10 Fantasy Films About Astronauts

Description: The crew of the USS Enterprise embarks on a mission to intercept an alien entity threatening Earth, blending science fiction with elements of fantasy in its exploration of the unknown.

Fact: This was the first Star Trek film, and it was intended to be a grand, epic space opera. The film's special effects were groundbreaking at the time, earning it an Academy Award nomination.

Description: A young arcade game champion is recruited by an alien race to fight in an interstellar war, blending video game fantasy with space adventure.

Fact: The film was one of the first to use CGI for its space scenes, pioneering the use of computer-generated imagery in movies. The arcade game in the movie was actually created and functional.

Description: In a futuristic world, a cab driver named Korben Dallas becomes embroiled in a cosmic battle involving a mysterious fifth element, Leeloo, who holds the key to saving Earth from an ancient evil.

Fact: The film was originally conceived as a comic book by Luc Besson. Milla Jovovich, who plays Leeloo, learned an alien language for the role, which was created by Besson and his wife.

Description: Although not initially about astronauts, Riddick's journey takes him to different planets and involves space travel, with elements of fantasy in its universe.

Fact: Vin Diesel, who plays Riddick, also provided the voice for the character in the animated prequel, "The Chronicles of Riddick: Dark Fury."

Description: A psychologist is sent to investigate the mysterious happenings on a space station orbiting the planet Solaris, where the crew encounters manifestations of their subconscious desires.

Fact: This is a remake of the 1972 Soviet film by Andrei Tarkovsky, which was itself based on the novel by Stanisław Lem. Steven Soderbergh, the director, also served as the cinematographer for this film.

Description: Arthur Dent, an ordinary human, is saved by his alien friend Ford Prefect just before Earth is demolished to make way for a hyperspace bypass, leading to a fantastical journey through space.

Fact: The film is based on Douglas Adams' cult classic book series. The movie includes a cameo by the author himself, who passed away before its release.

Description: While not strictly about astronauts, Jake Sully's journey to Pandora involves space travel and encounters with the fantastical Na'vi, making it a fitting inclusion in this list.

Fact: James Cameron developed the technology for 3D filming specifically for this movie, which became the highest-grossing film of all time until it was surpassed by "Avengers: Endgame."

Description: A young woman discovers she's the genetic reincarnation of a galactic queen, leading to an epic space adventure filled with royal intrigue, alien species, and cosmic battles.

Fact: The film was directed by the Wachowskis, known for "The Matrix," and features elaborate world-building with a budget of over $176 million. Mila Kunis underwent extensive training for her role as Jupiter Jones.

Description: This Marvel blockbuster follows a group of misfit space adventurers led by Peter Quill, aka Star-Lord, who must unite to save the galaxy from a powerful villain. It's a blend of space opera and fantasy with a touch of humor and heart.

Fact: The film's soundtrack, "Awesome Mix Vol. 1," became a cultural phenomenon, featuring classic '70s and '80s hits. Chris Pratt, who plays Star-Lord, lost over 60 pounds to get into shape for the role.

Description: Based on the French comic series, this film follows two special operatives, Valerian and Laureline, as they navigate through a sprawling space station filled with diverse alien species and fantastical adventures.

Fact: The film's visual effects were so extensive that it took over 3,000 artists to complete them. The movie features a cameo by Rihanna as a shape-shifting performer.