10 Movies & Shows Like Apollo 13 (1995)

Description: 2001: A Space Odyssey, like Apollo 13, is a landmark in realistic space depiction, though it's more abstract and philosophical. Both films showcase the technical marvels of space travel and humanity's place in the universe.

Fact: Directed by Stanley Kubrick, the film is renowned for its special effects. The iconic 'Blue Danube' waltz is used during the space station docking scene. The film's ending remains one of the most debated in cinema history.

Description: The Right Stuff, like Apollo 13, is a historical drama about the early days of NASA and the Mercury Seven astronauts. Both films celebrate the bravery and camaraderie of astronauts, with a mix of humor and tension.

Fact: The Right Stuff is based on Tom Wolfe's book of the same name. The film won four Academy Awards. It features a young Sam Shepard as Chuck Yeager.

Description: Contact, like Apollo 13, is grounded in real science and explores humanity's quest for knowledge beyond Earth. Both films feature strong female leads and emphasize the importance of scientific inquiry and perseverance.

Fact: Contact is based on a novel by Carl Sagan. Jodie Foster's character is inspired by real-life astronomer Jill Tarter. The film blends science fiction with philosophical questions about existence.

Description: Like Apollo 13, Interstellar explores the human spirit of exploration and the risks of space travel. Both films blend scientific accuracy with emotional storytelling, though Interstellar delves more into theoretical physics and time dilation.

Fact: Interstellar's black hole visuals were based on real scientific equations. Hans Zimmer's score used a pipe organ for a unique sound. Matthew McConaughey's emotional performance was highly praised.

Description: Moon, like Apollo 13, deals with isolation and survival in space, though it leans more into psychological drama and sci-fi. Both films explore the human condition under extreme circumstances, with a focus on the astronaut's perspective.

Fact: Moon was directed by Duncan Jones, David Bowie's son. The film was made on a modest budget but received critical acclaim. Sam Rockwell's performance is essentially a one-man show.

Description: First Man, like Apollo 13, is a historical drama about NASA's space missions, focusing on Neil Armstrong's journey to the moon. Both films highlight the personal sacrifices and dangers of space exploration, with a strong emphasis on realism.

Fact: First Man was directed by Damien Chazelle, who also directed La La Land. The film used practical effects to recreate the moon landing. Ryan Gosling trained with NASA to prepare for his role as Neil Armstrong.

Description: Gravity shares with Apollo 13 the theme of astronauts facing life-threatening situations in space. Both films emphasize the isolation and vulnerability of humans in the vastness of space, with intense, realistic depictions of space travel.

Fact: Gravity was filmed using innovative technology to simulate zero gravity. Sandra Bullock's performance earned her an Academy Award nomination. The film won 7 Oscars, including Best Director for Alfonso Cuarón.

Description: Ad Astra shares with Apollo 13 a realistic portrayal of space travel and its psychological toll on astronauts. Both films combine personal drama with the grandeur of space exploration, though Ad Astra has a more introspective and philosophical tone.

Fact: Ad Astra stars Brad Pitt as an astronaut searching for his father. The film's title means 'to the stars' in Latin. It was praised for its stunning visuals and sound design.

Description: Similar to Apollo 13, The Martian is a gripping survival story set in space, focusing on human ingenuity and teamwork to overcome seemingly insurmountable odds. Both films highlight NASA's problem-solving capabilities and the resilience of astronauts.

Fact: The Martian was directed by Ridley Scott, known for his visually stunning films. Matt Damon's character grows potatoes on Mars, a concept based on real science. The film won the Golden Globe for Best Motion Picture – Musical or Comedy.

Description: Hidden Figures shares with Apollo 13 the backdrop of NASA's space missions and the unsung heroes behind them. Both films celebrate teamwork and human ingenuity, though Hidden Figures focuses on the contributions of African-American women mathematicians.

Fact: Hidden Figures is based on a true story. The film was nominated for three Academy Awards, including Best Picture. Taraji P. Henson, Octavia Spencer, and Janelle Monáe starred as the lead characters.