Are you ready to embark on an interstellar adventure where the stakes are high and the action is out of this world? This curated list of space commando action films will take you through the cosmos with elite squads facing off against alien threats, rogue AI, and interstellar conflicts. Whether you're a fan of sci-fi, action, or just love a good space opera, these films offer a blend of adrenaline-pumping sequences and captivating narratives that will keep you on the edge of your seat.

Battle Beyond the Stars (1980)
Description: A young farmer recruits a team of space mercenaries, including a commando-like character, to defend his planet from an evil space tyrant.
Fact: The film was inspired by Akira Kurosawa's "The Seven Samurai" and features early special effects work by James Cameron.


Outland (1981)
Description: Set on a mining colony in space, a lone marshal, akin to a space commando, fights against corruption and a drug-induced worker riot.
Fact: Sean Connery stars as the marshal, and the film was inspired by "High Noon," set in space.


The Last Starfighter (1984)
Description: A video game expert is recruited by an alien race to join their elite space commando force to defend the galaxy from an evil empire.
Fact: The film was one of the first to use CGI for its space battle scenes, pioneering the use of computer graphics in cinema.


Soldier (1998)
Description: Kurt Russell stars as Todd, a genetically engineered soldier trained for interstellar combat. When he's deemed obsolete, he must prove his worth against a new breed of super-soldiers.
Fact: The film was directed by Paul W.S. Anderson, known for his work on the "Resident Evil" series. It was initially conceived as a sequel to "Blade Runner" but evolved into its own story.


Space Truckers (1996)
Description: In this action-comedy, space truckers inadvertently get involved in a battle against a rogue AI, showcasing a unique take on space commandos.
Fact: The film stars Dennis Hopper and Charles Dance, and was directed by Stuart Gordon, known for his work on horror films like "Re-Animator."


Starship Troopers (1997)
Description: This satirical sci-fi action film follows the Mobile Infantry, an elite space commando unit, as they battle against giant alien bugs. It's a perfect blend of action, horror, and social commentary, making it a must-watch for fans of space warfare.
Fact: The film was initially misunderstood as a straightforward action flick but is actually a critique of fascist militarism. The bugs were designed by Phil Tippett, who also worked on "Jurassic Park."


The Chronicles of Riddick (2004)
Description: Riddick, a notorious criminal, becomes the unlikely savior of humanity when he leads a group of space commandos against the Necromongers, an alien race bent on conquering the universe.
Fact: Vin Diesel not only starred in the film but also helped finance it through his production company. The film's universe was expanded with a prequel animated film and a video game.


Avatar (2009)
Description: Although primarily set on the alien world of Pandora, the film features a human military force with space commando capabilities, engaging in high-stakes action against the native Na'vi.
Fact: James Cameron spent over a decade developing the technology needed to bring Pandora to life. The film was the highest-grossing movie of all time until "Avengers: Endgame."


G.I. Joe: The Rise of Cobra (2009)
Description: While not exclusively set in space, the G.I. Joe team, including space commandos, battles the evil organization Cobra, with high-tech weaponry and interstellar missions.
Fact: The film features a cameo by Arnold Vosloo, who played Imhotep in "The Mummy" series. The G.I. Joe franchise has a rich history in both comics and animated series.


Wing Commander (1999)
Description: Based on the popular video game, this film follows space pilots, essentially space commandos, in their fight against the Kilrathi, an alien race bent on destroying humanity.
Fact: The film was directed by Chris Roberts, the creator of the "Wing Commander" video game series. It features early CGI space battles.
