22 Best Alien Movies: Out-of-This-World Films Featuring Extraterrestrial Encounters

The concept of extraterrestrial life has long fascinated humanity, and it has served as a rich source of inspiration for filmmakers over the years.

The best alien movies are those that combine imaginative storytelling, stunning visual effects, and compelling performances to create a cinematic experience that is both thrilling and thought-provoking.

From classic sci-fi films like “The Day the Earth Stood Still” and “Close Encounters of the Third Kind” to modern blockbusters like “Avatar” and “Arrival,” the genre has produced some of the most iconic and memorable movies in cinematic history.

Best Alien Movies

Whether exploring the mysteries of the universe or examining the human condition through the lens of an extraterrestrial encounter, the best alien movies have something to offer viewers of all ages and tastes.

1. Arrival (II) (2016)

Arrival is a 2016 science fiction film directed by Denis Villeneuve, based on the short story “Story of Your Life” by Ted Chiang. The film stars Amy Adams as a linguist who is recruited by the military to communicate with extraterrestrial visitors who have arrived on Earth.

Arrival is notable for its exploration of complex themes such as language, communication, and time. The film’s unique approach to storytelling, which involves non-linear narration and a nonlinear perception of time, has been widely praised for its thought-provoking and emotional impact.

The film’s visual effects and cinematography are also noteworthy, with stunning visuals that enhance the film’s sense of wonder and mystery.

Upon its release, Arrival received critical acclaim and was a box office success. The film was nominated for multiple Academy Awards, including Best Picture, and won for Best Sound Editing.

Its innovative storytelling and exploration of profound ideas have made it a modern classic in the science fiction genre.

2. Alien (1979)

“Alien” is a science fiction horror movie released in 1979, directed by Ridley Scott and starring Sigourney Weaver.

The film follows the crew of the commercial spacecraft Nostromo, who are awakened from their cryogenic sleep on their return trip to Earth after intercepting a distress signal from an unknown planet.

Upon landing, they discover a strange alien creature that attaches itself to one of the crew members and lays eggs inside him. As the creature grows and begins to hunt the crew, they must fight to survive and find a way to destroy it before it reaches Earth.

“Alien” is renowned for its tense and suspenseful atmosphere, as well as its groundbreaking visual and creature effects.

The film’s claustrophobic setting, strong female protagonist, and terrifying alien creature have made it a classic of the science fiction and horror genres, and it has spawned numerous sequels, prequels, and spinoffs over the years.

The movie’s exploration of themes such as the fear of the unknown, the dangers of corporate greed, and the struggle for survival in an uncaring universe have made it a favorite among both critics and audiences.

“Alien” is widely regarded as one of the greatest science fiction movies ever made, and its impact on popular culture and filmmaking continues to be felt today.

3. The Thing (1982)

“The Thing” is a 1982 science-fiction horror film directed by John Carpenter and starring Kurt Russell. The film is a remake of the 1951 film “The Thing from Another World” and is based on the 1938 novella “Who Goes There?” by John W. Campbell Jr.

The film tells the story of a group of researchers in Antarctica who encounter a shape-shifting alien creature that can mimic and absorb other life forms.

As the creature begins to kill and replace the researchers one by one, paranoia and mistrust escalate among the survivors.

“The Thing” is widely regarded as a classic of the horror and science-fiction genres, and is praised for its tense atmosphere, innovative special effects, and strong performances.

The film’s themes of isolation, distrust, and the fear of the unknown continue to resonate with audiences today, and its influence can be seen in many subsequent films.

“The Thing” was not a commercial success upon its release, but has since gained a cult following and is considered one of Carpenter’s most iconic and influential films.

4. Aliens (1986)

“Aliens” is a 1986 science fiction action film directed by James Cameron and the sequel to the 1979 film “Alien”. The film stars Sigourney Weaver as Ellen Ripley, who returns to the planet where she first encountered the deadly alien species, this time accompanied by a team of space marines.

The film is known for its intense and suspenseful action sequences, as well as its strong themes of motherhood and female empowerment.

It also introduced several iconic characters and elements to the Alien franchise, including the alien queen and the pulse rifle weapon.

“Aliens” was a critical and commercial success, and it received seven Academy Award nominations, including Best Actress for Sigourney Weaver.

