Best Sci Fi Movies About Space

From Christopher Nolan, starring Matthew McConaughey, Anne Hathaway, Jessica Chastain, Mackenzie Foy
Rated PG-13

Interstellar is a 2014 science-fiction epic directed by Christopher Nolan. The film follows a team of explorers, led by former NASA pilot Cooper (Matthew McConaughey), on a mission to travel through a wormhole in search of a new home for humanity. After discovering a potentially habitable exoplanet, the team must battle time and the forces of nature to ensure humanity's survival. Along the way, they must confront challenges and make difficult decisions that will affect the future of the human race. Along with McConaughey, the all-star cast includes Anne Hathaway, Jessica Chastain, Michael Caine, Matt Damon, and Ellen Burstyn. The film won an Academy Award for Best Visual Effects and was nominated for five more, including Best Picture.

From Ridley Scott, starring Sigourney Weaver, Tom Skerritt, John Hurt, Veronica Cartwright
Rated R

Alien is a science-fiction horror film directed by Ridley Scott and released in 1979. The film follows a space crew aboard the commercial towing spaceship Nostromo who, while responding to a distress call on a remote planet, unwittingly become host to an extraterrestrial lifeform that begins to kill off the crew. The crew, led by officer Dallas (Tom Skerritt), consists of executive officer Kane (John Hurt), navigator Lambert (Veronica Cartwright), engineers Brett (Harry Dean Stanton) and Parker (Yaphet Kotto), and science officer Ash (Ian Holm). After responding to a distress signal, the crew discovers the derelict alien ship on the remote planet and brings on board an alien organism they believe to be a lifeform. The alien creature begins to kill crew members one by one, pushing the survivors to their limits as they fight to survive and destroy the deadly creature. In the end, warrant officer Ripley (Sigourney Weaver) is the only survivor, and she manages to destroy the creature by activating the ship's self-destruct sequence.

From Stanley Kubrick, starring Keir Dullea, Gary Lockwood, William Sylvester, Daniel Richter
Rated G

2001: A Space Odyssey is a science fiction film directed by Stanley Kubrick, based on the novel by Arthur C. Clarke. The film follows a voyage to Jupiter with the sentient computer HAL after the discovery of a mysterious black monolith affecting human evolution. It deals with themes of existentialism, human evolution, technology, artificial intelligence, and the possibility of extraterrestrial life. The visuals, sound effects, and music are highly influential and have been widely imitated. 2001: A Space Odyssey was a critical and commercial success, and is widely regarded as one of the most influential films of all time.

From Ridley Scott, starring Harrison Ford, Rutger Hauer, Sean Young, Edward James Olmos
Rated R

Blade Runner is a 1982 science fiction film directed by Ridley Scott and starring Harrison Ford. It is loosely based on Philip K. Dick's novel Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep? The film follows Rick Deckard, a former police officer in a dystopian future in which genetically engineered replicants—artificial humanoids—are manufactured by the powerful Tyrell Corporation. Deckard is tasked with hunting down and killing four escaped replicants who are hiding on the Earth's surface and trying to extend their lives. Along the way, Deckard struggles with his own identity and morality as he discovers the true nature of the replicants. The film is widely considered a classic for its thought-provoking visuals, its groundbreaking special effects, and its exploration of themes such as the nature of humanity, free will, and the morality of technology.

From Andrei Tarkovsky, starring Natalya Bondarchuk, Donatas Banionis, Jüri Järvet, Vladislav Dvorzhetskiy
Rated PG

Solaris is a 1972 science fiction film directed by Andrei Tarkovsky. It is based on the novel of the same name by Stanisław Lem. The film follows psychoanalyst Kris Kelvin (Donatas Banionis) as he travels to the distant planet Solaris to investigate the mysterious phenomena occurring on a scientific space station orbiting the planet. Upon arriving, he finds the station in disarray and the crew affected by strange and unexplainable events. As he delves deeper into the mysteries of Solaris, he discovers that the planet's ocean is a conscious, thinking entity with its own mind, capable of manifesting the repressed thoughts and feelings of those who come in contact with it. In the end, Kelvin is faced with a difficult decision—to stay on Solaris and attempt to understand its power, or return to Earth and the life he once knew.

