Aliens have always been a fascinating and terrifying subject to me personally and in the world of horror movies. I remember my first horror movie theater experience like it was yesterday. My cousin and I went to see M. Night Shyamalan’s Signs back in 2002, and the moment of the alien popping out of the bushes at the birthday party scared the sh*t out of me. The image is now permanently seared into my brain and jump-started my interest in horror movies about aliens.
These extraterrestrial beings often bring a sense of the unknown, blending sci-fi and horror to create films that are as thrilling as they are unsettling. While classics like Alien and The Thing dominate the genre, I will not be including those in this list. There are many other alien horror movies that deserve your attention. In this article, I highlight 10 must-watch alien horror films- some well-known, some a bit more obscure- offering a mix of suspense, terror, and extraterrestrial intrigue.
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If you’re looking to get spooked tonight, here are the best horror movies streaming on Netflix. If gaming is more your thing, check out these scary multiplayer and crossplay horror games.
Table of Contents
The Faculty (1998)
The Faculty is a cult classic alien horror film that takes the familiar high school setting and turns it into a battleground for alien invasion. Set at Harrington High, the film follows a group of students who discover that their teachers are being taken over by extraterrestrial forces. The students must band together to uncover the truth and save their school from the alien threat.
What makes The Faculty stand out is its star-studded cast, including Josh Hartnett, Elijah Wood, and Salma Hayek, among others. The screenplay, written by Kevin Williamson of Scream fame, blends horror with satirical elements, making it a unique entry in the genre. Despite its initial lack of commercial success, The Faculty has gained a cult following over the years, celebrated for its mix of horror, humor, and social commentary.
The Fourth Kind (2009)
Set in the remote town of Nome, Alaska, The Fourth Kind delves into the chilling world of alien abductions. The film follows Dr. Abigail Tyler, played by Milla Jovovich, a psychologist who begins to notice that several of her patients are experiencing similar, bizarre occurrences, all revolving around sightings of mysterious owls. As she digs deeper, she uncovers a disturbing pattern that suggests something far more sinister is at play.
The Fourth Kind stands out for its unique storytelling approach, mixing real footage with dramatized reenactments. This blend creates a pseudo-documentary feel that keeps the audience on edge, blurring the line between fiction and reality. Although the film’s claims of being based on true events have been debunked, its eerie atmosphere and unsettling narrative continue to make it a compelling watch for fans of psychological horror.
Under the Skin (2013)
Under the Skin is a haunting and surreal exploration of alien life on Earth, starring Scarlett Johansson as an extraterrestrial entity in human form. The film follows her as she drives around Scotland, seducing unsuspecting men and luring them into a trap where they meet a mysterious and horrifying fate. Unlike conventional alien horror films, Under the Skin focuses more on the alien’s perspective, offering a chilling insight into what it means to be human—or not.
This film is a departure from typical alien horror, embracing a minimalist and avant-garde style that is both mesmerizing and deeply unsettling. The sparse dialogue, hypnotic visuals, and unsettling score by Mica Levi create an atmosphere of unease that lingers long after the credits roll. Under the Skin challenges the viewer’s perception of horror, making it a unique and unforgettable experience in the genre.
Nope (2022)
Nope is a recent addition to the alien horror genre, directed by Jordan Peele. The film follows siblings OJ and Emerald, played by Daniel Kaluuya and Keke Palmer, who are trying to keep their family’s horse ranch afloat in a rural part of California. However, they soon encounter mysterious and unsettling occurrences in the sky, leading them to believe they are dealing with a UFO. Instead of fleeing, they decide to investigate and capture evidence of the phenomenon, leading to a suspenseful and thrilling narrative.
Jordan Peele, known for his masterful blend of horror and social commentary, uses Nope to explore themes of spectacle, exploitation, and the human desire to uncover the unknown. The film’s cinematography is striking, creating a dreamlike yet terrifying atmosphere. Peele draws inspiration from classic films like King Kong, Jurassic Park, and Close Encounters of the Third Kind, crafting a visually stunning and thought-provoking film that reinvents the alien horror genre.
Man Vs. (2015)
Man Vs. is a hidden gem in the alien horror genre that combines survival thriller elements with extraterrestrial horror. The film stars Chris Diamantopoulos as Doug Woods, a survival expert and TV show host who ventures into the Canadian wilderness to film his latest episode. However, things take a dark turn when he realizes he is not alone and is being stalked by an unseen, otherworldly presence.
Presented in a found-footage style, Man Vs. effectively builds tension and suspense as Doug navigates the wilderness, unaware of the true nature of the threat he faces. The film’s premise is simple yet effective, playing on the fear of the unknown and the isolation of the wilderness. While the CGI might not be top-tier, the film’s strong atmosphere and engaging plot make it a worthwhile watch for fans of survival tv shows and horror movies about aliens.
Altered (2006)
Altered offers a gritty and intense take on the alien abduction genre. The film follows a group of friends who were abducted by aliens 15 years prior and are now seeking revenge. They manage to capture one of the aliens responsible and hold it captive in a basement, but their plan quickly goes awry as the alien proves to be far more dangerous than they anticipated.