It has since become a cult classic and is widely regarded as one of the best action and science fiction films of all time.

5. E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial (1982)

“E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial” is a science fiction film released in 1982, directed by Steven Spielberg and starring Henry Thomas, Dee Wallace, and Peter Coyote.

The film tells the story of a young boy named Elliott who befriends a stranded alien and helps him find a way back to his home planet.

“E.T.” is widely regarded as a classic of science fiction and family films, and is known for its heartwarming story, memorable characters, and iconic imagery.

The film was a massive commercial success, becoming the highest-grossing film of all time upon its release, and was also a critical darling, receiving multiple Academy Award nominations.

One of the key reasons to watch “E.T.” is its emotional resonance. The film deals with themes of friendship, family, and the power of love and acceptance, making it a moving and uplifting experience for viewers of all ages.

The relationship between Elliott and E.T. is particularly poignant, as the two form a deep bond despite their vastly different backgrounds.

Another reason to watch “E.T.” is its stunning visual effects. The design of E.T. himself, with his elongated neck, glowing heart, and expressive eyes, has become iconic in the world of cinema and popular culture.

The film also features impressive practical effects and puppetry, which help to bring the alien world to life in a believable and immersive way.

Finally, “E.T.” is an important film in the history of cinema, representing a milestone in the career of director Steven Spielberg and a defining moment in the popular culture of the 1980s.

Watching the film today can offer a glimpse into a bygone era of filmmaking and storytelling, while also providing timeless entertainment and emotional resonance for modern audiences.

6. District 9 (2009)

“District 9” is a 2009 science fiction film directed by Neill Blomkamp and produced by Peter Jackson. The movie is set in a fictional world where aliens have landed on Earth and are forced to live in a slum-like area called District 9.

The story follows a government agent named Wikus Van De Merwe, who is tasked with overseeing the eviction of the aliens from District 9, but things take a dangerous turn when he is exposed to a mysterious alien substance.

One of the strengths of “District 9” is its use of a documentary-style format to tell the story, which gives the film a unique and immersive feel. The movie also uses stunning visual effects to bring the aliens to life, creating a realistic and believable portrayal of extraterrestrial life.

At its core, “District 9” is a commentary on issues such as xenophobia, racism, and social injustice. The film explores themes of segregation and discrimination, and raises important questions about how we treat those who are different from us.

It is a thought-provoking and emotionally powerful movie that has resonated with audiences around the world.

Overall, “District 9” is a compelling and innovative science fiction film that stands out for its visual effects, storytelling, and social commentary. It is a must-watch for fans of the genre, as well as anyone interested in thought-provoking and socially relevant cinema.

7. Edge of Tomorrow (2014)

“Edge of Tomorrow” is a 2014 science fiction film directed by Doug Liman and starring Tom Cruise and Emily Blunt.

The film is based on the Japanese light novel “All You Need Is Kill” by Hiroshi Sakurazaka and follows the story of William “Bill” Cage, a military officer who is killed in battle against an alien race known as the Mimics.

However, he wakes up and finds himself back at the start of the day, stuck in a time loop.

With the help of Rita Vrataski, a skilled soldier who has experienced a similar time loop, Cage repeatedly lives the same day over and over again, using his knowledge of future events to try to change the outcome of the battle and defeat the Mimics.

“Edge of Tomorrow” received critical acclaim for its inventive premise, strong performances, and stunning visual effects.

The film was praised for its fast-paced action sequences and the chemistry between Tom Cruise and Emily Blunt. It has become a beloved favorite among fans of science fiction and action films and remains one of the best alien movies of recent years.

8. Predator (1987)

Predator is a 1987 science fiction action film directed by John McTiernan and starring Arnold Schwarzenegger. The film follows a team of commandos on a mission in a Central American jungle, who are hunted by a technologically advanced alien predator.

Predator is known for its thrilling action sequences, tense atmosphere, and iconic villain design.

The film’s innovative use of special effects and practical creature design, combined with Schwarzenegger’s commanding presence, make for a highly entertaining and memorable movie experience.

Predator was a box office success upon its release and has since become a cult classic. The film has inspired numerous sequels, spin-offs, and adaptations across various media, cementing its place as a beloved icon of the science fiction and action genres.

