Top 10 Adventure Films About Mars Missions

Description: An astronaut stranded on Mars must survive alone, paralleling the classic tale of Robinson Crusoe. This film is one of the earliest to explore the theme of isolation on Mars.

Fact: The film was shot in Death Valley, California, to simulate the Martian landscape. It was one of the first films to use color to depict Mars.

Description: While not set on Mars, this film involves a faked Mars landing, exploring themes of government conspiracy and media manipulation.

Fact: The film's plot was inspired by conspiracy theories about the moon landings. It features real-life astronauts in cameo roles.

Description: A rescue mission to Mars turns into a discovery of alien life. This film combines adventure with the mystery of extraterrestrial existence, making it a unique entry in Mars mission films.

Fact: The film was directed by Brian De Palma, known for his work in suspense and thriller genres. The Mars scenes were shot in Canada's Badlands, which provided a realistic Martian landscape.

Description: A crew sent to terraform Mars faces numerous challenges, including a malfunctioning AI and hostile Martian environment. This film explores themes of survival and the ethics of space colonization.

Fact: The film features a cameo by Neil Armstrong, the first man on the moon. The special effects team created a detailed Martian landscape, which was praised for its realism.

Description: A futuristic Mars colony is terrorized by ancient Martian spirits. This film blends action, horror, and sci-fi, offering a different take on Mars exploration.

Fact: John Carpenter, known for his horror films, directed this movie, giving it a unique horror twist. The film's setting was inspired by the mining town of Bodie, California.

Description: Although not exclusively about Mars, the film features a Civil War veteran transported to Mars, where he becomes a hero. It's an epic adventure with a Mars setting.

Fact: The film is based on Edgar Rice Burroughs' "A Princess of Mars." Disney spent over $250 million on production, making it one of the most expensive films ever made at the time.

Description: Based on the video game, this film follows a team of space marines sent to Mars to investigate a disturbance, encountering mutated creatures.

Fact: Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson stars in this film, bringing his action-hero persona to the Martian setting. The film includes a first-person shooter sequence, paying homage to the game.

Description: A crew on Mars discovers a deadly virus, turning their mission into a fight for survival. This film delves into the darker side of space exploration.

Fact: The film was inspired by the short story "The Animators" by Sydney J. Bounds. It was shot in Jordan to mimic the Martian terrain.

Description: When astronaut Mark Watney is presumed dead and left behind on Mars, he must use his ingenuity to survive. This film captures the essence of human resilience against the backdrop of Mars' harsh environment.

Fact: The film was based on the novel by Andy Weir, who initially self-published the book. The potatoes grown by Watney in the film were real potatoes, grown in a simulated Martian soil.

Description: A young man, born on Mars, comes to Earth to find his father, experiencing life and love in a new world. This film combines adventure with a coming-of-age story.

Fact: The film was shot in New Mexico, which provided a Mars-like landscape. It explores themes of isolation and the human need for connection.