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EditorialsMaking Contact - The 15 Best UFO Movies Ever Made

Making Contact - The 15 Best UFO Movies Ever Made

Written by Chelsea Wright & Likewise Pix | Oct 29, 2024 Dive into the cinematic universe of UFOs with our curated list of the 15 best movies ever made about alien encounters. These films explore the unknown, challenge perceptions, and take viewers on extraordinary journeys with extraterrestrial beings.

Arrival (2016)

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With a riveting plot, "Arrival" revolves around an expert linguist played by Amy Adams, who is tasked by the military to communicate with aliens that have landed on Earth. Directed by Denis Villeneuve, the film explores themes of language, time, and humanity. Rated at 4.2 stars, this thought-provoking film leaves its audience pondering our place in the universe. Watch Now

Close Encounters of the Third Kind (1977)

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Steven Spielberg crafts a masterpiece in "Close Encounters of the Third Kind" where an immersive encounter with UFOs leads a linesman on a life-altering journey. With a 3.9-star rating, the film beautifully illustrates humanity’s yearning for connection with the cosmic unknown. Watch Now

District 9 (2009)

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Set against the South African backdrop, "District 9" is a gripping narrative about alien refugees residing in Earth’s District 9. With a 4.2-star rating, director Neill Blomkamp raises questions about humanity, exploitation, and identity through this science fiction drama. Watch Now

War of the Worlds (2005)

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In this adaptation of H.G. Wells' classic tale, "War of the Worlds" features Tom Cruise as a father trying to protect his children amidst an alien invasion. Directed by Spielberg, the film weaves a tale of survival, with a thrilling pace and rated 3.4 stars. Watch Now

Independence Day (1996)

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Famous for its explosive set-pieces and charismatic performances, "Independence Day" is a quintessential alien blockbuster. With a 3.7-star rating, this film epitomizes epic warfare against alien invaders and rallied heroes trying to save our planet over a fateful Fourth of July. Watch Now

2001: A Space Odyssey (1968)

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Directed by Stanley Kubrick, "2001: A Space Odyssey" is defined by its awe-inspiring visuals and philosophical inquiries. A voyage into space becomes a journey of evolution and identity, with a 4.3-star rating. HAL 9000, the onboard AI, continues to intrigue and spark debates. Watch Now

Signs (2002)

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"Signs", directed by M. Night Shyamalan, is a suspenseful thriller about crop circles appearing mysteriously on a family’s farm. With a rating of 3.5 stars, this film challenges perceptions of faith and fear when facing the unknown. Watch Now

Under the Skin (2014)

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This hauntingly minimalist film swirls Scarlett Johansson in an enigmatic alien role, preying on Glasgow’s unsuspecting men. "Under the Skin", with a 3.3-star rating, is visually stunning and deeply introspective. Watch Now

Mars Attacks! (1996)

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Tim Burton’s campy classic, "Mars Attacks!", presents a comedic twist on alien invasions. With its satirical tones and 3-star rating, this film is a parody of sci-fi’s more serious endeavors, pairing humor with chaos. Watch Now

The Thing (1982)

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In John Carpenter's "The Thing", paranoia rises among a secluded Antarctic research team when an alien capable of mimicking any life form invades. This sci-fi horror masterpiece, rated 4.3 stars, remains chilling and unmatched in suspense. Watch Now

Contact (1997)

Contact Movie Poster
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Jodie Foster stars in "Contact", where radio astronomer Ellie Arroway intercepts a transformative alien signal. With a 3.6-star rating, this film merges scientific exploration with humanity’s quest for understanding the cosmos. Watch Now

Edge of Tomorrow (2014)

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Tom Cruise stars in "Edge of Tomorrow", a gripping action film where he relives the same day of battle against aliens in a time loop. With a 4-star rating, this film is praised for its dynamic storytelling and edge-of-your-seat action. Watch Now

E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial (1982)

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Steven Spielberg's "E.T." tugs at heartstrings with an endearing tale of a young boy's friendship with a stranded alien. A cinematic treasure with a 4-star rating, it broke box-office records and captured the wonder and innocence of childhood. Watch Now

They Live (1988)

They Live Movie Poster
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John Carpenter's "They Live" explores themes of control and consumerism through the eyes of a drifter who discovers sunglasses that reveal alien infiltration. With its 3.5-star rating, this film is a cult classic, blending sci-fi with sociopolitical commentary. Watch Now

Men in Black (1997)

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Known for its snappy dialogues and humor, "Men in Black" sees Tommy Lee Jones and Will Smith as secret agents safeguarding Earth's extraterrestrial affairs. With a 3.8-star rating, the film is cherished for its clever storytelling and charismatic duo. Watch Now

Each of these films offers a unique narrative and perspective on the fascinating interactions between humans and those from beyond our world. Whether you prefer suspense, action, or philosophical inquiries, these UFO movies remain essential viewing for any film enthusiast intrigued by what lies beyond the stars.

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