9. The Day the Earth Stood Still (1951)

“The Day the Earth Stood Still” is a science fiction movie released in 1951, directed by Robert Wise and starring Michael Rennie and Patricia Neal.

The film follows an alien named Klaatu (Michael Rennie) who arrives on Earth with a message of peace and warning about the dangers of humanity’s nuclear weapons.

However, when Klaatu is shot and injured by a panicked soldier, he is taken to a hospital and assumes the identity of a human scientist in order to learn more about Earth and its inhabitants.

As he attempts to deliver his message to world leaders, he must evade the authorities and convince humanity to change its ways before it’s too late.

“The Day the Earth Stood Still” is renowned for its thoughtful exploration of complex themes, such as the dangers of nuclear war, the potential for humanity to change, and the importance of understanding and empathy.

The film’s message of peace and its warning about the dangers of technology and hubris have made it a classic of the science fiction genre, and it continues to be widely regarded as one of the greatest science fiction movies ever made.

The film’s iconic robot, Gort, and its memorable score by composer Bernard Herrmann have also contributed to its lasting popularity and influence.

“The Day the Earth Stood Still” has been remade and referenced numerous times in popular culture, and its impact on science fiction movies and television shows can still be felt today.

10. Invasion of the Body Snatchers (1956)

“Invasion of the Body Snatchers” is a 1956 science fiction film directed by Don Siegel and starring Kevin McCarthy and Dana Wynter. The film is based on the 1954 novel “The Body Snatchers” by Jack Finney.

The film tells the story of a small town doctor who discovers that the townspeople are being replaced by emotionless duplicates, grown from plant-like pods. As the doctor tries to warn others and escape the town, he realizes that the invasion is spreading and no one can be trusted.

“Invasion of the Body Snatchers” is widely regarded as a classic of the science fiction and horror genres, and is praised for its commentary on conformity and paranoia in Cold War America.

The film’s tense atmosphere, inventive special effects, and strong performances have made it a cultural touchstone, and its influence can be seen in many subsequent films and TV shows.

The film has been remade several times, but the 1956 original remains a seminal work of science fiction cinema, and a testament to the power of cinema to reflect and critique the anxieties of its time.

11. Close Encounters of the Third Kind (1977)

“Close Encounters of the Third Kind” is a 1977 science fiction film written and directed by Steven Spielberg.

The film tells the story of a group of people who experience strange phenomena related to UFO sightings, leading them to a mysterious rendezvous with extraterrestrial life.

The film is known for its iconic visual effects, including the use of light and sound to create an otherworldly atmosphere, as well as its memorable musical score composed by John Williams.

It also explores themes of human curiosity, communication, and the possibility of life beyond our planet.

“Close Encounters of the Third Kind” was a critical and commercial success, grossing over $300 million worldwide and receiving eight Academy Award nominations, including Best Director and Best Picture.

It has since become a beloved classic of science fiction cinema, and its influence can be seen in numerous films and TV shows that followed.

12. Contact (1997)

“Contact” is a science fiction film released in 1997, directed by Robert Zemeckis and starring Jodie Foster, Matthew McConaughey, and Tom Skerrit.

The film is based on the novel of the same name by Carl Sagan, and tells the story of a scientist named Ellie Arroway who discovers evidence of extra terrestrial life and struggles to convince the world of its significance.

One of the key reasons to watch “Contact” is its thought-provoking exploration of the intersection between science and faith.

The film raises questions about the nature of the universe, the existence of God, and the limits of human knowledge, and offers no easy answers, challenging viewers to think deeply about these complex issues.

Another reason to watch “Contact” is its impressive visual effects, which were ground breaking for their time.

The film features stunning depictions of alien worlds and technology, as well as a breathtaking sequence in which Ellie travels through a wormhole and experiences the wonders of the cosmos firsthand.

Finally, “Contact” is a showcase for the talents of its lead actress, Jodie Foster, who delivers a powerful and nuanced performance as Ellie Arroway.

Foster’s portrayal of a brilliant, determined scientist struggling to reconcile her rational worldview with her own emotional and spiritual needs is both compelling and deeply moving.

Overall, “Contact” is a thought-provoking and visually stunning film that offers a unique and engaging exploration of some of the biggest questions in science, religion, and human existence.

