Inspired by the UFO abduction classic “Fire in the Sky,” we’ve created a list of 25 UFO movies of abduction, alien invasion, and the uncharted territories of first contact.
“Fire in the Sky” (1993) is a movie about the abduction experience of Travis Walton that captivated the public’s imagination and sparked intense debates about the existence of UFOs. The film contributed to the ongoing fascination with the question of whether we are truly alone in the universe, sparking conversations about the unknown and challenging our collective understanding of the cosmos.
Inspired by this UFO abduction classic “Fire in the Sky,” we’ve compiled a list of 25 UFO movies specifically for UFO enthusiasts.
Whether your a believer, doubter or just curious, these movies will not only entertain, but spark conversation.
So, if you’ve ever found yourself gazing at the stars, wondering if we’re truly alone in the universe, then get ready for this cosmic journey. The truth is out there!
There is a FREE movie checklist you can download to keep track of what you want to see.
Links included below to the where the movies are streaming FREE (where available).
Read to the end for BONUS movies streaming FREE
Don’t forget to download the FREE MOVIE CHECKLIST to keep track of what movies you want to watch!
In “UFO” (2018), college student Derek witnesses a UFO, setting off a chain of events that blur the lines between reality and the extraterrestrial. As Derek grapples with strange visions, the film weaves a compelling narrative, merging sci-fi intrigue with a quest for the truth.
“Dark Skies” (2013) ventures into the supernatural shadows that fall upon the Barrett family. Unexplained phenomena turn their suburban life into a harrowing experience. This horror infused sci-fi film takes you on a journey through the uncharted territories of extraterrestrial mysteries, leaving you questioning the boundaries between the known and the unknown.
In Spielberg’s “War of the Worlds” (2005), Earth faces a relentless alien invasion. Tom Cruise navigates the chaos, providing a front row seat to a blockbuster blend of action and extraterrestrial mayhem. The film taps into the fear of the unknown, exploring the resilience of humanity in the face of cosmic threats.
J.J. Abrams’ “Super 8” (2011) transports us to a small town where a group of kids inadvertently captures more than they bargained for on their Super 8 camera. What starts as a filmmaking adventure spirals into a riveting mystery involving a train derailment and extraterrestrial secrets. It’s a nostalgic trip with a sci-fi twist.
5. The McPherson Tape (1989)
Director: Dean Alioto
Cast: Tommy Giavocchini, Patrick Kelley, Shirly McCalla
“The McPherson Tape” (1989) unfolds like a family video gone awry. A seemingly ordinary reunion is interrupted when aliens make an unexpected appearance. This found footage gem captures the essence of ’80s charm and introduces us to the McPherson family’s brush with extraterrestrial visitors. It’s a raw and suspenseful take on the classic UFO encounter narrative.
“The Fourth Kind” (2009) is a chilling exploration of alien abductions, blending dramatic reenactments with supposedly real footage. Milla Jovovich takes us on a psychological journey, blurring the lines between fact and fiction. Its about the unexplained phenomena that haunt the town of Nome, Alaska.
7. Communion (1989)
Director: Philippe Mora
Cast: Christopher Walken, Lindsay Crouse, Frances Sternhagen
“Communion” (1989) offers a glimpse into the personal experiences of author Whitley Strieber, portrayed by Christopher Walken. This biographical drama delves into Strieber’s encounters with otherworldly entities, bringing an eerie authenticity to the exploration of extraterrestrial contact.
“Extraterrestrial” (2014) takes a classic cabin in the woods scenario and adds an intergalactic twist. As a group of friends’ romantic getaway is interrupted by unwelcome visitors, the film unfolds as a suspenseful horror experience with a sprinkle of sci-fi.
“District 9” (2009) offers a fresh perspective on alien encounters, setting the stage in a segregated society where extraterrestrial refugees find themselves on Earth. Blending social commentary with intense action, the film challenges traditional sci-fi narratives, exploring themes of prejudice and the unexpected consequences of first contact.
“Elysium” (2013) catapults us into a dystopian future where the privileged reside on a luxurious space station, leaving Earth in squalor. Matt Damon takes on the system in a high stakes quest for equality. Blomkamp’s signature style delivers a provocative drama, exploring societal divides and the quest for a better world.
11. Dark City (1998)
Director: Alex Proyas
Cast: Rufus Sewell, Kiefer Sutherland, Jennifer Connelly
“Dark City” (1998) immerses us in a neo noir landscape where amnesiac John Murdoch navigates a city that shifts and morphs every night. Alex Proyas crafts a visually stunning mind bender, combining elements of mystery and sci-fi. Its a labyrinth that challenges perceptions and blurs the boundaries between reality and imagination.
