10 Movies Like The Earthling (1980)

Description: A classic tale of an alien visitor delivering a message of peace, blending sci-fi with Cold War-era social commentary.

Fact: The robot Gort was played by a 7-foot-7 actor in a suit. The film's message about nuclear disarmament was groundbreaking for its time.

Description: A surreal and introspective take on an extraterrestrial being's experience on Earth, dealing with isolation and human vices.

Fact: David Bowie's first major film role, and his otherworldly persona was a perfect fit for the alien character. The film's visual style is highly distinctive and artistic.

Description: Focuses on human-alien communication and the awe-inspiring mystery of extraterrestrial contact, with a strong emotional core.

Fact: The film's five-note musical motif was created using hand signals from a real-life communication method for the deaf. The mothership's design was inspired by a city skyline.

Description: A heartwarming story of friendship between a child and a stranded alien, emphasizing emotional connection and wonder.

Fact: The iconic bicycle flight scene was filmed against a blue screen, with the moon added in post-production. The film's score is one of the most recognizable in cinema history.

Description: Explores themes of an alien visitor adapting to human society, blending science fiction with emotional depth and a road trip narrative.

Fact: The film was originally intended to be a sequel to 'Close Encounters of the Third Kind' but evolved into its own story. It features a unique blend of romance and sci-fi.

Description: A story of enemies becoming allies, focusing on the relationship between a human and an alien stranded together.

Fact: The alien makeup took over five hours to apply each day. The film's themes of understanding and cooperation were unusual for Cold War-era sci-fi.

Description: Combines deep-sea adventure with first contact themes, featuring mysterious non-human intelligence and human drama.

Fact: The underwater scenes were filmed in an actual abandoned nuclear reactor. The production was notoriously difficult, with actors spending long hours submerged.

Description: Explores the scientific and philosophical implications of first contact with extraterrestrial intelligence, grounded in realism.

Fact: The film's radio telescope scenes were shot at the Very Large Array in New Mexico. Jodie Foster trained with real astronomers to prepare for her role.

Description: A gritty, socially conscious story about aliens stranded on Earth, exploring themes of segregation and humanity.

Fact: The film was shot documentary-style to enhance realism. Its modest budget belies its impressive visual effects and critical success.

Description: A cerebral take on alien contact focusing on language and communication, with a deeply emotional human story at its core.

Fact: The alien language was created by a real linguist. The film's non-linear narrative structure mirrors the aliens' perception of time.