âAre aliens real? It’s a question that mankind has pondered since ancient times. Despite generations of people claiming to have encountered alien beings, there’s still no definitive proof that extraterrestrials exist. But that hasn’t stopped Hollywood from exploring the mysteries and possibilities of alien life on the big screen. Alien movies are a fascinating genre that continues to captivate moviegoers to this day.
This article will examine some of the greatest alien movies of all-time. From dark and brooding creature features to humorous encounters with alien species, you’ll find something to suit every flavor of sci-fi fan. So, grab your popcorn and join us for a cinematic exploration of alien life.
What Is an Alien Movie?
At its simplest, an alien movie is a film featuring non-human creatures from other planets or galaxies. These extraterrestrials may be peaceful visitors or hostile predators, searching for a new home or eager to conquer the human race.
The genre of alien movies encompasses science fiction, horror, and suspense. Often they feature a battle of wills with mankind attempting to save itself from certain annihilation. They can be gripping thrillers, filled with tension and surprise, or heartfelt dramas exploring the implications of alien contact. Drawing on humanity’s fascination with the unknown, alien movies have become one of the most beloved and enduring genres in the film industry.
The 20 Greatest Alien Movies: Picking the Very Best
From gripping suspense to lighthearted adventure, alien movies have been thrilling audiences for decades. As technology advances, filmmakers are able to create more enticing special effects and lifelike aliens.
Here are the 20 greatest alien movies that are sure to spark the imagination:
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Close Encounters of the Third Kind (1977).
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Aliens (1986).
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Predator (1987).
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E.T. The Extra Terrestrial (1982).
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Planet of the Apes (1968).
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The Day the Earth Stood Still (1951).
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War of the Worlds (2005).
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The Thing (1982).
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Signs (2002).
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The Fifth Element (1997).
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Men in Black (1997).
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Quatermass and the Pit (1967).
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Galaxy Quest (1999).
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The Blob (1958).
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Attack the Block (2011).
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Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan (1982).
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District 9 (2009).
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The War of the Worlds (1953).
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District B13 (2004).
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Cowboys & Aliens (2011).
Analysis of the Best Alien Movies
Close Encounters of the Third Kind (1977)
Widely acclaimed for its special effects and groundbreaking music score, Close Encounters of the Third Kind remains one of the defining examples of the alien movie genre. Directed by Steven Spielberg, the film follows the head of a family who witnesses the arrival of a spaceship and engages in a journey of discovery and contact.
Aliens (1986)
This sequel to Ridley Scott’s Alien takes the premise of the first film and turns it into an even darker and more suspenseful experience. Aliens features some of the most effective horror and special effects in the genre, and an unforgettable performance by Sigourney Weaver as Ellen Ripley.
Predator (1987)
An all-star cast, led by Arnold Schwarzenegger, hunt for an extraterrestrial creature in this classic action thriller. Predator is bloody, intense, and action-packed, and its titular monster has become one of the most famous movie aliens of all-time.
E.T. The Extra Terrestrial (1982)
Another Spielberg masterpiece, E.T. is the bittersweet story of a young boy befriending an alien and then struggling to help it return to its planet. Like Close Encounters, E.T. is an uplifting and emotional sci-fi adventure, but with a much lighter tone.
Themes in Alien Movies
Humankind’s fascination with alien life has been explored in films throughout the decades. Some of the most common themes found in alien movies include:
• Human–alien conflict: The movies often explore mankind’s potential to repel and even destroy an alien threat. Films like War of the Worlds, Aliens, and Predator feature bitter battles between humans and aliens.
• Alien invasion: This is a popular trope in the genre. A mysterious species invades Earth and humans must band together and use their ingenuity to save their planet. War of the Worlds, The Day the Earth Stood Still, and Signs are some examples.
• Contact with aliens: It’s a common theme to explore a peaceful connection between human beings and an alien species. Films such as Close Encounters of the Third Kind, ET. The Extra-Terrestrial, Galaxy Quest, and Men in Black have taken this approach.
• Symbiosis with aliens: A lesser-used theme, this idea is the notion that the Earth and its inhabitants form a symbiotic bond with extraterrestrials. Instead of destroying each other, they strive to live side by side. The Fifth Element, Planet of the Apes, and Cowboys & Aliens are notable examples.
Alien movies have captivated audiences with their themes of exploration, adventure and humanity’s tenacity in the face of danger. From thrilling alien invasions to heartwarming encounters with extraterrestrial creatures, these films have offered us a glimpse into a world that isn’t our own. So sit back and enjoy a journey into the unknown with these 20 greatest alien movies.