12. The Vast of Night (2019)
Director: Andrew Patterson
Cast: Sierra McCormick, Jake Horowitz, Gail Cronauer
“The Vast of Night” (2019) transports us to 1950s New Mexico, where a mysterious audio frequency disrupts the quiet night. Andrew Patterson’s directorial debut is a slow burning, atmospheric gem that pays homage to classic sci-fi. With its unique narrative style and small town charm, it’s a movie that lingers in the mind.
Nope is a sci-fi horror film from the mind of Jordan Peele, who also directed Get Out and Us. The film stars Daniel Kaluuya and Keke Palmer as horse wrangling siblings who witness a mysterious cloud hovering over their town. They soon discover that the cloud is hiding an alien threat that has a sinister agenda.
“Taken” (2002), a mini series produced by Steven Spielberg, unfolds across multiple generations, chronicling the Keys family’s experiences with extraterrestrial phenomena. Blending family drama with sci-fi intrigue, the narrative weaves a captivating tapestry of abductions, government secrets, and the enduring quest for the truth.
15. Skyline (2010)
Directors: Colin Strause, Greg Strause
Cast: Eric Balfour, Donald Faison, Scottie Thompson
“Skyline” (2010) thrusts us into an alien invasion of epic proportions. The film blends intense visuals with an unfolding cataclysm as humanity faces the threat from above. Survival hangs in the balance, and the fate of Earth rests on the shoulders of those who look up to the skies.
“Arrival” (2016) is a cerebral exploration of language, time, and extraterrestrial encounters. Denis Villeneuve crafts a narrative that transcends traditional sci-fi tropes, led by Amy Adams’ captivating performance. The film challenges our perceptions, leaving us pondering the intricacies of communication and the mysteries that lie beyond our understanding.
17. Close Encounters of the Third Kind (1977)
Director: Steven Spielberg
Cast: Richard Dreyfuss, François Truffaut, Teri Garr
Steven Spielberg’s “Close Encounters of the Third Kind” (1977) is a cinematic symphony of lights and sounds. The film follows Richard Dreyfuss as he unravels the mysteries of communication with extraterrestrial beings. It’s a classic exploration of first contact, blending awe inspiring visuals with the emotional resonance of our shared curiosity about the cosmos.
John Carpenter’s “They Live” (1988) injects a healthy dose of social commentary into the sci-fi genre. With the discovery of special sunglasses, Roddy Piper’s character unveils a hidden reality controlled by extraterrestrial forces. This cult classic is a unique blend of action, horror, and satire, with a commentary on the human condition.
“Edge of Tomorrow” (2014) is a sci-fi action rollercoaster with a time loop twist. Tom Cruise, alongside Emily Blunt, battles alien invaders in a relentless loop of warfare. Doug Liman’s film combines humor, intense battles, and a unique take on the genre.
In “Lifeforce” (1985), Tobe Hooper takes vampires to space, creating a cosmic horror experience. The film is a bizarre blend of Dracula mythology and alien encounters, exploring the consequences of unearthing extraterrestrial secrets. Its a unique sci-fi horror that defies conventional genre boundaries.
21. The X-Files: Fight the Future (1998)
Director: Rob Bowman
Cast: David Duchovny, Gillian Anderson, Mitch Pileggi
Taking Mulder and Scully from the small screen to the big screen, “The X-Files: Fight the Future” (1998) dives into a conspiracy that stretches far beyond their previous investigations. It blends suspense, government cover ups, and the quintessential chemistry of our favorite FBI agents, offering a must see extension of the iconic series.
In “Monsters” (2010), Gareth Edwards crafts a unique love story against the backdrop of an alien infested world. This indie gem blends romance, suspense, and extraterrestrial intrigue, offering a fresh take on the consequences of living in a world touched by otherworldly creatures.
“Hangar 18” (1980) ventures into government secrets and crashed UFOs, embodying the essence of ’70s sci-fi adventure. James L. Conway’s film explores the intrigue surrounding extraterrestrial technology, weaving a narrative that combines mystery, action, and the classic theme of government cover ups.
24. Altered (2006)
Director: Eduardo Sánchez
Cast: Adam Kaufman, Catherine Mangan, Brad William Henke
“Altered” (2006) is a horror movie with a distinct extraterrestrial twist. Eduardo Sánchez, the mind behind “The Blair Witch Project,” takes us on a suspenseful ride as a group of friends seeks revenge on the aliens that once abducted them.
25. The Arrival (1996)
Director: David Twohy
Cast: Charlie Sheen, Lindsay Crouse, Richard Schiff
Charlie Sheen stars in “The Arrival” (1996), a ’90s sci-fi thriller that delivers paranoia and government intrigue in equal measure. David Twohy’s film follows a scientist uncovering an extraterrestrial conspiracy, creating a tale that keeps audiences guessing until the very end. It unfolds like a classic conspiracy thriller.
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Tiffany is a female entrepreneur who has been in the movie business since 2005.
She loves all things horror! Movies, Books, Magazines, Podcasts and Film Festivals. *****
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