Best Alien Movies to Watch While High

Zachary McCreedy
alien

There's nothing better than sparking up a joint and watching some reality defying aliens. These types of movies really make you contemplate the complexity of life. If you’re into alien movies and enjoy a little added vibe, you’re in for a treat. I've taken the time to watch a bunch of alien flicks while high (hard work, but someone had to do it) and compiled a list of some of my favorites.

This isn’t a definitive list by any means, but I’ve tried to include a range of genres, so there's something here for everyone.

Close Encounters of the Third Kind (1977)

  • Starring: Richard Dreyfuss, Teri Garr, Melinda Dillon
  • Directed by: Steven Spielberg
  • Genre: Sci-Fi Drama
  • Rating: PG
  • Rotten Tomatoes Score: 94%
  • IMDB Score: 7.6

A Spielberg classic, Close Encounters tells the story of a man who encounters mysterious lights in the sky and becomes obsessed with understanding what he saw. As he grows increasingly fixated, his life unravels, but he’s not the only one seeking answers. The cinematography, suspenseful pacing, and moving score make this a powerful film. It’s thoughtful, visually stunning, and perfect for anyone looking for an introspective alien story.

Click here for Movie trailer

Starman (1984

  • Starring: Jeff Bridges, Karen Allen
  • Directed by: John Carpenter
  • Genre: Sci-Fi Romance
  • Rating: PG
  • Rotten Tomatoes Score: 81%
  • IMDB Score: 7.0

One of my all-time favorite movies, Starman tells the story of an alien who crash-lands on Earth and takes the form of a recently deceased man (Jeff Bridges). As he and a widow (Karen Allen) embark on a journey to his rendezvous point, they form an unlikely bond that transcends their otherworldly differences. The visuals and score hold up remarkably well, and Carpenter’s direction brings the story to life in a unique way that stays with you. If you're feeling contemplative, this is a must-watch.

Click here for movie trailer.

The Fifth Element (1997)

  • Starring: Bruce Willis, Milla Jovovich, Gary Oldman
  • Directed by: Luc Besson
  • Genre: Sci-Fi Action
  • Rating: PG-13
  • Rotten Tomatoes Score: 71%
  • IMDB Score: 7.5

This colorful sci-fi romp from the '90s is a space opera like no other. Set in a futuristic, wildly imaginative world,The Fifth Element follows Korben Dallas (Bruce Willis), a taxi driver who ends up entangled in a plot to save the universe from impending doom, with the help of an alien being named Leeloo (Milla Jovovich). It’s a high-energy adventure that doesn’t take itself too seriously—perfect for a fun, immersive watch.

Click here for the movie trailer

Galaxy Quest (1999)

  • Starring: Tim Allen, Sigourney Weaver, Alan Rickman
  • Directed by: Dean Parisot
  • Genre: Sci-Fi Comedy
  • Rating: PG
  • Rotten Tomatoes Score: 90%
  • IMDB Score: 7.4

If you’re looking for laughs, Galaxy Quest is the ultimate alien comedy. The film follows the washed-up cast of a space opera TV show who accidentally get caught up in an actual intergalactic conflict. With its clever parody of Star Trek and spot-on humor, it’s a hilarious ride. Tim Allen, Sigourney Weaver, and Alan Rickman deliver excellent comedic performances, making it a great pick for a light-hearted watch.

Click here for the movie trailer.

Annihilation (2018)

  • Starring: Natalie Portman, Jennifer Jason Leigh, Gina Rodriguez
  • Directed by: Alex Garland
  • Genre: Sci-Fi Horror
  • Rating: R
  • Rotten Tomatoes Score: 88%
  • IMDB Score: 6.8

For the horror fans out there, Annihilation is a gripping, eerie exploration of alien life. When a biologist (Natalie Portman) joins a team to investigate a mysterious region known as “The Shimmer,” where the laws of nature are distorted, they encounter terrifying creatures and bizarre mutations. It’s mind-bending and thought-provoking, with an intense atmosphere and surreal visuals that’ll keep you hooked from start to finish.

Click here for movie trailer

Edge of Tomorrow (2014)

  • Starring: Tom Cruise, Emily Blunt
  • Directed by: Doug Liman
  • Genre: Sci-Fi Action
  • Rating: PG-13
  • Rotten Tomatoes Score: 91%
  • IMDB Score: 7.9

Imagine Groundhog Day meets Aliens, and you’ve got Edge of Tomorrow. An alien race has taken over Europe, and Major William Cage (Tom Cruise) finds himself reliving the same battle every time he dies. With each loop, he gains valuable skills and insights, working alongside a skilled warrior (Emily Blunt) to turn the tide of the war. The plot is clever, the action is relentless, and the special effects are top-notch. It’s an exhilarating ride that you might just want to watch on repeat.

Click here for movie trailer.

Arrival (2016)

  • Starring: Amy Adams, Jeremy Renner
  • Directed by: Denis Villeneuve
  • Genre: Sci-Fi Drama
  • Rating: PG-13
  • Rotten Tomatoes Score: 95%
  • IMDB Score: 7.9

Finally, Arrival is a haunting, contemplative film about language, time, and human connection. When alien ships appear worldwide, linguist Louise Banks (Amy Adams) is called in to establish communication and uncover their purpose. The aliens and visuals are fascinating, but the story’s deep emotional layers are what really set it apart. With a brilliant soundtrack and Villeneuve’s unique style, it’s a mind-bending journey.

Click here for movie trailer.

Give any of these a try for an alien-inspired movie night. You might find yourself seeing things a little differently!

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