10 Hair-Raising Sci-Fi Films Similar to 'Alien'

In a career filled with both exceptional and imperfect films, the question of Ridley Scott's greatest movie is a subject open to discussion. One contender that frequently emerges as a potential winner is the 1979 film Alien. This straightforward sci-fi/horror movie lives up to its title, featuring a group of individuals aboard a spaceship who must face off against a menacing alien, engaging in a battle for survival.

While Alien did not originate the concept of a film set in a confined space with characters battling a formidable and unknown enemy, it may have perfected this type of storyline. Consequently, its influence can be seen in other films that offer riveting sci-fi and/or horror narratives, packed with tension and suspenseful scenes that grip audiences. The following list highlights some of these comparable films, which, while not on the same level as Alien, may satisfy those seeking more sci-fi and/or horror movies of a similar nature.

1. 'Event Horizon' (1997)

Image via Paramount Pictures

Event Horizon certainly has its flaws, but when it comes to terrifying science fiction films, it manages to be quite effective in certain parts. Set in the 2040s, the movie follows a crew on a space voyage to find the eponymous ship, which has been missing for seven years. The story gradually unfolds, revealing the horrifying truth behind the ship's disappearance and the terrifying secrets it holds. Each scene becomes increasingly unsettling, as Event Horizon combines brutal violence with disturbing visuals and sets, and even incorporates elements of religious horror. Despite some aspects that haven't aged gracefully and the notorious interference from the studio, the film still manages to showcase its striking elements, making it a worthwhile exploration of a space-set horror movie.

Watch on Showtime

2. 'The Thing' (1982)

Image via Universal Pictures

The Thing is an exceptional R-rated horror film that rivals Alien, released just three years before. While The Thing takes place on Earth rather than in space, it is undeniably a revered sci-fi/horror classic. The storyline is uncomplicated yet highly effective, following a group of characters who become targets of a deadly shape-shifting creature from outer space. This relentless creature is determined to eliminate and assimilate each member of the group, creating an atmosphere of suspense and terror.

Antarctica's unforgiving conditions, akin to the vastness of space, serve as the backdrop where the film's characters find themselves battling against isolation induced by the freezing climate and unreliable means of communication. Throughout the entirety of the movie, Director John Carpenter skillfully creates a tense atmosphere, complemented by Ennio Morricone's hauntingly minimalistic score, resulting in an incredibly powerful and suspenseful horror film.

Stream on Peacock.

3. 'Jaws' (1975)

Image via Universal Pictures

While the aforementioned movies may have drawn inspiration from Alien, it is worth noting that Jaws, being released earlier, could have potentially influenced Alien. Despite not being a science fiction film, Jaws shares similar characteristics with Alien, such as a slow-burn storyline, a consistently intense climax, and a thrilling battle for survival against a terrifying monster.

In Jaws, the monster is a shark, but it is depicted as a creature so immense and lethal that it almost feels otherworldly, resembling an alien entity or an extraordinary beast. Considered as Steven Spielberg's most exceptional thriller, it is remarkable that he directed Jaws before reaching the age of 30. Few horror/thriller films can match the intense suspense and gripping nature of Jaws, solidifying its position as one of the greatest creature features of all time.

Watch on Netflix

4. 'Annihilation' (2018)

Paramount Pictures presents a captivating blend of science fiction and horror in the mesmerizing film, Annihilation. This masterpiece skillfully bridges the gap between Garland's previous horror flick, Men, and his directorial debut, Ex Machina, which is predominantly categorized as a science fiction film, rather than a horror or sci-fi/horror creation.

Annihilation is a captivating film that takes viewers on an extraordinary journey as a group of brave women enter an enigmatic and otherworldly zone. Their perilous expedition is filled with astonishing sights and peculiar creatures, gradually building tension to create a desperate fight for survival. This movie distinguishes itself from others that blend science fiction with horror, thanks to its unique surreal flair. Catch it on Paramount+!

5. 'The Descent' (2005)

Image via Pathé

The Descent, released in 2005, is a remarkable horror film that shares the same intense atmosphere as Alien, outside the science fiction genre. In this classic movie, the main character embarks on a trip with her friends to a deep and ominous cave following a significant tragedy. Supposed to offer solace from her grief, their expedition swiftly transforms into a horrifying nightmare as they become targeted and pursued by eerie creatures that reside within the caves.

