In the vast expanse of cinematic galaxies, few genres captivate the imagination as profoundly as alien-themed movies. From the eerie silence of space to the enigmatic languages of extraterrestrial beings, films like "Arrival" have not only entertained but also challenged our perceptions of the universe and our place within it.
Whether it's the thrill of a first encounter or the philosophical musings on interstellar communication, these movies transport us to worlds both familiar and foreign. Dive into this curated list of the 25 best alien-themed films that echo the essence of "Arrival."
Prepare to embark on a cinematic journey that spans the cosmos, delving deep into the mysteries of the unknown and the very essence of what it means to be human.
E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial (1982)
In Steven Spielberg's timeless classic, a young boy named Elliott discovers a stranded alien he names E.T. As they form an unbreakable bond, Elliott and his siblings work to help E.T. return home while evading government agents. This heartwarming tale of friendship and adventure is a testament to Spielberg's masterful storytelling. Its blend of emotion, humor, and suspense has solidified "E.T." as one of the most endearing and high-quality films in cinematic history.
CAST
Henry Thomas
Drew Barrymore
Robert MacNaughton
Peter Coyote
Dee Wallace
Erika Eleniak
K.C. Martel
C. Thomas Howell
Sean Frye
Close Encounters of the Third Kind (1977)
94%
90
7.6Another Spielberg masterpiece, this film delves into the mysterious world of UFOs and human-alien contact. When Roy Neary witnesses a UFO, he becomes obsessed with understanding the phenomenon. As he embarks on a quest for answers, he encounters both skepticism and wonder. Spielberg's impeccable direction, combined with a compelling narrative, makes "Close Encounters" a standout, showcasing the director's ability to blend the extraordinary with the intimate.
CAST
Richard Dreyfuss
Teri Garr
Melinda Dillon
Bob Balaban
J. Patrick McNamara
Warren J. Kemmerling
Roberts Blossom
Phil Dodds
Cary Guffey
Interstellar (2014)
73%748.7Directed by Christopher Nolan, "Interstellar" is a visually stunning and intellectually stimulating journey through space and time. As Earth faces extinction, a group of astronauts embarks on a mission through a wormhole to find a new home for humanity. Nolan's intricate storytelling, combined with Hans Zimmer's haunting score, creates a film that's both a technical marvel and a profound exploration of love, sacrifice, and human survival. Its quality is evident in every frame, making it a modern sci-fi classic.
CAST
Matthew McConaughey
Anne Hathaway
Jessica Chastain
Bill Irwin
Ellen Burstyn
Michael Caine
Mackenzie Foy
Casey Affleck
John Lithgow
Wes Bentley
War of the Worlds (2005)
76%736.5In this thrilling adaptation of H.G. Wells' novel, Tom Cruise stars as Ray Ferrier, a father trying to protect his children from a sudden and terrifying alien invasion. Directed by Spielberg, the film is a roller-coaster of suspense and action. Its top-notch special effects, combined with Spielberg's knack for human drama, elevates "War of the Worlds" above many other alien invasion films, showcasing the director's ability to merge spectacle with emotional depth.
CAST
Tom Cruise
Dakota Fanning
Justin Chatwin
Miranda Otto
Tim Robbins
Rick Gonzalez
Yul Vazquez
Lenny Venito
Lisa Ann Walter
Ann Robinson
Predator (1987)
81%477.8Set in the dense jungles of Central America, a team of commandos, led by Major Dutch Schaefer (Arnold Schwarzenegger), finds themselves hunted by an extraterrestrial warrior. This action-packed thriller, directed by John McTiernan, masterfully blends sci-fi with raw combat sequences. The design of the Predator, combined with tight pacing and Schwarzenegger's iconic performance, makes this film not just a thrilling hunt but a high-quality cinematic experience that has stood the test of time.
CAST
Arnold Schwarzenegger
Carl Weathers
Elpidia Carrillo
Jesse Ventura
Sonny Landham
Bill Duke
Richard Chaves
R. G. Armstrong
Kevin Peter Hall
The Thing (1982)
578.2In John Carpenter's chilling masterpiece, a team of researchers in Antarctica encounters a malevolent alien entity capable of imitating any living being. As paranoia grips the crew, they must determine who among them is human and who is "The Thing." Carpenter's expert direction, combined with groundbreaking special effects, crafts a tense atmosphere that has made "The Thing" a revered classic. Its blend of horror and sci-fi showcases the genre's potential for psychological depth and visceral thrills.
