Embark on a cinematic journey to the Red Planet with our handpicked selection of family-friendly movies about Mars. These films not only entertain but also spark curiosity about space exploration, making them a great choice for family movie nights or educational viewing. From heartwarming tales to thrilling adventures, these movies offer a blend of fun, science, and imagination that will captivate viewers of all ages.

Robinson Crusoe on Mars (1964)
Description: A retelling of the classic tale set on Mars, where an astronaut must survive alone after crash-landing. It's an educational and adventurous film for families interested in space survival scenarios.
Fact: This was one of the first films to depict a human living on Mars, predating many modern Mars movies.


Santa Claus Conquers the Martians (1964)
Description: In this quirky holiday film, Martians kidnap Santa Claus to bring joy to their children. It's a light-hearted, campy adventure that's perfect for families looking for a laugh.
Fact: This film has become a cult classic, often cited for its low budget and unintentionally humorous moments.


Mars Attacks! (1996)
Description: This satirical comedy features Martians invading Earth with disastrously funny results. It's a family-friendly film with a humorous take on alien invasion tropes.
Fact: The film was inspired by a set of trading cards from the 1960s, and Tim Burton's distinctive style adds to its quirky charm.


Mission to Mars (2000)
Description: This film follows a rescue mission to Mars after a mysterious disaster strikes the first human colony there. It's a perfect blend of adventure and family-friendly science fiction, exploring themes of human spirit and survival.
Fact: The film was directed by Brian De Palma, known for his work in thrillers, bringing a unique touch to this sci-fi adventure. The Mars landscape was created using a combination of real locations in Jordan and CGI.


Red Planet (2000)
Description: A team of astronauts is sent to Mars to terraform it, but things go awry, leading to a survival story. It's a thrilling adventure with themes of human survival and the ethics of space colonization.
Fact: The film features real-life astronaut Buzz Aldrin in a cameo role.


Ghosts of Mars (2001)
Description: This film blends sci-fi with horror, focusing on a police force on Mars dealing with an ancient Martian civilization's spirits. It's more suited for older teens and adults but offers a unique take on Mars lore.
Fact: John Carpenter, known for his horror films, directed this movie, bringing his signature style to the Martian setting.


John Carter (2012)
Description: Although not exclusively about Mars, this film features a Civil War veteran transported to Mars, where he becomes embroiled in a conflict between inhabitants. It's an epic adventure with themes of heroism and exploration.
Fact: The film is based on Edgar Rice Burroughs' "A Princess of Mars," which inspired many sci-fi stories. It was one of the most expensive films ever made at the time of its release.


Mars Needs Moms (2011)
Description: A young boy embarks on a mission to save his mother from Martians who need her to raise their children. It's a heartwarming story with a focus on family values and the bond between parent and child.
Fact: The film uses motion capture technology to create the Martian characters, with Seth Green providing the voice for the main character.


The Last Days on Mars (2013)
Description: While not strictly family-friendly, this film can be enjoyed by older children and teens. It's about a group of astronauts on Mars who encounter a deadly threat. It's a suspenseful tale that delves into the darker side of space exploration.
Fact: The film was inspired by the short story "The Animators" by Sydney J. Bounds.


The Martian (2015)
Description: Based on the novel by Andy Weir, this film tells the story of astronaut Mark Watney, who must survive alone on Mars after being presumed dead. It's an inspiring tale of human ingenuity and resilience, suitable for older children and adults.
Fact: Matt Damon, who plays Watney, actually grew real potatoes in simulated Martian soil for the film. The movie was praised for its scientific accuracy.
