In the last few years, invasion movies have become a popular genre. This list of the 50 best invasion movies includes both classic and modern films.
The best alien invasion movies – imdb is a list of 50 best invasion movies of all time. The list includes the worst to best, and has been updated with 2024 additions.
50. The Battle of Los Angeles (2011)
When once-distant UFOs become into a frightening danger to Earth, a Marine staff sergeant and his squad take it upon themselves to confront the enemy and save what is left of the world.
49. Battlefield Earth (2000)
The Psychlos, a selfish, deceptive species of aliens on a drive for ultimate wealth in the year 3000, are no match for man.
The Psychlos, led by the mighty Terl, are robbing Earth of its natural riches and exploiting the shattered remains of mankind as slaves. What remains of humanity has devolved into a near-primitive condition.
Tyler is the only one who can rescue humanity after being kidnapped.
48. Gandahar is number (1987)
The animals and people are amazing, and the ending will wow you. True science fiction fans, on the other hand, should ignore Leonard Maltin’s assessment and rent this film instead!
The animation is very well-done and detailed. Everything is in place for the tale to be told.
Nonetheless, Asimov’s influence can be observed not just in the book but also in the film version, which is faithful to his portrayal of life. As a result, it’s worth watching a few times.
It doesn’t speak to the audience as a child or an adult. If you like serious science fiction, though, you will love this film.
47. The Extraterrestrial Brother
The film ‘The Brother From Another Planet’ is fantastic. This is because, beneath its hip and sardonic exterior, the film seamlessly weaves together its many themes into a unique fantasy/parable.
I recommend this mid-80s cult classic, which deserved a wider audience at the time and still does.
This is a one-of-a-kind black comedy that is rich in social commentary and racism. Clearly, seeing this is worthwhile, and you will find yourself repeating lines from it afterwards. This will happen when you’re talking with some of your block’s pals.
46. Men in Black
The contrast between Tommy Lee Jones and Will Smith is what makes this picture stand out, apart from the outstanding effects, comedy, and screenplay.
Jones is the older and more active, whereas Smith is the more dispassionate, intellectual, and wiser.
These ‘Men In Black’ are on a mission to rescue the world from a terrifying insect invasion. This is a fantastic science fiction film that should not be missed.
Some of the death scenes may be too violent for children, but it will definitely become one of their favorite films as they grow older.
45. Master of Time
The ending is very sudden; it seems hurried, as if the filmmakers didn’t finish the narrative properly. Time Masters, on the other hand, is worth seeing for its creativity and ideas.
While the character designs were nothing remarkable or distinctive, the graphics were beautiful and detailed in the traditional French manner.
Another problem is the film’s general entertainment value, which is poor due to the film’s sluggish and meandering structure and editing.
Time Masters isn’t the greatest of French animation, and the comedy is overused, but the animation is fantastic.
44. From afar
The concept of this film is fantastic since it goes into the unknown, which is what makes horror so frightening, as we all know.
The fact that the terror does not cease once it starts adds to the film’s appeal. However, in a horror film, this is always a good thing since no one likes waiting for the next frightening situation to occur.
The storyline is unbelievable, as is the case with most horror flicks. Nonetheless, it is realistic since the machine’s function is explained, which is a credit to the film.
43. The second installment of the Guardians of the Galaxy franchise.
I didn’t anticipate this movie to be as good as it was. Though I was a big fan of the original Guardians of the Galaxy picture, I also think it’s one of the greatest in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Nonetheless, in virtually every aspect, this one is better.
The story is well-structured, and the pacing is superb. In addition, compared to the last film, this one digs further into its characters. The struggle to find a place where you belong is a major theme, and every key character struggles with this. This is a must-see!
42. Go After the Block
This film is engrossing and even funny in my opinion. It isn’t your average horror or alien invasion movie. Unlike other horror films, however, it has a happy ending and a unique storyline.
Furthermore, it includes outstanding performers in a setting that many of us are unfamiliar with.
If you like rap music, you will enjoy the soundtrack as well. In addition, all of the performers, particularly the main actress, did an outstanding job. Because I have difficulty understanding “hood” language, I was fortunate to be able to see it with subtitles.
Why don’t you have a look?