CAST
Kurt Russell
Keith David
Wilford Brimley
T.K. Carter
David Clennon
Richard Dysart
Charles Hallahan
Peter Maloney
Richard Masur
Donald Moffat
2 degrees of seperation (similar to The Thing)
Signs (2002)
75%596.8M. Night Shyamalan's "Signs" is a suspenseful tale of a former priest, played by Mel Gibson, who discovers mysterious crop circles in his fields, signaling a potential extraterrestrial presence. As global events escalate, the film delves into themes of faith, family, and fear. Shyamalan's signature storytelling and the film's tight pacing make "Signs" a standout, demonstrating the director's unique ability to turn the ordinary into the extraordinary.
CAST
Mel Gibson
Joaquin Phoenix
Rory Culkin
Abigail Breslin
Cherry Jones
Patricia Kalember
Ted Sutton
Merritt Wever
Lanny Flaherty
Super 8 (2011)
81%727Directed by J.J. Abrams and produced by Steven Spielberg, "Super 8" captures the spirit of classic '80s films while telling a fresh story. A group of kids, while filming their own movie, accidentally captures footage of a train crash that unleashes an alien entity. The film's blend of nostalgia, heartfelt performances, and thrilling sequences showcases Abrams' talent for crafting engaging, high-quality cinematic experiences.
CAST
Joel Courtney
Elle Fanning
Riley Griffiths
Kyle Chandler
Noah Emmerich
AJ Michalka
Ryan Lee
Ron Eldard
Gabriel Basso
Bruce Greenwood
District 9 (2009)
90%817.9Neill Blomkamp's directorial debut, "District 9," is a gritty, thought-provoking take on the alien genre. Set in South Africa, it follows the story of Wikus van de Merwe, who becomes involved with an alien species confined to a government camp. The film's innovative storytelling, combined with its social commentary, makes "District 9" not just an action-packed sci-fi but also a poignant reflection on humanity. Its quality is evident in its narrative depth and visual realism.
CAST
Sharlto Copley
Jason Cope
Nathalie Boltt
Sylvaine Strike
Elizabeth Mkandawie
John Sumner
William Allen Young
Nick Blake
Greg Melvill-Smith
Robert Hobbs
Prometheus (2012)
73%647Ridley Scott returns to the universe he created with "Prometheus," a prequel to the iconic "Alien" series. Following a team of explorers seeking the origins of humanity, they discover clues that lead them to a distant world, only to uncover terrifying secrets. Scott's masterful direction, combined with stunning visuals and a thought-provoking plot, ensures "Prometheus" stands as a high-quality addition to the storied franchise, pushing the boundaries of existential sci-fi.
CAST
Noomi Rapace
Michael Fassbender
Charlize Theron
Idris Elba
Guy Pearce
Logan Marshall-Green
Sean Harris
Rafe Spall
Emun Elliott
Benedict Wong
The Fifth Element (1997)
71%527.6In Luc Besson's visually dazzling sci-fi adventure, the future of the universe hinges on a mysterious fifth element named Leeloo. As Earth faces impending doom, cab driver Korben Dallas finds himself intertwined with Leeloo's destiny. With its vibrant world-building, eccentric characters, and a standout performance by Milla Jovovich, "The Fifth Element" is a unique blend of humor, action, and romance. Its distinct style and imaginative narrative make it a standout, showcasing Besson's flair for creating memorable cinematic experiences.
CAST
Bruce Willis
Milla Jovovich
Gary Oldman
Ian Holm
Chris Tucker
Luke Perry
Brion James
Tommy Lister Jr.
Lee Evans
Charlie Creed-Miles
Contact (1997)
68%627.5Based on Carl Sagan's novel, "Contact" is a thought-provoking exploration of humanity's first encounter with extraterrestrial intelligence. Dr. Ellie Arroway, played brilliantly by Jodie Foster, deciphers a signal from deep space, leading to profound revelations about human existence and our place in the cosmos. Directed by Robert Zemeckis, the film masterfully balances scientific intrigue with deep emotional resonance. Its quality lies in its ability to challenge the mind while touching the heart.
CAST
Jodie Foster
Matthew McConaughey
James Woods
John Hurt
Tom Skerritt
William Fichtner
David Morse
Angela Bassett
Geoffrey Blake
Max Martini
Starman (1984)
86%707John Carpenter's "Starman" tells the tale of an alien who comes to Earth and assumes the form of a woman's deceased husband. As they embark on a journey together, a unique bond forms between them. Jeff Bridges delivers a captivating performance, capturing the innocence and curiosity of an alien in a human world. Carpenter's direction, known for horror classics, shines in this heartfelt sci-fi romance, proving his versatility and the film's enduring quality.