Watching The Descent may instill a profound fear of darkness in those who never experienced it before, as the characters are constantly vulnerable to sudden and unexpected attacks. Once the unfortunate events begin, the film grips its audience with a relentless and distressing narrative that is almost traumatizing to behold. Despite its challenging nature, the movie effectively delivers the sense of horror with high stakes, unrelenting terror, and an uncomfortably confined setting.

Watch on Max

6. 'Sunshine' (2007)

Image Via Searchlight Pictures

Aside from his collaborations with Christopher Nolan and the TV series Peaky Blinders, Cillian Murphy is widely recognized for his role as the main character in the iconic 2002 zombie film 28 Days Later. This acclaimed movie, written by Alex Garland and directed by Danny Boyle, showcases the remarkable talent of Cillian Murphy. The same writer-director duo also teamed up in 2007 to create Sunshine, another gripping sci-fi/thriller, where Murphy once again takes on the lead role.

7. 'Life' (2017)

Sunshine is a gripping science fiction film that delves into the perilous journey of a team of astronauts. Tasked with reviving the dying sun, their mission holds the fate of all life on Earth. While not a horror movie, it captivates viewers with its intense atmosphere and can be considered as a thought-provoking psychological thriller/drama. This exhilarating watch unfolds with the highest stakes imaginable - the salvation of the world and humanity itself.

Image via Sony Pictures Releasing

Much like Event Horizon, Life may not achieve excellence as a science fiction/horror film, however, its essence undeniably pays homage to Alien and other space isolation films that preceded it. The captivating storyline unfolds on the International Space Station, where a limited cast of characters find themselves entangled in a series of catastrophic events triggered by their investigation of what is believed to be the initial evidence of extraterrestrial existence.

In the realm of Life, it adheres to the notion of "If it isn't damaged, there's no need to repair it." The fundamental concept of individuals in space combating extraterrestrial beings remains intact, allowing Life to proceed with moderate achievement. Although it may not be exceptional or innovative, it delivers science fiction excitement and frights while showcasing characters situated far from Earth, which undoubtedly holds significance.

Stream on Starz.

8. 'The Mist' (2007)

Image via Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer

Frank Darabont's greatest claim to fame is directing the iconic prison drama, The Shawshank Redemption. However, it is important not to underestimate his other directorial achievements. One notable example is the 2007 film, The Mist. The story revolves around a group of individuals who become trapped inside a supermarket due to a mysterious mist engulfing their town. This mist brings forth numerous strange and deadly creatures, creating a constant sense of danger. Despite some flaws in the dialogue and special effects, The Mist excels in creating an unsettling and eerie atmosphere. The film culminates in a widely debated ending that either enhances or detracts from the overall experience. Undoubtedly, The Mist stands as one of the most disquieting horror movies of recent years, leveraging its unique and confined setting to great effect.

Watch on Peacock

9. 'Nope' (2022)

One of the most impressive horror films of the 2020s thus far, Nope offers a unique twist reminiscent of Jaws, transplanting the tension to a desert setting and infusing it with a captivating science fiction element. The storyline revolves around a diverse group of individuals, each profoundly affected by an encounter with a mysterious object or creature, awakening their realization of the perilous consequences looming ahead.

Jordan Peele had previously directed two captivating horror movies, "Get Out" in 2017 and "Us" in 2019. His latest film, "Nope," released in 2022, incorporates science fiction elements and has a higher production scale and budget compared to his earlier works. The question of whether the increased scale enhances the movie is subjective, but it cannot be denied that "Nope" delivers impressive spectacle and genuinely chilling moments, successfully combining sci-fi and horror genres.

Available for streaming on Prime Video.

10. 'The Cloverfield Paradox' (2018)

Image via Netflix

The Cloverfield Paradox, released in 2018, is a sci-fi/horror movie that attempts to capture the essence of classics like Alien. While it falls short of achieving the same level of brilliance, it undeniably draws inspiration from the genre's earlier films. The story revolves around a group of scientists in space who find themselves trapped in a terrifying ordeal while working on a solution to an ongoing energy crisis.

While The Cloverfield Paradox may not be considered a masterpiece among sci-fi movies, it does offer some thrills for those seeking a space horror experience. It may not be as strong as other films in the "Cloverfield" franchise, but it does make an effort to bring a modern twist to the Alien formula, making it somewhat reminiscent of the iconic film.

Watch on Netflix