10 Best Movies About Alien Invasions That You Should Watching Update 04/2024

Movies About Alien Invasions

For a long time, alien invasion movies have been a popular genre cliché. IMDb has compiled a list of the finest alien invasion films to date.

Movies, television shows, and even radio programs have long featured aliens. Furthermore, alien invasion films have long been a part of the public psyche.

A wide variety of methodologies have been used to make these films. While some films depict alien invasions on Earth, others depict aliens destroying the Earth’s infrastructure. There are others who believe that aliens are more empathetic species who are willing to work along with humanity. Then there are those who see aliens as a secretive, intrusive species. It’s a good thing there are so many great alien invasion movies out there, because each method is equally exciting.

1. The World’s End (2013) – 7.0

The World's End (2013)

The World’s End, despite being a comedy, is no different from the best science fiction films in that it uses the genre’s conventions to comment on fundamental human realities.

Edgar Wright’s Cornetto trilogy, which deals with aliens taking over a little English village, has come to an end with this film.

When you return to your hometown as an adult, you may feel a sense of disconnection from your old neighborhood, which is a satire of classic alien takeover movies like Invasion of the Body Snatchers. As if they had been taken over by aliens who had erased their memory, no one remembers you.

2. Independence Day (1996) – 7.0

There are few films on this list that are as exuberantly raucous as Independence Day. People from all walks of life come together on Independence Day to fight off an extraterrestrial invasion that threatens their way of life.

An authentic Roland Emmerich production, complete with stunning demolition shots (such as when the aliens destroy the White House). Irreverent as Independence Day may be, it’s impossible to deny that it is one of the greatest movies ever made.

3. They Live (1988) – 7.3

They Live (1988)

Similarly to The World’s End, They Live is concerned with using an extraterrestrial invasion tale to make a greater point. In this one, it is revealed that aliens have taken over the world’s ruling elite and brainwashed its inhabitants through the media.

One of John Carpenter’s lesser-known films, it made just $13 million at the box office back in 1988. However, in recent years, its popularity has skyrocketed, and it is now considered a cult classic. Many people consider the six-minute brawl between Roddy Piper and Keith David to be one of the best combat scenes in film history.

4. Close Encounters Of The Third Kind (1977) – 7.6

It’s a different kind of invasion film than, say, Close Encounters of the Third Kind.

Despite the fact that aliens do attack Earth and abduct individuals using classic UFOs, they do so without causing any significant harm to humanity. Actually, the human response is to learn how to interact with aliens instead of launching an attack.

You can tell that Steven Spielberg really cares about the characters in this movie, and it’s a beautiful contrast to the more violent and explosive alien invasion films.

5. Invasion Of The Body Snatchers (1956) – 7.7

Invasion Of The Body Snatchers (1956)

Because of its cast and iconic twist ending, the 1956 version of this film is ranked higher on IMDb than the 1978 remake’s 7.4 (compared to the 1978 remake’s 7.4).

A double bill of The Atomic Man and The Body Snatchers is the inspiration for this film. It was widely neglected when it was released, yet it is today considered one of the greatest horror films of all time despite that fact. The word “pod people” was also coined as a colloquial term, and it is still in use today.

6. Predator (1987) – 7.8

Predator is a wonderful amalgamation of an alien invasion thriller, a commentary on jungle guerilla warfare, and 1980s action blockbusters.

It’s not your typical alien invasion film, as the majority of the running time is devoted to the pursuit of humanity through the jungle by a vicious monster. Predator also has only one “alien,” which differentiates it from the other films on this list. The engaging ensemble (headed by Arnold Schwarzenegger), the exotic locale, and Stan Winston’s typically spectacular creature effects make this film a definite classic.

7. District 9 (2009) – 7.9

District 9 (2009)

Neill Blomkamp, who went on to direct Elysium and Chappie, made his directorial debut with the magnificent District 9. In addition to being one of the greatest science fiction pictures ever made, District 9 was acclaimed as one of the greatest directorial debuts in film history.

An alien spacecraft appears in the sky over Johannesburg, and the South African government’s treatment of the aliens follows. Many people interpret the movie as a sci-fi allegory for apartheid because of its overt xenophobic elements.

8. Edge Of Tomorrow (2014) – 7.9

Edge of Tomorrow, also known as Live Die Repeat, appeared out of nowhere. APR officer is enlisted to fight against the aliens in an invasion of France, which serves as a unique combination of an extraterrestrial invasion movie and Groundhog Day. A new life begins at the beginning of the invasion whenever he dies in combat.

For its performances, startling humor, and brilliant screenplay, the film was enthusiastically applauded by critics and audiences alike.

9. The Avengers (2012) – 8.0

The Avengers (2012)

The Avengers is a monumental film, one that exceeded its outrageous expectations and paved the way for a lucrative future for the MCU as a whole. An alien invasion led by Loki was the focus of the film, which brought together a number of well-known superheroes to battle Loki’s henchmen.

It was clearly a huge success, grossing $1.5 billion and receiving tremendous accolades for its acting, writing, inventive premise, and stunning visual effects.

10. The Thing (1982) – 8.1

IMDb rates John Carpenter’s The Thing as the best horror film ever made. Assimilates and “mimics” its victims in this classic horror film about an unknown alien monster. In Antarctica, it attacks a scientific research station, causing the people inside to become irrationally fearful.

The Thing, like They Live, received a Razzie nomination for Worst Score when it was released in 1982. The Thing is today regarded as one of the best (and most horrifying) horror films of all time, thanks to a new generation’s perspective.