CAST
Jeff Bridges
Karen Allen
Charles Martin Smith
Richard Jaeckel
Robert Phalen
Tony Edwards
John Walter Davis
Ted White
Dirk Blocker
M.C. Gainey
Moon (2009)
Moon (2009) Set on a lunar base, "Moon" is a gripping tale of isolation, identity, and humanity. Sam Bell, portrayed with depth by Sam Rockwell, is nearing the end of his three-year stint mining the moon when he begins to experience unsettling events. Directed by Duncan Jones, the film is a masterclass in minimalist sci-fi, relying on a strong script and Rockwell's powerful performance. Its quality is evident in its ability to evoke profound emotions and thoughts with a limited setting and cast.
CAST
Sam Rockwell
Kevin Spacey
Dominique McElligott
Rosie Shaw
Adrienne Shaw
Kaya Scodelario
Benedict Wong
Matt Berry
Malcolm Stewart
Robin Chalk
Cocoon (1985)
76%656.7In this touching sci-fi drama directed by Ron Howard, a group of elderly individuals discovers a pool with the power to grant rejuvenation, thanks to alien cocoons stored within. As they grapple with the allure of youth and the implications of their discovery, heartfelt moments ensue. "Cocoon" stands out for its unique take on the alien genre, focusing on themes of aging and friendship. Its blend of humor, emotion, and wonder underscores Howard's ability to craft quality, character-driven narratives.
CAST
Steve Guttenberg
Tahnee Welch
Brian Dennehy
Don Ameche
Wilford Brimley
Hume Cronyn
Maureen Stapleton
Jack Gilford
Jessica Tandy
Clint Howard
Annihilation (2018)
88%796.8In Alex Garland's visually arresting and thought-provoking film, a biologist joins an expedition into a mysterious shimmering zone where the laws of nature are distorted. As the team delves deeper, they confront both beautiful and terrifying transformations of the environment and themselves. "Annihilation" stands out for its unique blend of horror, science fiction, and existential drama. Garland's meticulous direction and the film's haunting visuals make it a high-quality, mesmerizing cinematic experience that lingers long after the credits roll.
CAST
Natalie Portman
Jennifer Jason Leigh
Gina Rodriguez
Tessa Thompson
Tuva Novotny
Oscar Isaac
Benedict Wong
Sonoya Mizuno
David Gyasi
John Schwab
The Day the Earth Stood Still (1951)
95%837.8This iconic sci-fi classic directed by Robert Wise tells the story of an alien visitor, Klaatu, and his powerful robot, Gort, who come to Earth with a warning for its inhabitants. The film masterfully combines Cold War anxieties with a plea for global peace. Its compelling narrative, combined with groundbreaking special effects for its time, cements "The Day the Earth Stood Still" as a top-tier, influential entry in the science fiction genre.
CAST
Michael Rennie
Patricia Neal
Billy Gray
Sam Jaffe
Hugh Marlowe
Lock Martin
Freeman Lusk
Edith Evanson
Frank Conroy
Frances Bavier
Solaris (1972)
92%938Andrei Tarkovsky's "Solaris" is a meditative exploration of grief, memory, and human connection set against the backdrop of a sentient planet. When a psychologist is sent to a space station orbiting the mysterious planet Solaris, he encounters the manifestations of his deepest regrets and desires. Tarkovsky's poetic and philosophical approach to science fiction results in a film that is as visually stunning as it is intellectually profound. "Solaris" is a testament to the quality of cinema that transcends genre boundaries.
CAST
Donatas Banionis
Natalya Bondarchuk
Jüri Järvet
Anatoliy Solonitsyn
Nikolay Grinko
Vladislav Dvorzhetsky
Georgiy Teykh
Sos Sargsyan
Olga Barnet
Tamara Ogorodnikova
More Hidden Gems Like 'Arrival'
Venturing beyond the blockbuster hits, the realm of underrated films offers hidden gems that deserve the spotlight.
These lesser-known alien-themed masterpieces, echoing the nuances of "Arrival," provide a unique blend of intrigue and introspection. Dive into this selection and discover cinematic treasures that have flown under the mainstream radar.