From James Gunn, starring Chris Pratt, Vin Diesel, Bradley Cooper, Zoe Saldana
Rated PG-13

Guardians of the Galaxy is a 2014 American superhero film based on the Marvel Comics superhero team of the same name. The film is directed by James Gunn and stars Chris Pratt, Zoe Saldana, Dave Bautista, Vin Diesel, Bradley Cooper, Lee Pace, Michael Rooker, Karen Gillan, Djimon Hounsou, John C. Reilly, Glenn Close, and Benicio del Toro. The film follows a group of intergalactic criminals who must band together to save the universe from a powerful enemy. Peter Quill, an earthling abducted by aliens as a child, forms a ragtag team of misfits who ultimately become known as the Guardians of the Galaxy. Along the way, they must fight off a variety of enemies, including Ronan the Accuser, while also unraveling the mysterious past of Peter Quill. In the end, the Guardians of the Galaxy must find the strength to come together and save the universe.

From Ridley Scott, starring Matt Damon, Jessica Chastain, Kristen Wiig, Kate Mara
Rated PG-13

The Martian is a 2015 science fiction film directed by Ridley Scott and based on Andy Weir's 2011 novel of the same name. The film follows the story of astronaut Mark Watney, played by Matt Damon, who is accidentally left behind on Mars during an aborted mission. Watney must rely on his knowledge and resourcefulness to survive the hostile conditions of the planet. With the help of his crew mates and NASA, Watney embarks on an epic mission to return home and reunite with his family. Along the way, he faces numerous obstacles, must battle his own self-doubt, and form a bond with the team that left him behind. In the end, Watney’s courage and determination prove triumphant as he succeeds in his mission and returns to Earth.

From J.J. Abrams, starring Chris Pine, Zachary Quinto, Simon Pegg, Leonard Nimoy
Rated PG-13

Star Trek (2009) is the eleventh feature film in the Star Trek franchise and was directed by J.J. Abrams. The movie follows James T. Kirk (Chris Pine) and Spock (Zachary Quinto) as they journey to save the universe from the Romulan Nero (Eric Bana) and his mission of vengeance. Along the way, they form an unlikely yet formidable alliance with familiar characters such as Scotty (Simon Pegg), Bones (Karl Urban), Uhura (Zoe Saldana), Sulu (John Cho), and Chekov (Anton Yelchin). The two opposing forces battle for control of the universe, as the crew of the USS Enterprise embarks on its most daring mission yet. Through their adventures, the crew learns to embrace their differences and come together to save the galaxy.

From Duncan Jones, starring Sam Rockwell, Kevin Spacey, Dominique McElligott, Rosie Shaw
Rated R

Moon (2009) is a science fiction film directed by Duncan Jones and starring Sam Rockwell. In the film, Rockwell plays Sam Bell, an astronaut who is nearing the end of a three-year contract as the sole operator of a lunar mining facility. While working, Sam begins to experience strange visions and hallucinations, and soon discovers that the base is harboring some strange secrets. It turns out that the base is actually a cloning facility and he is a clone of himself, created to keep the base running while the original Sam Bell returns to Earth to reunite with his wife and daughter. With the help of Gerty, the base's artificially intelligent computer, Sam must find a way to escape and make his way home, as he attempts to uncover the truth about the mysterious company that has been controlling his life.

