Exploring alien movies can be a thrilling journey into the unknown. Through the lens of alien encounters, filmmakers can explore poignant themes and taboo topics surrounding humanity and ethics. But they can also be fun, comedic, and downright strange, just like any other film genre. From terrifying encounters to heartwarming friendships, here’s a diverse list of some of the best alien movies that will make your eyes wander toward the stars.
E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial
E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial captures the wonder and innocence of childhood, making it a timeless classic that unites generations. Undoubtedly the most loveable alien of all time, E.T. is a stranded alien who befriends a young boy named Elliot. Their bond and the quest to help E.T. return home are both heartwarming and adventurous, resonating with audiences of all ages.
Alien
Ridley Scott’s horror masterpiece utilizes suspense and the unknown to create an unforgettable sci-fi horror experience. Few films use the fear of the unseen so palpably, and Sigourney Weaver’s portrayal of Ripley adds incredible depth and strength to Ridley’s dystopian world.
The Thing
Another cornerstone of the genre, John Carpenter’s The Thing, introduces an alien that can mimic any life form, leading to intense paranoia and distrust among a group of scientists in Antarctica. Using tension to create one of cinema’s most chilling atmospheres, the practical effects of creating the alien are grotesque and fascinating.
Arrival
This masterclass in tension building takes a few surprising turns by playing on the viewer’s preconceived notions of Alien life. Denis Villeneuve’s Arrival is a thought-provoking film about first contact with extraterrestrial beings, depicting profound revelations about language, time, and humanity.
District 9
District 9 presents a gritty, realistic take on aliens as refugees in Johannesburg, South Africa. The film is a powerful allegory on human rights and segregation, depicting how aliens, derogatorily called “prawns,” are mistreated. Its documentary-style approach and strong social commentary make it a standout in the genre.
Close Encounters of the Third Kind
Steven Spielberg’s Close Encounters of the Third Kind explores human fascination with extraterrestrial life. While questioning our perceptions of otherworldly life, we follow Roy Neary, who becomes obsessed with mysterious visions after encountering a UFO. What follows is a mesmerizing journey of discovery and wonder, with iconic scenes and a memorable score by John Williams.
Under the Skin
Scarlett Johansson delivers a powerful and poignant performance in her first and only role as an alien seductress preying on men in Scotland. The film is haunting and visually stunning, delving into themes of identity and humanity, while its minimalist dialogue creates a sense of unease that lingers long after the credits roll.
Predator
In an oppressive jungle setting, Predator blends action and sci-fi. A deadly alien hunter stalks a team of commandos in the jungle. Arnold Schwarzenegger leads the group in a battle for survival against the technologically advanced predator. With an impressive cult following, the film’s mix of intense action and suspenseful horror makes it a beloved entry in the genre.
Signs
Night Shyamalan’s Signs focuses on a family experiencing alien phenomena on their farm. The film builds suspense through its atmospheric storytelling and exploration of faith and fear. Mel Gibson and Joaquin Phoenix deliver strong performances, adding emotional depth to the tense narrative.
Independence Day
A blockbuster featuring a global battle against alien invaders, Independence Day is known for its spectacular action sequences and patriotic spirit. Will Smith and Jeff Goldblum lead the charge against the extraterrestrial threat, making it a thrilling and entertaining ride.
War of the Worlds
Adapting a seminal work such as H.G. Wells’ novel, War of the Worlds, was never going to be easy, but Spielberg did a fantastic job. This intense viewing experience depicts a desperate fight for survival against a ruthless alien invasion, starring Tom Cruise as a father trying to protect his children amidst the chaos.
Men in Black
Men in Black is a fun, action-packed film about secret agents monitoring alien activities on Earth. Will Smith and Tommy Lee Jones star as agents J and K, blending humor with inventive sci-fi elements. The film’s quirky aliens and clever gadgets make it a memorable and entertaining watch.
Contact
Another adaptation of a famous novel, Contact, explores the search for extraterrestrial intelligence explored in Carl Sagan’s exceptional work. Jodie Foster stars as a scientist who makes first contact with an alien civilization before embarking on a journey that questions humanity’s place in the universe.
Cloverfield
Cloverfield is a found-footage monster movie with an alien twist that has garnered an impressive cult following. The audience follows a group of friends trying to survive a giant creature’s attack on New York City, with this setting perfectly capturing the chaos of an alien invasion.
The Day the Earth Stood Still
Known for addressing the potential consequences of human violence more than its alien content, The Day the Earth Stood Still features an extraterrestrial creature named Klaatu visiting Earth with a dire warning. The film’s message about peace and cooperation is timeless, and its impact on the sci-fi genre is undeniable.
Guardians of the Galaxy
A fun, space-faring adventure with a team of misfit heroes, Guardians of the Galaxy blends humor, action, and heart. Chris Pratt, Zoe Saldana, and a talking raccoon and tree make for an unforgettable team. The film’s stellar soundtrack and vibrant visuals add to its charm.
Starship Troopers
Combining satire with alien encounters is nothing new, but Starship Troopers takes it one step further by including militarism and fascism. In this powerful film, we follow soldiers battling an insect-like alien race, causing us to question the nature of war and propaganda.
The Abyss
James Cameron’s The Abyss explores deep-sea divers encountering an alien species. The film is visually stunning and emotionally engaging, with groundbreaking underwater cinematography. Its exploration of human and alien connections adds depth to the thrilling narrative.
Prometheus
Ridley Scott’s prequel to Alien delves into the origins of humanity and alien life. Prometheus is visually grand and philosophically intriguing, raising questions about creation and existence. Noomi Rapace and Michael Fassbender deliver standout performances in this thought-provoking film.
Paul
Alien comedies aren’t exactly rare, but few strike the balance of humor and as well as Paul. This mystery-comedy about two friends who meet an alien on a road trip combines humor with a love for sci-fi culture and nerdiness. Starring Simon Pegg and Nick Frost, the film is a fun and affectionate tribute to alien movies, filled with references and laughs.
Mars Attacks!
If you want a less intense viewing experience and to see a more comic side to the alien film genre, look no further than the cult classic Mars Attacks! A campy, star-studded comedy about a Martian invasion, Mars Attacks! is a playful, satirical take on classic alien invasion tropes.