Under the Skin (2014)
84%826.3In this enigmatic and atmospheric film, Scarlett Johansson plays an alien entity that assumes the form of a woman to prey on men in Scotland. Director Jonathan Glazer crafts a haunting narrative that is both visually and thematically rich. With its minimalist dialogue, mesmerizing visuals, and a chilling score, "Under the Skin" is a high-quality cinematic experience that delves deep into themes of identity, humanity, and isolation.
CAST
Scarlett Johansson
Jeremy McWilliams
Lynsey Taylor Mackay
Dougie McConnell
Kevin McAlinden
D. Meade
Joe Szula
Kryštof Hádek
Roy Armstrong
Midnight Special (2016)
83%766.6Directed by Jeff Nichols, "Midnight Special" is a gripping tale of a father and son on the run from both the government and a cult, due to the child's mysterious abilities. The film masterfully blends elements of sci-fi with a heartfelt family drama. Its tight pacing, compelling performances, especially by Michael Shannon, and the intriguing premise make "Midnight Special" a standout, showcasing Nichols' ability to deliver quality storytelling that resonates on multiple levels.
CAST
Michael Shannon
Jaeden Martell
Joel Edgerton
Kirsten Dunst
Adam Driver
David Jensen
Sam Shepard
Scott Haze
Dana Gourrier
Paul Sparks
Coherence (2013)
88%657.2On a night when a comet passes by Earth, a group of friends at a dinner party experiences a series of bizarre and unsettling events. As reality seems to shift and fracture, they must confront their fears and uncertainties. Directed by James Ward Byrkit, "Coherence" is a mind-bending exploration of parallel universes and human relationships. Its clever narrative structure and suspenseful atmosphere showcase the film's quality, making it a standout in the realm of indie sci-fi.
CAST
Emily Baldoni
Maury Sterling
Nicholas Brendon
Elizabeth Gracen
Hugo Armstrong
Alex Manugian
Lauren Maher
Kelly Donovan
Aqueela Zoll
Another Earth (2011)
66%666.9The discovery of a mirror Earth in the sky serves as the backdrop for this poignant drama. As Rhoda, a young woman burdened by guilt, forms a connection with a grieving composer, they grapple with redemption and second chances. Directed by Mike Cahill, "Another Earth" is a beautifully crafted film that merges sci-fi with deep emotional introspection. Its unique premise and powerful performances highlight its exceptional quality in the indie film landscape.
CAST
Brit Marling
William Mapother
Matthew-Lee Erlbach
Meggan Lennon
AJ Diana
Kumar Pallana
Bruce Colbert
Ana Valle
The Signal (2014)
60%546Three college students on a road trip encounter a mysterious hacker, leading them to an isolated area where they face an enigmatic and potentially extraterrestrial threat. William Eubank's "The Signal" is a visually arresting and unpredictable sci-fi thriller. Its blend of intrigue, suspense, and stunning cinematography underscores the film's quality, marking Eubank as a director with a distinctive vision.
CAST
Brenton Thwaites
Olivia Cooke
Beau Knapp
Laurence Fishburne
Robert Longstreet
Lin Shaye
Jeffrey Grover
Patrick Davidson
Roy Kenny
Timothy Holmes
Take Shelter (2011)
92%857.3Curtis, played by Michael Shannon, is plagued by apocalyptic visions, leading him to question his sanity and the safety of his family. As he becomes obsessed with building a storm shelter, the line between reality and paranoia blurs. Directed by Jeff Nichols, "Take Shelter" is a tense and atmospheric drama that masterfully explores mental illness and familial bonds. Its compelling narrative and Shannon's riveting performance attest to the film's high quality and depth.
CAST
Michael Shannon
Jessica Chastain
Katy Mixon
Shea Whigham
Ray McKinnon
Tova Stewart
Natasha Randall
Ron Kennard
Scott Knisley
Robert Longstreet
The Man from Earth (2007)
100%7.8During a farewell gathering, Professor John Oldman makes a shocking revelation to his colleagues: he's been alive for 14,000 years. As they grapple with his claim, a philosophical discussion ensues about history, religion, and humanity. Directed by Richard Schenkman and written by Jerome Bixby, "The Man from Earth" is a dialogue-driven film that stands out for its intellectual depth and unique premise. Its quality lies in its ability to engage the audience with thought-provoking questions and compelling storytelling.
CAST
David Lee Smith
Tony Todd
John Billingsley
Ellen Crawford
Annika Peterson
Alexis Thorpe
William Katt
Richard Riehle
Steven Littles
Chase Sprague