From Andrew Niccol, starring Ethan Hawke, Uma Thurman, Jude Law, Gore Vidal
Rated PG-13

Gattaca is a 1997 science fiction film set in a future where genetic engineering has become the norm. The protagonist, Vincent, is born with a rare genetic disorder, and is thus discriminated against due to his "inferior" genes. In order to pursue his dream of becoming an astronaut, he assumes the identity of a man with a perfect genetic makeup, and begins the process of becoming an astronaut without anyone knowledge. Along the way, he encounters a variety of obstacles, including suspicions from his employers, and a murder investigation that centers around him. Ultimately, Vincent is able to overcome the odds and fulfill his dream of being an astronaut. The film explores themes of prejudice, ambition, and the power of the human spirit in the face of adversity.

From Joss Whedon, starring Nathan Fillion, Gina Torres, Chiwetel Ejiofor, Alan Tudyk
Rated PG-13

Serenity is an action-packed science fiction film directed by Joss Whedon and starring Nathan Fillion, Gina Torres, and Chiwetel Ejiofor. The story follows the crew of the smuggling ship Serenity, who are on the run from a ruthless government organization known as the Alliance. The Alliance is pursuing them because they possess a mysterious girl named River, who has unusual psychic abilities. With the Alliance agents hot on their heels, the crew of Serenity must work together to protect River and outwit their pursuers. Along the way, they uncover a deadly secret that could spell disaster for all involved. Filled with thrilling action sequences and intense, character-driven moments, Serenity is an exciting space adventure that stands as a must-see for fans of sci-fi.

From Gareth Edwards, starring Felicity Jones, Diego Luna, Alan Tudyk, Donnie Yen
Rated PG-13

Rogue One: A Star Wars Story is a 2016 American space opera film directed by Gareth Edwards. It is the first stand-alone Star Wars anthology film, set immediately before the events of the original 1977 Star Wars film. The story follows a group of Rebel Alliance fighters on a mission to steal the plans to the Empire's new weapon, the Death Star. The group is led by Jyn Erso, a young woman whose father, Galen, is responsible for helping the Empire develop the deadly weapon. Along the way, the group faces numerous obstacles as they fight against a powerful Empire and attempt to complete their mission. The film stars Felicity Jones, Diego Luna, Ben Mendelsohn, Donnie Yen, Jiang Wen, Mads Mikkelsen, Alan Tudyk, Riz Ahmed, and Forest Whitaker. Rogue One: A Star Wars Story was released to critical acclaim and grossed over $1 billion worldwide, becoming the highest-grossing film of 2016.

From Ron Howard, starring Tom Hanks, Bill Paxton, Kevin Bacon, Gary Sinise
Rated PG

Apollo 13 is a 1995 American historical drama film directed by Ron Howard and starring Tom Hanks, Kevin Bacon, Bill Paxton, Gary Sinise and Ed Harris. The film is based on the real-life Apollo 13 mission and stars Hanks as astronaut Jim Lovell, Bacon as Jack Swigert, Paxton as Fred Haise, Sinise as Ken Mattingly and Harris as Gene Kranz. The film follows the ill-fated Apollo 13 lunar mission in April 1970. After a routine mid-mission explosion, the astronauts struggle to make it back to Earth alive. With the help of Mission Control, the astronauts must find a way to survive the perilous journey, relying on their wits and the tenacity of their team to get them home safely. The film was both a commercial and critical success, receiving nine Academy Award nominations, including Best Picture and Best Director, and winning two awards. The film's success has made it an enduring part of popular culture, and its iconic lines have become part of the lexicon of modern American film.

From Alfonso Cuarón, starring Sandra Bullock, George Clooney, Ed Harris, Orto Ignatiussen
Rated PG-13

Gravity is a science fiction film directed by Alfonso Cuarón in 2013. The story follows two astronauts (Sandra Bullock and George Clooney) who are stranded in space after the destruction of their shuttle while on a space mission. With limited air, supplies and time, the two must find a way to survive and make it back to Earth. Along the way, they face the violent force of gravity, extreme temperatures, and the psychological toll of being alone in the vastness of space. The film is a thrilling journey of survival, courage, and the determination to never give up, no matter the odds.

