When it comes to movies like Annihilation and Arrival, I often find myself at a loss. I love both movies for their ability to take me on an emotional journey, but they’re so different in terms of approach and execution that it’s hard to compare them directly. That said, there are definitely some key similarities between the two films that make them both essential viewing for fans of cerebral science fiction.
Both Annihilation and Arrival are led by strong female protagonists who are forced to confront unimaginable challenges. In Annihilation, Lena (Natalie Portman) is a biologist who joins an all-female expedition into an environmental disaster zone from which no one has ever returned. Meanwhile, in Arrival, Louise Banks (Amy Adams) is a linguist who must find a way to communicate with an alien race that has suddenly appeared on Earth. Both women are incredibly brave and resourceful, and their journeys are beautifully realized on screen.
Another commonality between Annihilation and Arrival is the stunning visual effects used to bring their respective worlds to life. Annihilation features some of the most gorgeous and nightmarish images I’ve ever seen in a film, while Arrival’s aliens are brought to life with eerie perfection. Both movies are visually stunning in different ways, but they both manage to create unforgettable cinematic experiences.
If you’re looking for some other movies like Annihilation or Arrival, check out this list:
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1. Prometheus (2012)
Now streaming on Disney Plus, Apple TV, Amazon Prime
The fifth ‘Alien’ film, ‘Prometheus,’ has its own identity and retains a distinct personality from the previous films in the franchise.
The film begins with the crew of a spacecraft named Prometheus that has touched down on a desolate, distant moon in the late 21st century, attempting to learn about mankind’s origins based on a star map before they discover the trap and realize that humanity itself may be in peril.
‘Prometheus’ not only keeps the excitement-seeking audience on the edge of their seats, but it also encourages them to explore uncharted moons and planets.
‘Prometheus,’ with its spellbinding performances (especially Michael Fassbender, who is utterly addictive), frightening alien creatures, and the watertight plot, is a must-see.
2. Under the Skin (2013)
Now streaming on Amazon Prime Video (UK) – Use VPN to unblock in your country
‘Under the Skin’ is a British science fiction film that was released in 2013.
The movie stars Scarlett Johansson as an extraterrestrial being who lures men into her trap with the promise of sex before killing them.
Johansson’s character is both seductive and terrifying, and the film itself is visually stunning, often feeling more like a nightmare than reality.
‘Under the Skin’ is a slow-burn movie that will leave you feeling both unsettled and deeply reflective long after it’s over.
It’s definitely not for everyone, but if you’re looking for a mind-bending sci-fi film that will stay with you long after you’ve seen it, ‘Under the Skin’ is definitely worth a watch.
3. The Signal (2014)
Now streaming on Amazon Prime
‘The Signal’ is a 2014 American science fiction thriller film directed by William Eubank.
The film follows Nic Eastman (Brenton Thwaites), who, along with his friends, finds himself in the middle of
Like Annihilation, it’s an enigmatic and visually arresting film that will leave you with plenty to think about long after the credits have rolled. And like Arrival, it features a strong female protagonist who must grapple with an otherworldly threat.
4. War of the Worlds (2005)
Now streaming on Netflix, Amazon Prime, Apple TV
‘War of the Worlds’ is a 2005 science fiction film directed by Steven Spielberg.
The movie, which stars Tom Cruise and Dakota Fanning, is a loose adaptation of H.G. Wells’ classic novel of the same name.
While it’s not as cerebral as either Annihilation or Arrival, ‘War of the Worlds’ is a thrilling ride from beginning to end, and it features some truly stunning visual effects.
If you’re looking for a fun, edge-of-your-seat science fiction film, ‘War of the Worlds’ is definitely worth checking out.
5. Ex Machina (2015)
Now streaming on Netflix, Amazon Prime, Apple TV
‘Ex Machina’ is a 2015 science fiction film directed by Alex Garland.
The movie stars Domhnall Gleeson, Alicia Vikander, and Oscar Isaac.
‘Ex Machina’ is a thought-provoking film that explores the ethical implications of artificial intelligence.
If you’re looking for a science fiction film that will make you think, ‘Ex Machina’ is definitely worth checking out.
6. District 9 (2009)
Now streaming on Netflix, Amazon Prime Video
‘District Nine’ is a 2009 science fiction film directed by Neill Blomkamp. The movie stars Sharlto Copley, Jason Cope, and David James. ‘District Nine’ is set in an alternate version of present-day Johannesburg, South Africa, where aliens have been living in a slum-like area called District Nine for 20 years.
The film follows Wikus van der Merwe (Copley), a bureaucrat who is tasked with relocating the aliens to a new location. However, Wikus soon discovers that the aliens are not as harmless as they seem.
‘District Nine’ is a thought-provoking film that explores themes of xenophobia and racism. If you’re looking for a science fiction film that will make you think, ‘District Nine’ is definitely worth checking out.
7. Avatar (2009)
If you’re looking for a mind-bending, visually stunning sci-fi movie, then Avatar is a great choice. This film tells the story of a group of humans who are sent to another planet in order to observe the native inhabitants.
However, they soon find out that this planet is very different from their own and they must adapt in order to survive. Avatar is an excellent example of a film that will leave you thinking long after the credits have rolled.
8. The Road (2009)
Now streaming on Amazon Prime
Another post-apocalyptic film with a strong female lead, The Road is a brutal and heart-wrenching tale of survival in a world that has been ravaged by an unspecified disaster.
While it doesn’t feature any aliens or otherworldly beings, it’s a harrowing and emotionally charged film that is sure to stay with you long after you’ve seen it.
If you’re looking for movies that are similar to Annihilation or Arrival, then this list should give you plenty of films to choose from. From stunning visual effects to strong female protagonists, these films have a lot to offer audiences looking for a thought-provoking and deeply unsettling cinematic experience. So sit back, relax, and enjoy the ride.
Do you have any other suggestions for movies like Annihilation or Arrival? Let us know in the comments below! And be sure to check out our other lists of great films to watch if you’re looking for more recommendations.