13. 10 Cloverfield Lane (2016)

“10 Cloverfield Lane” is a 2016 science fiction thriller film directed by Dan Trachtenberg and produced by J.J. Abrams.

The movie follows Michelle, a young woman who wakes up after a car accident to find herself trapped in an underground bunker with two men who claim that a catastrophic event has occurred, leaving the outside world uninhabitable.

One of the strengths of “10 Cloverfield Lane” is its ability to keep the audience on the edge of their seats throughout the film. The tension is built slowly but effectively, as the characters become increasingly suspicious of each other and the true nature of their situation is revealed.

The film also features strong performances from its three leads, Mary Elizabeth Winstead, John Goodman, and John Gallagher Jr., who bring a depth and complexity to their characters.

While “10 Cloverfield Lane” is loosely connected to the 2008 film “Cloverfield,” it stands on its own as a tense and claustrophobic thriller. It explores themes of trust, paranoia, and survival, and raises important questions about the lengths that people will go to in order to protect themselves.

Overall, “10 Cloverfield Lane” is a gripping and suspenseful film that will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end. It is a must-watch for fans of science fiction and thriller genres, as well as anyone who enjoys a well-crafted and thought-provoking story.

14. Men in Black (1997)

“Men in Black” is a 1997 science fiction action-comedy film directed by Barry Sonnenfeld and starring Will Smith and Tommy Lee Jones.

The film is based on the comic book series of the same name by Lowell Cunningham and follows the story of Agent J (Will Smith), a New York City cop who is recruited by Agent K (Tommy Lee Jones) to join the secret organization known as the Men in Black.

Whose mission is to monitor and regulate extraterrestrial activity on Earth.

Together, J and K investigate a series of attacks by a dangerous alien race called the Bug, who is disguised as a human and plans to steal a powerful device called the Galaxy.

With the help of their advanced technology and their knowledge of the alien underworld, J and K set out to stop the Bug and save the planet from destruction.

“Men in Black” was a commercial and critical success upon its release, praised for its humor, visual effects, and the chemistry between its two leads. The film spawned two sequels, an animated series, and a spin-off film, and it remains a beloved classic of the sci-fi comedy genre.

15. The Mist (2007)

The Mist is a 2007 horror film directed by Frank Darabont and based on the novella of the same name by Stephen King.

The film follows a group of people who become trapped in a small town grocery store after a mysterious mist descends upon the town, bringing with it deadly creatures from another dimension.

The Mist is known for its intense and claustrophobic atmosphere, as well as its exploration of the dark side of human nature.

The film’s use of practical effects and creature design also garnered critical acclaim, with the monsters being praised for their horrifying and otherworldly appearance.

Upon its release, The Mist received mixed reviews from critics but has since developed a cult following. The film’s bleak and unsettling ending has become particularly memorable and has been the subject of much discussion and analysis.

The Mist remains a popular entry in the horror genre and a must-watch for fans of Stephen King’s work.

16. Super 8 (2011)

“Super 8” is a science fiction thriller movie released in 2011, written and directed by J.J. Abrams and produced by Steven Spielberg.

The film is set in 1979 and follows a group of young friends who witness a train crash while filming a homemade Super 8 movie.

After the crash, the group begins to notice strange and unexplainable occurrences happening in their town. They soon discover that the train was carrying an otherworldly creature, and that the U.S. government is covering up its existence.

As the creature continues to wreak havoc, the group must work together to uncover the truth and stop it before it’s too late.

“Super 8” is renowned for its nostalgic and heartfelt portrayal of childhood friendships, as well as its thrilling science fiction plot.

The film’s focus on character development and emotional resonance has made it a favorite among audiences, and its throwback references to classic 80s movies have endeared it to fans of the genre.

The film’s impressive visual effects, as well as its talented cast including Elle Fanning, Joel Courtney, and Kyle Chandler, have also contributed to its success.

Overall, “Super 8” is a thrilling and heartfelt science fiction movie that balances its genre elements with strong character development and emotional depth. Its combination of nostalgia, adventure, and science fiction has made it a beloved movie among audiences of all ages.

17. Transformers (2007)

“Transformers” is a 2007 science fiction action film directed by Michael Bay and based on the popular toy line and animated TV series of the same name. The film stars Shia LaBeouf, Megan Fox, and Josh Duhamel.