Directed by Eduardo Sánchez, co-director of The Blair Witch Project, Altered is a low-budget horror film that relies heavily on practical effects rather than CGI, giving it a raw and visceral feel. The film explores themes of trauma and revenge, wrapped in a suspenseful narrative that keeps viewers on edge. Its DIY horror approach and tense atmosphere make Altered a standout in the genre, especially for fans of independent horror films.
Dark Skies (2013)
Dark Skies tells the story of the Barrett family, whose peaceful suburban life is shattered by a series of increasingly disturbing events. As strange occurrences escalate, they begin to realize that their family is being targeted by a malevolent extraterrestrial force. The film follows their desperate attempts to protect their children and uncover the truth behind the terrifying phenomena.
Directed by Scott Stewart, Dark Skies excels at building tension and creating a pervasive sense of dread. The film relies less on jump scares and more on a slow-burning sense of paranoia, making the viewer feel as if something is always lurking just out of sight. The practical effects used to depict the aliens are subtle yet effective, adding to the unsettling atmosphere. With its strong performances and a focus on psychological horror, Dark Skies is a must-watch for those who enjoy suspenseful alien horror films.
Invasion of the Body Snatchers (1978)
Invasion of the Body Snatchers is a remake of the 1956 classic, and it takes the concept of alien invasion to a terrifying new level. The film is set in San Francisco, where Matthew Bennell, played by Donald Sutherland, begins to notice that people around him are acting strangely. As he investigates further, he discovers that aliens are replacing humans with emotionless duplicates, leading to a widespread conspiracy that threatens the entire population
This version of Invasion of the Body Snatchers is widely regarded as one of the best remakes in horror history. Its themes of paranoia and distrust resonate strongly, reflecting the anxieties of the time in which it was made. The film’s iconic scenes, such as the chilling pointing and screeching moment, have become ingrained in popular culture. The combination of strong performances, especially by Leonard Nimoy and Jeff Goldblum, and masterful direction makes this film a quintessential entry in the alien horror genre.
No One Will Save You (2023)
No One Will Save You is a modern take on the alien home invasion genre. The film follows Brynn, a young woman played by Kaitlyn Dever, who lives alone in her childhood home after being ostracized by her community. One night, she finds herself facing a terrifying intruder—an alien that has broken into her house. As she fights to survive, Brynn must also confront the emotional and psychological trauma that has shaped her isolated existence.
This 2023 release is notable for its minimal use of dialogue, relying instead on visual storytelling and suspense to convey its narrative. Directed by Brian Duffield, the film blends elements of horror and thriller, offering a fresh perspective on the alien invasion trope. While the PG-13 rating might make it more accessible to younger audiences, the film still delivers on tension and atmosphere. The unique creature design and the protagonist’s harrowing journey make No One Will Save You a memorable addition to the genre.
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Fire in the Sky (1993)
Fire in the Sky is based on the true story of Travis Walton, who allegedly experienced an alien abduction in 1975. The film follows Walton and his group of loggers working in the Arizona wilderness when they encounter a mysterious UFO. Walton investigates the strange light and disappears, leaving his friends to explain the inexplicable event to the authorities. Walton’s reappearance days later leads to more questions than answers, as he recounts a harrowing tale of his abduction.
Fire in the Sky has earned a cult following, particularly for its infamous abduction scene, which is often cited as one of the most terrifying depictions of alien encounters in film. While the real Travis Walton has expressed dissatisfaction with the movie’s portrayal of his experience, the film’s gripping narrative and unsettling atmosphere make it a standout in the alien horror genre. The mix of suspense, drama, and sci-fi elements creates a compelling and eerie viewing experience that has left a lasting impression on audiences.
Now that I’ve finished this post, I’m itching for more extraterrestrial horror. Excuse me while I go watch Apollo 18 real quick.
What are your favorite horror movies about aliens? What are you doing this weekend to keep it a spooky one? See you guys in the next post.
Cameron
FAQs
What makes alien horror movies different from other horror genres?
Alien horror movies combine elements of science fiction with traditional horror, focusing on the fear of the unknown and the potential threats from extraterrestrial beings. This blend creates unique narratives that explore themes like invasion, abduction, and the terror of encountering life forms beyond our understanding.
Why are some horror movies about aliens based on alleged real events?
Films like The Fourth Kind and Fire in the Sky claim to be based on real events to add an extra layer of fear and authenticity. This approach can make the story more relatable and chilling for the audience, blurring the line between fiction and reality.
Are practical effects or CGI more effective in horror movies about aliens?
Both practical effects and CGI have their place in alien horror movies, depending on the film’s budget and artistic vision. Practical effects can add a tangible, gritty realism to the film, as seen in Altered, while CGI can create more elaborate and otherworldly creatures and environments.
What are some key themes explored in horror movies about aliens?
Common themes in alien horror movies include the fear of invasion, the unknown, the fragility of human existence, and the consequences of contact with extraterrestrial life. These films often explore psychological terror, societal paranoia, and the potential dangers of human curiosity.
Why do some alien horror movies gain a cult following?
Alien horror movies often gain a cult following due to their unique concepts, memorable scenes, and the lasting impact they have on viewers. Films like The Faculty and Fire in the Sky may not have been commercial successes initially but have since been appreciated for their distinctive takes on the genre.