41. The End of the World
Not only are all of the performers excellent, but they also create multi-dimensional personalities. Nonetheless, I am concerned about them and genuinely hope that they will survive the chaos, misery, and terror.
This is a must-see for fans of vintage science fiction films in general. The R-rating eliminates nudity, even if the jokes and mayhem are a bit dirty. If you’re not a fan of British comedy, rent this instead.
Aside from that, I am sure you will love this video. So, this weekend, do yourself a favor and go see it.
40. Star Trek VI: The Undiscovered Country
Drama, action, major effects, and more are all present in this picture.
The filmmaker went to great lengths to keep you wondering, like concealing the villain in the light’s backdrop and other similar things.
The visual effects in this film are typical of the genre, and the combat scenes are equally impressive. In addition, there are many in-line jokes, which contribute to the characters’ sense of closeness.
With a sorrowful goodbye to the Enterprise crew and a precise passing of the torch to the next crew, the film concludes on a melancholy note.
Star Trek VI: The Undiscovered Country is a must-see film!
39. Star Trek: First Contact
With one of the finest technical credits and one of the most creative storylines, “Star Trek: First Contact” is one of the best of the eight “Star Trek” films.
I’d place it up there with 1986’s “Star Trek IV: The Voyage Home,” in which a humpback whale’s song determined the planet’s destiny.
This is an excellent flick. It is, however, a little scary. There is a lot of fighting and a guy who drinks alcohol often and recklessly.
38. The Abyss
It’s a thrilling underwater experience. If you’re searching for a criticism of this intriguing and emotionally taxing film, go no further. James Cameron established himself as a great filmmaker with The Abyss.
For lovers of the genre and excellent tension handling, this film is a must-see. The deep-sea sci-fi epic, which follows a crew of commercial drillers who uncover a deep-sea extraterrestrial civilization, is everything from a failure. It made more money than The Terminator and came close to matching the success of Aliens at the movie office.
37. The Secret
The film itself is a fantastic genre pastiche, acting as a fantastic buddy-cop action film, a fun sci-fi film, and a scary monster movie all at the same time!
It includes a well-balanced combination of exciting car chases, brutal shoot-outs, huge explosions, and slimy, writhing aliens, all of which are realistically done! Overall, it’s a great adventure that you should see!
‘The Hidden’ comes off as more of a police action movie than a science fiction thriller, which may hurt its prospects.
It doesn’t stand up well as a terrible shooter. Despite this, the picture proceeds swiftly, with little time devoted to explanations or motives.
36. Voyage to the Universe’s End (1963)
In the film, a crew of space explorers embark on an apparently endless journey to a new planet.
Along the way, they encounter many traps and dangers; nevertheless, the film fails horribly in terms of exterior effects work. The spaceship models are too tiny to be detailed, and dark-colored thread seems to push them into space.
As a consequence, the transitions between interior and outside images are abrupt.
Overall, it’s a timeless classic. Spaceship and space enthusiasts will like this.
35. Cloverfield Lane
In “10 Cloverfield Lane,” there isn’t a single boring minute. However, even the calmer times are tinged with an unsettling feeling of impending doom and misery.
This riveting picture is like a performance-enhancing drug-fueled version of “The Twilight Zone,” and it’s about the fear of the unknown vs. the familiar.
Coming into the image, the viewer has no clue what to anticipate, which is one of the most attractive elements of 10 Cloverfield Lane.
10 Cloverfield Lane is a movie that you should watch right now. Accept that you have no clue what you’re getting yourself into, and relax and enjoy the ride since it’s a once-in-a-lifetime chance.
34. Save the Environment
At moments, the film switches from bawdy comedy, suspense, horror, and sadness in the same frame. It’s incredible.
Save the Green Planet seems to be a sarcastic, jet-black comedy, and on that level, it works admirably. But at its core, it’s a passionate appeal for the preservation of the planet.
This roller-coaster ride may make you sick, but it will never weary you.
Unlike virtually every other American action picture, this one recognizes the need of keeping pace while avoiding mental or emotional challenges.
33. Treasure Planet
It’s a wonderful Disney sci-fi picture based on one of the most well-known works of our time. Without a question, this is one of the greatest films I’ve ever seen! Treasure Planet sweeps in as a futuristic retelling of the tale, based on the brilliantly built original Treasure Island.