From J.J. Abrams, starring Chris Pine, Zachary Quinto, Zoe Saldana, Benedict Cumberbatch
Rated PG-13

Star Trek Into Darkness is a 2013 science fiction action film directed by J.J. Abrams. It is the twelfth installment in the Star Trek film franchise and the sequel to the 2009 film Star Trek. The film follows the crew of the Starship Enterprise, led by Captain James T. Kirk and his first officer, Spock, as they respond to a threat from within the Federation. When a powerful force from within the organization threatens the survival of Earth and the future of the Federation, Kirk and his crew must embark on a mission to capture and bring the man responsible to justice. Along the way, they encounter a formidable new enemy, the mysterious John Harrison, who has a secret agenda that could put an end to the Federation. With the help of the Enterprise crew, Kirk must find a way to stop Harrison before his plan of destruction comes to fruition.

From Luc Besson, starring Bruce Willis, Milla Jovovich, Gary Oldman, Ian Holm
Rated PG-13

The Fifth Element is a sci-fi action movie set in the year 2257. It follows the story of Korben Dallas (Bruce Willis), a retired military major and taxi driver, who is enlisted by an ancient priest to save the world from the forces of evil. When a deadly weapon called the "Divine Light" is stolen, it is up to Korben to recover it and use it to stop an impending invasion from a malevolent race of aliens called the Mangalores. Along the way, Korben is aided by the mysterious Leeloo (Milla Jovovich), a genetically engineered "Supreme Being" sent to help him save the world. As they battle their way through the city, they must also confront their own inner demons in order to prevail against their enemies. In the end, the two must join forces and use their combined powers to activate the Fifth Element, a powerful weapon that can defeat the Mangalores and restore peace to the universe.

From James Gunn, starring Chris Pratt, Zoe Saldana, Dave Bautista, Vin Diesel
Rated PG-13

Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2 is the follow-up to the 2014 hit film, and follows the team of misfits as they continue to safeguard the universe. When the Guardians uncover the mystery behind Peter Quill's true parentage, Peter must struggle with the thought of being part of a family he never knew he had. Along the way, the Guardians encounter a variety of new creatures and adversaries, some of which threaten to tear the group apart. With the help of old friends and new allies, the Guardians must fight to keep their newfound family together as they unravel the mysteries of Peter Quill's past.

From Robert Zemeckis, starring Jodie Foster, Matthew McConaughey, Tom Skerritt, John Hurt
Rated PG

Contact is a science fiction drama directed by Robert Zemeckis and starring Jodie Foster, Matthew McConaughey, and James Woods. The film follows Dr. Eleanor "Ellie" Arroway, a SETI scientist who is trying to prove the existence of extraterrestrial life after receiving a message from space. After a great deal of doubt from her peers, she succeeds in building a machine that will allow her to make contact with the aliens. She is then chosen to be the one to make the journey, but things do not go as planned. Along the way, she discovers a great deal about the universe, humanity, and faith. The film is a thought-provoking exploration of the possibilities of contact with other life forms and the power of belief.

From Damien Chazelle, starring Ryan Gosling, Claire Foy, Jason Clarke, Kyle Chandler
Rated PG-13

From Danny Boyle, starring Cillian Murphy, Rose Byrne, Chris Evans, Cliff Curtis
Rated R

From David Twohy, starring Radha Mitchell, Cole Hauser, Vin Diesel, Keith David
Rated R

From Ridley Scott, starring Noomi Rapace, Logan Marshall-Green, Michael Fassbender, Charlize Theron
Rated R

From Christian Alvart, starring Dennis Quaid, Ben Foster, Cam Gigandet, Antje Traue
Rated R

From Paul W.S. Anderson, starring Laurence Fishburne, Sam Neill, Kathleen Quinlan, Joely Richardson
Rated R

From Neill Blomkamp, starring Matt Damon, Jodie Foster, Sharlto Copley, Alice Braga
Rated R