The Best Alien Movies Of The '80s

This thrilling sequel to the groundbreaking 1979 film features Sigourney Weaver reprising her role as Ellen Ripley, who must confront an entire hive of deadly extraterrestrial creatures. Directed by James Cameron, this movie combines sci-fi and action genres with a strong female protagonist to create a truly memorable cinematic experience. The film's intense pacing, impressive special effects, and powerful performances make it a standout in 1980s alien movies.

Arnold Schwarzenegger stars in this action-packed film as Dutch, the leader of an elite military squad sent on a mission to Central America. Along the way, they encounter an intelligent and relentless alien hunter who picks off members of the team one by one. The suspenseful atmosphere, gripping action sequences, and unique creature design have made this movie a fan-favorite for decades.

Directed by Steven Spielberg, this heartwarming story follows young Elliot (played by Henry Thomas) as he befriends an alien creature who has been accidentally left behind on Earth. With its timeless themes of friendship and empathy, this iconic movie continues to resonate with audiences today. The touching performances from its young cast and John Williams' unforgettable score solidify its status as a classic of 1980s cinema.

In this chilling horror film directed by John Carpenter, Kurt Russell plays R.J. MacReady, part of a research team stationed in Antarctica that encounters a shape-shifting alien organism capable of mimicking any living being it comes into contact with. As paranoia sets in among the isolated group, they must work together to survive and uncover which member has been infected by the malevolent creature. Its unnerving atmosphere and groundbreaking practical effects make it a must-watch for fans of both horror and science fiction.

This hilarious parody from director Mel Brooks lampoons many popular sci-fi franchises, most notably Star Wars. With a star-studded cast including Bill Pullman, John Candy, and Rick Moranis, the film provides non-stop laughs as it follows the adventures of Lone Starr and Barf in their quest to rescue Princess Vespa from the evil Dark Helmet. Its irreverent humor and memorable characters make it a beloved comedy among fans of 1980s cinema.

In this cult classic directed by John Carpenter, Roddy Piper stars as Nada, a drifter who discovers that Earth has been infiltrated by an alien species intent on subjugating humanity through subliminal messages in mass media. Armed with a pair of special sunglasses that reveal the hidden aliens and their deceptive messages, Nada embarks on a mission to expose the truth. The film's blend of action, conspiracy theories, and biting social commentary has made it an enduring favorite for fans of genre films.