The film tells the story of a teenager named Sam Witwicky who discovers that his new car is actually an alien robot known as a Transformer.

As he becomes embroiled in a battle between the heroic Autobots and the evil Decepticons, Sam must help the Autobots find a powerful artifact hidden on Earth that could tip the balance of power in the war between the two factions.

“Transformers” was a commercial success upon its release, grossing over $700 million worldwide.

The film’s groundbreaking visual effects, which brought the iconic Transformers to life on the big screen, were widely praised, and the film spawned a series of sequels and spin-offs.

While some critics criticized the film’s formulaic plot and overreliance on special effects, “Transformers” remains a beloved and influential film for its fans, and is credited with popularizing the “toy-to-film” adaptation trend in Hollywood.

18. Independence Day (1996)

“Independence Day” is a 1996 science fiction film directed by Roland Emmerich and starring Will Smith, Jeff Goldblum, and Bill Pullman.

The film depicts an alien invasion of Earth on the Fourth of July, and follows a group of survivors as they attempt to save humanity from the extraterrestrial threat.

The film is known for its impressive visual effects, particularly in its depiction of massive alien spaceships destroying landmarks and cities around the world.

It also features iconic scenes such as Will Smith’s character punching an alien in the face and delivering the famous line, “Welcome to Earth.”

“Independence Day” was a huge box office success, grossing over $800 million worldwide.

It has since become a cultural phenomenon, and its impact can be seen in the numerous alien invasion films that have followed.

19. Paul (2011)

“Paul” is a science fiction comedy film released in 2011, directed by Greg Mottola and starring Simon Pegg, Nick Frost, and Seth Rogen as the voice of the titular alien character.

The film tells the story of two British comic book nerds who travel to the United States and encounter an alien named Paul, who is on the run from government agents.

One of the key reasons to watch “Paul” is its blend of science fiction and comedy, which makes for a unique and entertaining viewing experience.

The film takes a lighthearted approach to its sci-fi elements, poking fun at classic tropes and embracing a sense of irreverent humor that sets it apart from more serious films in the genre.

Another reason to watch “Paul” is the chemistry between its two lead actors, Simon Pegg and Nick Frost, who have a long history of collaborating on comedic projects.

Their natural rapport and quick-witted banter make for an enjoyable and engaging onscreen dynamic, while Seth Rogen’s voice performance as Paul adds an extra layer of charm and humor.

Finally, “Paul” is a love letter to science fiction and nerd culture, filled with references and Easter eggs that will delight fans of the genre.

From nods to classic films like “Close Encounters of the Third Kind” and “Star Wars” to subtle nods to comic book lore, the film is packed with geeky references and in-jokes that make it a fun and rewarding watch for sci-fi enthusiasts.

Overall, “Paul” is a fun and entertaining sci-fi comedy that offers a fresh and irreverent take on classic genre tropes, while also celebrating the spirit of nerdy fandom that makes science fiction so beloved.

20. Signs (2002)

“Signs” is a 2002 science fiction horror film written and directed by M. Night Shyamalan. The movie follows a former pastor named Graham Hess, played by Mel Gibson, who discovers crop circles on his farm, signaling a potential extraterrestrial invasion.

One of the strengths of “Signs” is its ability to create a sense of fear and tension without relying on gore or jump scares. The film’s slow-building atmosphere and use of sound and music create an eerie and unsettling mood throughout.

The film also explores themes of faith and belief, as Graham grapples with his loss of faith in the wake of his wife’s death. The idea of a higher power and the concept of miracles are central to the plot, adding an additional layer of depth to the story.

The performances in “Signs” are also noteworthy, particularly Mel Gibson’s portrayal of Graham as a man struggling to come to terms with his own mortality and the potential end of the world.

Overall, “Signs” is a masterfully crafted film that effectively blends science fiction and horror with themes of faith and belief. It is a must-watch for fans of the genre, as well as anyone interested in thought-provoking and suspenseful cinema.

21. Chronicle (2012)

“Chronicle” is a 2012 science fiction film directed by Josh Trank and written by Max Landis.

The film follows the story of three high school students, Andrew, Matt, and Steve, who gain telekinetic powers after discovering a mysterious object in a cave.