Even though the characterizations aren’t as powerful as they should be, Treasure Planet contains a lot of fascinating information.
You should definitely have a look at it in your free time.
Treasure Planet was so costly to create that even if it had been a hit, Disney would have lost money.
32. Annihilation
It’s a bit slow to get going at first, and it’s a little complicated, but I definitely recommend it. An memorable experience is created by the mix of beautiful beauty and frightening creatures.
Annihilation is classified R for violence, horrific images, profanity, and some sexuality. The realistic portrayal of violent acts, replete with blood and tissue damage, is very frightening.
This is not a film I would suggest bringing small children to watch. Apart from the blood and violence, the movie is very disturbing at times. Although it may appeal to older adolescents, they should be aware that it is not a shoot-em-up action movie.
31. Star Trek: Enterprise
Star Trek: The Next Generation is everything a contemporary Star Wars or science fiction picture should and must be.
Because Nemesis and Insurrection weren’t all that great, I wasn’t expecting much, but I was pleasantly surprised when I saw the theatrical trailer for this picture; it was just so sleek and slick.
After that, I eventually got to see the film, which was wonderful.
The action is excellent, and the visual effects are still amazing. Overall, Star Trek 09 is one of the finest films in the series. You should definitely go next weekend to see it.
30. Star Trek IV: The Return of the Enterprise
As a contrast, “Star Trek IV” has a heroine rather than a single human enemy. As a consequence, the ensemble communicates with each other with remarkable ease.
The film includes a few notable action sequences, but they aren’t the film’s highlights; the “Star Trek” series has traditionally focused on human connection and serious, cause-oriented themes.
What happens in San Francisco is much more fascinating than what occurs in space. Moreover, despite its implausible and complex narrative, this is the most elegant and satisfying “Star Trek” picture to date. As a consequence, the brand has developed a devoted following.
29. Galaxy Quest (1999)
Galaxy Quest is a well-known science fiction film that parodies the genre while also paying homage to Star Trek fans. It’s a hidden treasure, but it’s a science-fiction comedy film that newbies to the Anime world should check out.
Galaxy Quest’s approach toward fans is probably the most important factor in the film’s popularity among fans.
Long before geek culture and Comic-Con were popular, long before Game of Thrones and superheroes became ubiquitous, this film was released.
It’s a sweet, appealing comedy with well-developed characters and clever to slapstick humor. Its family entertainment is amusing, fast-paced, funny, and fresh.
28. Dark City
Dark City, directed by Alex Proyas, is a great creative achievement that is both original and intriguing.
It is a triumph of art direction, set design, cinematography, special effects, and imagination rather than a story.
All human memories are recreated as the clock hands reach 12 in “Dark City.” Although the word “midnight” is used, it is deceptive since there is no noon.
This isn’t only a beautiful film; it’s also a generous one, with a lot of depth, creativity, and more components than are required to convey the narrative.
27. Starship Troopers
Starship Troopers is the most violent children’s film ever made. I refer to it as a child picture, not to be critical, but to be accurate: In terms of action, characters, and ideas, it is geared at 11-year-old science-fiction fans.
As a consequence, it is true to its origin. It’s based on the juvenile fiction of Robert A. Heinlein. The action scenes make heavy use of special effects.
Exhilaration and sheer enjoyment, on the other hand, are both lacking. In contrast to the “Star Wars” pictures, which welcomed great comedic inventiveness, “Starship Troopers” fails to engage the viewer. It’s a one-dimensional experience instead.
26. The Avengers
From amazing action scenes to excellent characters, this film has everything you want in a team-up superhero flick.
The fight choreography was great, not because of any action scenes a la John Wick, but because it was just a lot of fun.
One of my favorite parts of this film is the feeling of impending doom and dread; owing to great writing and acting, it really seems as if anything might happen at any moment.
Another thing I like is how well the characters are handled and interact with one another.
25. Under the Skin
There is a lot of unpredictability in this picture. If you don’t want to figure things out for yourself or interpret a narrative on your own, this isn’t the book for you. That isn’t meant as an insult, but as a suggestion.
Under the Skin was a program that I liked much, perhaps more than the average viewer.
