor_lightsFounding Critic #58Supporter4 weeks ago
More fixes
Swap a detail
Make it a sealed viewing port instead: Holloway presses his face to the glass and says he cannot wait any longer.
Would this fix it?75% say yes
script_doctor_samSupporter1 month ago
- canon_keeper
Then the later infection plot loses its trigger.
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Also asked as
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