As the trio learn to control their powers and experiment with their newfound abilities, Andrew’s troubled home life and growing aggression threaten to spiral out of control. The film takes a found footage approach, with the story told through the characters’ video recordings.

“Chronicle” received positive reviews for its fresh take on the superhero genre and its focus on character development. The film was praised for its strong performances, especially from Dane DeHaan as Andrew, and its visual effects.

It was a box office success, grossing over $126 million worldwide against a budget of $12 million. “Chronicle” remains a cult favorite among fans of sci-fi and superhero movies.

22. Mars Attacks! (1996)

Mars Attacks! is a 1996 science fiction comedy film directed by Tim Burton and starring an ensemble cast including Jack Nicholson, Glenn Close, Annette Bening, and Pierce Brosnan.

The film is a satirical take on classic science fiction movies and comic books from the 1950s and 1960s, particularly those involving alien invasions.

Mars Attacks! is known for its over-the-top humor, campy visuals, and quirky characters. The film’s blend of satire and science fiction pays homage to classic B-movies and has been praised for its unique and entertaining style.

Upon its release, Mars Attacks! received mixed reviews from critics and was a box office disappointment, but has since gained a cult following.

The film’s use of practical effects and impressive visual design have been particularly celebrated. With its irreverent take on the alien invasion genre, Mars Attacks! is a fun and entertaining movie for fans of science fiction and comedy.

3 Characteristics of Alien Movies

Here are three characteristics that are commonly associated with alien movies:

Otherworldly beings: Alien movies typically feature beings that come from beyond our world. These beings are often portrayed as having vastly different physical and psychological characteristics than humans, making them mysterious and fascinating subjects of study.

Science fiction elements: Alien movies are typically categorized as science fiction films, as they often involve advanced technology, futuristic settings, and a focus on scientific exploration and discovery.

These elements are often used to explore complex philosophical and social issues, such as the nature of humanity and the consequences of our actions.

Fear and suspense: Many alien movies are known for their tense, suspenseful atmosphere, as they often depict humans being threatened or attacked by otherworldly beings.

This fear is often compounded by the unknown, as the aliens themselves are often shrouded in mystery and their intentions are unclear. As a result, many alien movies are designed to keep audiences on the edge of their seats, waiting to see how the story will unfold.

3 Reasons To Watch Alien Movies

Suspense and Tension: Alien movies often feature intense, suspenseful scenes that keep viewers on the edge of their seats.

From the initial discovery of the alien threat to the dramatic battles between humans and extraterrestrial creatures, these films are known for their ability to create a feeling of unease and tension that keeps audiences engaged from beginning to end.

Exploration of the Unknown: Many alien movies explore the idea of what might exist beyond our planet, and what the consequences might be if we were to encounter life from other worlds.

These films often offer a glimpse into the unknown and challenge our perceptions of what is possible, both in terms of the physical universe and our own understanding of ourselves.

Exploration of Human Nature: In addition to exploring the unknown, many alien movies also examine the human condition and our reactions to extreme situations.

These films often highlight the resilience, ingenuity, and determination of the human spirit in the face of overwhelming adversity, while also exposing our vulnerabilities and flaws.

Alien movies can offer a unique perspective on what it means to be human, and the ways in which we respond to extraordinary circumstances.

Best Alien Movies – Wrap Up

Throughout the years, there have been numerous great alien movies that have captivated audiences and brought extraterrestrial life to the big screen.

From horror to action and everything in between, these films have explored the depths of our imaginations and pushed the boundaries of what we believe is possible.

Some of the best alien movies of all time include “Alien” (1979) and its sequel “Aliens” (1986), “Close Encounters of the Third Kind” (1977), “E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial” (1982), “The Day the Earth Stood Still” (1951), “District 9” (2009), “Invasion of the Body Snatchers” (1956).

“The War of the Worlds” (1953), “Predator” (1987), and “Star Wars” (1977) among many others.

These films have not only entertained audiences, but have also inspired new ways of thinking about our place in the universe and what it means to be human.

Whether through action-packed battles with alien invaders or heartwarming stories of unlikely friendships with ETs, these movies have captured our imaginations and brought us along on incredible journeys to distant worlds.