Many people may dismiss it as dull, but I think that each scene has important growth or symbolism that helps our understanding of the whole narrative.
The enticing music and beautiful camerawork/setting create a FEELING for the spectator, which (in my opinion) is more important than speech.
24. The Fifth Element
This is without a doubt one of the best films ever produced. I can’t think of anything I’d say negative about it.
The future setting is plausible and realistic, but the acting, humor, narrative, and, most importantly, the characters are all exceptional.
This movie is seldom overplayed on TV, which I think is due to the fact that everyone knows it’s a cult classic. The amount of care and attention that went into every element of this picture, on the other hand, is astounding.
Despite being a critical person, I love this film since it is without faults.
23. A Quiet Place
Many horror films have been produced throughout the years, but “A Quiet Place” found a method to distinguish out: it was a silent picture with sound effects, with virtually no dialogue.
It’s one of the most creative, well-produced, and well-acted horror films I’ve ever seen. The primary reason for its power, in my opinion, is the family problem at its heart.
A Quiet Place is a horror film that will appeal to fans of the genre.
22. Edge of Tomorrow
I’m not sure I’ve ever enjoyed a movie as much as I did this one.
The concept of a time loop was intriguing, and it sometimes evolved into something funny. When Tom Cruise starts as a frightened guy and eventually transforms into a fearsome action hero, the film shines.
You feel sorry for him every time he tries and fails! The film’s excellent action sequences communicate an underlying message of never giving up. If you’re a Tom Cruise fan, you should definitely check this one out!
21. Repo Man
Repo Man is a dark comedic science fiction film from 1984.
“Repo Man” is one of those flicks that manages to find its way into the cracks and give us with a weird kind of pleasure.
It’s the first film I’m aware of that has (one) punk youths, (two) car repossessors, and (three) aliens. This is the kind of picture that perplexes Hollywood since it isn’t built on a formula or follows a set of rules.
The film includes a number of running jokes, the greatest of which, of all things, involves generic food labels. It’s a fantastic film that you should see right now.
20. They Are Alive (1988)
This is one of those once-in-a-lifetime occurrences from the 1980s that I wish I’d known about years ago. It’s a sci-fi cult favorite for a number of reasons. Going into it with no expectations was the best way to approach it.
The story moves along steadily and predictably, eventually revealing its mysteries in a logical and well-paced manner.
The acting is excellent, and there’s just enough 80s cheese to make you laugh aloud. The man-on-man battle, on the other hand, was gritty to the core in a manner I’ll never forget. It seemed as though an eternity had passed.
19. District 9
The sci-fi flick District 9 is a one-of-a-kind experience that should not be missed. However, this is not a film for everyone. It’s gory, and some of the moments will make you cringe. Will the kids like it? Because of the violent violence and heavy language, it is classified R.
The storyline centers on a private security firm’s obsession with uncovering the secret of extraterrestrial weapons that humans are incapable of operating.
Surprisingly, none of these weapons seem to be better than those employed by humans, and the aliens don’t seem to know how to utilize them effectively in defense. In any case, it’s a lovely film.
18. The Body Snatchers’ Invasion
This scary Sci-Fi picture has a gripping plot based on Jack Finney’s book “Body Snatchers,” which is really disturbing. It is, nevertheless, full of both scary and beautiful twists and turns.
Many people are used to a lack of visual impact today, but examine the historical background and implications; in other words, use your imagination!
Then you’ll see why studio executives were so afraid of the movie that Don Siegel was forced to add an opening and outro to help soften the overall image.
The film is a fantastic chiller classic, despite not being the finest play in the world.
17. Assailant
This film is a fantastic mix of action, science fiction, and horror, with enough of shocks to keep macho action lovers entertained.
The first half of the picture has some of the greatest action sequences ever filmed in the 1980s, but it’s also noteworthy for how seamlessly it transitions into full-fledged horror without missing a beat or seeming like two movies in one.
It’s one of the greatest science fiction films ever produced, in my opinion. The Predator is an exciting action/horror movie. “Predator” has outstanding performance, with “Arnold Schwarzenegger” giving his all in every part.
16. The Day the Earth Stopped Rotating
This remake is unappreciated. Of course, it’s not nearly as excellent as the original, but it’s much superior than most people’s expectations.
