Rediscover These 7 Overlooked Alien Movies That Deserve Your Attention!

Tucked among the blockbuster hits such as Alien and Predator, there’s a wealth of overlooked alien gems hidden away, waiting to be rediscovered. As Hollywood keeps producing expensive alien invasion films, many exceptional sci-fi movies have slipped into obscurity despite providing fresh viewpoints on extraterrestrial visitors. These underrated movies span from low-budget cult favorites to mid-level productions that didn’t get the audience they deserved when initially released. However, these films often pushed creative boundaries with imaginative creature designs, thought-provoking narratives, or practical effects that continue to impress today.

The fascination with alien life forms from different worlds has given birth to a rich collection of films that delve into initial encounters, invasions, living alongside them, and cosmic fear. Although some may recall the iconic movies that shaped this genre, seven lesser-known alien films are worth revisiting for their creativity, mood, and fresh perspective on extraterrestrial interactions. These overlooked productions either did not receive the recognition they deserved upon release or were overshadowed by larger productions. Regardless of the reason, each film offers an exciting experience for sci-fi fans eager to explore beyond the conventional.

Enemy Mine (1985)

In this tale, Dennis Quaid and Louis Gossett Jr. take center stage as bitter foes forced into an uneasy alliance. When a human air force pilot and his extraterrestrial adversary are stranded on a dangerous planet after their ships collide, they must set aside their differences to stay alive. Initially filled with animosity towards each other, their relationship eventually transforms into one of the most heartwarming interspecies connections in film history.

The movie’s strength lies in its sincere examination of empathy towards unfamiliar beings – in the story, Gossett’s character Jeriba gives birth, instructs Quaid’s character in its language, and eventually entrusts him with raising its offspring. Although it presents profound ideas about acceptance and family bonds formed unexpectedly, Enemy Mine fell short at the box office but has since garnered admiration for its emotional richness and the remarkable practical effects employed to design Gossett’s alien visage.

Attack the Block (2011)

Prior to John Boyega’s involvement in the Star Wars series, he played a significant role in a British sci-fi thriller, portraying Moses, a teenage leader of a South London gang, who defended his housing project from menacing alien invaders. This movie skillfully blends elements of horror, humor, and social critique, while showcasing unique alien designs that have stood out in modern cinema – dark-coal creatures with glowing blue fangs, which contrast strikingly against the urban backdrop at night.

In a unique twist on the traditional alien invasion storyline, director Joe Cornish positions the action within a disadvantaged neighborhood and casts teenagers as the leading heroes. The movie explores themes of class disparity and urban youth subculture, all while providing pulse-pounding action scenes that are genuinely exhilarating. Despite gaining a devoted fanbase, Attack the Block failed to garner the wider audience it arguably should have.

Attack the Block is streaming on Paramount+ and Pluto TV.

Slither (2006)

Prior to helming “Guardians of the Galaxy”, James Gunn concocted this charmingly revolting horror-comedy where parasitic aliens infiltrate a quaint town. In it, Nathan Fillion and Elizabeth Banks star, with the film offering a nostalgic nod to vintage B-movies while breathing new life into the genre using witty humor and visceral practical effects.

The aliens in the movie are strikingly disturbing, resembling slimy organisms that infiltrate human bodies, turning them into hideous breeding grounds. While it received praise for its mix of horror and humor, Slither flopped at the box office. Yet, it has since earned a loyal fanbase who admire its original genre fusion and Gunn’s distinct directorial style.

The Faculty (1998)

In the late ’90s, a science fiction horror movie set in high school blends themes from “Invasion of the Body Snatchers” with teenage drama. This production is penned by Kevin Williamson, renowned for “Scream”, and helmed by Robert Rodriguez. The narrative revolves around a band of students uncovering that their teachers are being replaced by parasitic aliens.

Featuring Elijah Wood, Josh Hartnett, and Jordana Brewster, The Faculty explores the theme of teenage alienation in an unusual way. The extraterrestrial invaders symbolize the perception that adults and those in authority are enigmatic, manipulative forces. Although it didn’t bomb at the box office, the movie has been somewhat overlooked despite its smart concept and enjoyable presentation.

Communion (1989)

According to the contentious “non-fiction” novel by Whitley Strieber, titled Communion, the story revolves around Christopher Walken portraying a character who undergoes unsettling encounters with beings that seem extraterrestrial in nature. In contrast to numerous alien films centering on invasion or government secrecy, this one delves into the profound psychological effects of such alien interaction.

In the movie “Communion”, Walken skillfully portrays a character who doubts his own mental stability following supposed alien abductions. The film’s power comes from its enigmatic nature – are the events genuine, figments of imagination, or a mix of both? Initially met with controversy upon release, this movie presents a thought-provoking, introspective view on extraterrestrial encounters that differs from most of its peers.

Communion is streaming on Prime Video and Peacock.

Fire in the Sky (1993)

This movie centers around Travis Walton’s claimed real-life abduction by aliens in 1975, and it delves equally into the events that followed and the impact on the community, as much as it does on the actual extraterrestrial encounter itself. When logger Walton vanished after witnessing a UFO, his colleagues were accused of murder until he resurfaced five days later with an extraordinary tale.

The movie is most notably recognized for its deeply unsettling abduction scene, where Walton undergoes a detailed, terrifying examination by aliens. Even though this striking scene stands out, the film Fire in the Sky has become less prominent in public memory, but it’s often praised as one of the scariest portrayals of alien abduction ever shown on screen.

Fire in the Sky is streaming on Pluto TV.

Under the Skin (2013)

In the enigmatic art-house film, Scarlett Johansson portrays a captivating extraterrestrial assuming human shape to lead unsuspecting men towards their demise. Director Jonathan Glazer masterfully crafts a mesmerizing, disquieting atmosphere that challenges conventional notions of what an alien film should convey.

The movie deviates from traditional narratives, opting instead for a more abstract style, relying heavily on breathtaking visuals and discordant music to convey an otherworldly feel. As the character portrayed by Johansson witnesses and gradually understands humanity, the film delves into the essence of what it means to be human, sparking thought-provoking questions. Despite receiving critical acclaim, Under the Skin is often overlooked by mainstream audiences, possibly because of its leisurely pace and innovative approach.

Although they might not have the widespread acclaim of movies such as E.T. or Close Encounters, each film presents a unique perspective on extraterrestrial life and our responses to it. In an era flooded with sequels and remakes, these often overlooked titles offer a breath of fresh air for audiences craving something outside their comfort zone. Maybe it’s worthwhile to switch off the lights, expand your imagination, and reconsider giving these forgotten alien encounters another opportunity to astound and unnerve you.

2025-03-11 03:40