Yes, some of the CGI isn’t up to standard, and there are some poor character choices and logical problems. Nonetheless, this is a vibrant, entertaining recreation that captures the energy well.
It’s a classic extraterrestrial encounter thriller that’s both exciting and thought-provoking.
Despite some violent and frightening moments, the film is nevertheless a masterpiece worth seeing.
15. A Southeast-facing man
Because it blends genre and reality, this is one of the greatest science fiction films ever produced. It’s about human emotions, and it’s very lyrical, lovely to look at, and easy to follow.
It’s a little slow in my view, but it’s definitely worth your time. Aside from that, the acting is superb, and the pace is unrelenting, although slow.
There is no apparent end to the story. That is exactly my point. You must make your own decisions, and the tale is very thought-provoking. In my view, the central subject is a meditation on thinking and defining reality.
14. Close Encounters of the Third Kind
Extraterrestrials is a one-of-a-kind film.
Unlike most movies, which create suspense by meticulously laying out information so that spectators have to do as little thinking as possible, this one does the reverse.
The aliens are so mysterious and strange that they inspire a childish feeling of wonder and fear in the face of the unknown.
The whole movie revolves on a man’s obsession with something he couldn’t explain and how it tore his life apart.
It’s very beautifully done to go from family turmoil to a scientist attempting to figure out what’s going on.
You should make time to watch it since it is fascinating and intriguing.
13. Guardians of the Galaxy
Guardians of the Galaxy is a Marvel Comics series targeted towards older adolescents and adult science fiction movie enthusiasts.
The film’s M classification is acceptable. It does, however, include a number of violent and disturbing scenes, as well as scary characters, making it inappropriate for children.
The Marvel Cinematic Universe’s first full-fledged comedy was Guardians of the Galaxy. Since the quirky gang of misfits has been making franchise fans laugh.
The Guardians of the Galaxy are still the MCU’s funniest characters, despite the fact that every Marvel film is now a full-fledged comedy. It’s a must-see.
12. The Rocky Horror Picture Show is the 12th film in the Rocky Horror Picture Show franchise
The adjective “fun” is inadequate to describe this film. The film’s upbeat soundtrack and pure fun atmosphere are wonderfully matched by a superb ensemble, culminating in something exquisite that defies expectations.
This, in my opinion, is one of the most unique documentaries ever produced! It has it all: science fiction, over-the-top drama, sex, and great music.
Though the sex may seem to children to be objectionable, it is not in any way excessive.
11. The Body Snatchers’ Invasion
I have to agree that this film is a masterpiece, yet the film’s horrifying conclusion will always haunt me. Because it pushed the viewers to become more captivated with the picture despite its terror.
This is something I would suggest to anybody who loves frightening movies but isn’t afraid to explore what science fiction can accomplish.
The visual effects are breathtaking. They’re also truly biological in the sense that they depict frenzied plant life.
The beautiful effects are strange due to its paranoia-driven subject matter and frightening dose of societal satire.
One of the most well-known sci-fi horror films of all time is Invasion of the Body Snatchers.
Because of its intentional simplicity, Extra-Terrestrial (1982) is a lovely film. The tale of a little child who meets an extraterrestrial species remains faithful to a child’s point of view of the universe, avoiding adult terrain.
By modeling the extraterrestrial on an imagined childhood friend, the filmmaker avoided overt action sequences. He/she also gives his ensemble of young artists lots of opportunities to grow.
Spielberg’s mix of bizarre otherworldly events and suburban normalcy produced a widely acclaimed film. The use of mysterious cinematic elements provides an intriguing feeling of uncertainty and potential.
9. The Wrath of Khan (Star Trek II) (1982)
Khan’s revenge campaign against Kirk and the Enterprise crew set the stage for many thrilling battle sequences. The film took the finest elements of submarine epics and put them into space.
What’s the Difference Between Star Trek and Star Wars?
Star Trek is superior than Star Wars because it is situated in “our” galaxy and therefore more relevant to viewers, while Star Wars is located in a separate universe.
This is one of the Trek series that you must see.
8. Interstellar: The Secret Star System (Interstellar: The Secret Star System) (Interstellar: The Secret Star System) (Inter
For me, it was a lot of joy. Before viewing this, I had never seen much anime, but the animation is amazing.
The music is incredible! I had never heard of the film before, but as my love for Daft Punk’s music increased, I was attracted to it. Even those who aren’t huge fans of anime will like this flick.
I had never heard of Daft Punk before watching this film. Despite the fact that I just heard about them after they split, I enjoyed the film immensely.
It conveyed the narrative well without using words (aside from the music lyrics), and the storyline was straightforward.
7. Avengers: Infinity War
Despite the fact that the last two Avengers films go into darker terrain, such as the end of the world, the directors never lose sight of the bigger picture. Their focus is always on providing great entertainment; after all, these events are meant to be fun.
Endgame is often amusing, due to the cast’s abilities and timing.
Thanos is shown as a strong but flawed, fierce yet merciful, determined yet emotionally exhausted person, which is extremely intriguing. This is a movie you should watch over the weekend.
6. Marvelous Planet
This is an excellent flick. The strange, dream-like animation is interesting to see, and the story is both captivating and thought-provoking.
However, I don’t think this picture deals with racism. Instead, I believe it is a study of how people treat animals.
Keep in mind that the sexual elements of the film are shown in such a strange, otherworldly manner that they seem almost scientific. They’re also shown in the style of a nature documentary or anything similar.
Overall, it’s a worthwhile film to see this weekend.
5. Avengers: Infinity War is the fifth film in the Avengers franchise
I recall seeing this movie a couple of months ago. It’s an amazing film. In addition, the storyline is intriguing, and everyone performed well in their individual parts.
Thanos, in particular, is a formidable opponent. It’s amazing how he handled each Avenger.
AWESOME MOVIE! It’s an event not to be missed. To watch it, go to a movie theater.
The notion that the heroes are just delaying an impending catastrophe with no chance of preventing it made Infinity War seem like a third act — it felt like the MCU’s finale.
4. Time of Arrival
Arrival isn’t your typical extraterrestrial movie; it’s much superior. This is a documentary on the influence of language on how you think and live your life.
This film contains a number of disturbing visuals. It is, however, a wonderful variation on both the “first encounter” genre and the “femme fatal” cliché. It’s worth watching to see what happens next, even though the storyline isn’t completely clear.
It’s a transcendent watching experience that goes beyond the skin and into the heart, as it turns out to be much more concerned with people than with extraterrestrial visitors. As a result, it’s a must-see!
3. The Fact
John Carpenter’s masterpiece “The Thing” is one of the greatest vintage horror pictures ever produced! This is a classic film.
John Carpenter’s The Thing is one of the most entertaining horror films ever made, being fast-paced, inventive, and exciting from start to finish. It’s one of my favorite horror movies of all time.
I suggest starting with The Thing (2011) and then moving on to The Thing (2012). (2012).
This shows the events in chronological order, so if you’re going to watch it more than once, start with the Prequel.
2. THE ALIEN (1979)
Alien is a horror cinema classic because of its wonderful pacing.
The synchronization of sound and visuals, as well as the careful attention to detail, are Alien’s strongest assets. Furthermore, Alien has an eerie atmosphere from the very beginning.
To say nothing of the ship, we’re introduced to a crew that isn’t exactly amicable with one another.
The way the characters are written appeals to me much. They’re not Hollywood heroes, and there isn’t even a hero in this story.
They’re just people, which makes them much more susceptible. Every performance is equally genuine and delivers on its promises.
1. Extraterrestrials (1986)
The 50 Greatest Invasion Films of All Time (2024 Update, Worst to Best)
The advertisements for “Aliens” promise that it will scare you as few other films have, and they aren’t lying this time.
The film just gives enough backstory to define the characters and explain the scenario. Then the action starts.
Aliens have infiltrated the colony, with the exception of one courageous young girl (Carrie Henn) who has managed to hide in the air ducts.
I’m not sure how else to say it: the movie made me sad. It made me feel uneasy, unsettled, and anxious.
I took a stroll outside, not wanting to talk to anybody. I was completely exhausted. I’m not sure whether “Aliens” is considered entertainment.
The movies like assimilate is a list of 50 movies that are all about invasions.
