The Northern Lights, or Aurora Borealis, have long been a source of inspiration and wonder, captivating audiences with their ethereal dance across the night sky. This curated list of films not only showcases this natural phenomenon but also weaves it into narratives that explore themes of love, adventure, and the mysteries of the natural world. Whether you're a fan of romance, drama, or documentaries, these films offer a visual feast of the Northern Lights, making you feel as if you're right there under the Arctic sky.

The Thing (1982)
Description: Set in Antarctica, this sci-fi horror film features the Northern Lights in its opening scenes, setting an eerie tone for the isolation and terror that follows.
Fact: The film's director, John Carpenter, used the Aurora Borealis to enhance the otherworldly feel of the setting.


Insomnia (2002)
Description: In this psychological thriller, the Northern Lights serve as a haunting backdrop to the story of a detective investigating a murder in Alaska. The eerie light of the Aurora adds to the film's tense atmosphere.
Fact: The film was shot in Canada, but the setting is meant to be Alaska. The Northern Lights scenes were enhanced with CGI to make them more vivid.


The Day After Tomorrow (2004)
Description: This disaster film includes a scene where the Northern Lights are visible over New York City, a surreal sight amidst the chaos of a new ice age.
Fact: The film's special effects team created a realistic depiction of the Aurora Borealis, which was praised for its accuracy.


The Polar Express (2004)
Description: While primarily an animated Christmas tale, the film includes a magical scene where the Northern Lights guide the train, adding to the story's wonder.
Fact: The Northern Lights in this film were created using advanced CGI to give them a dreamlike quality.


The Secret Life of Walter Mitty (2013)
Description: This film follows Walter Mitty, a daydreamer who embarks on a global adventure to find a missing negative, leading him to witness the Northern Lights in Iceland. The breathtaking scenes of the Aurora Borealis are a pivotal part of his journey of self-discovery.
Fact: The film's director, Ben Stiller, also stars as Walter Mitty. The scene with the Northern Lights was shot in real-time, capturing the natural beauty of the phenomenon.


Into the Wild (2007)
Description: The Northern Lights appear in a pivotal scene where the protagonist, Chris McCandless, experiences the beauty of Alaska, symbolizing his quest for freedom and solitude.
Fact: The film was shot in various locations, including Alaska, where the Northern Lights were captured in their natural splendor.


The Revenant (2015)
Description: While not primarily about the Northern Lights, this survival epic features stunning scenes of the Aurora Borealis, enhancing the film's portrayal of the harsh, yet beautiful, wilderness.
Fact: The film's director, Alejandro González Iñárritu, insisted on shooting in natural light, which included capturing the Northern Lights in real-time.


The Finest Hours (2016)
Description: Although not directly about the Northern Lights, the film includes a scene where the Aurora Borealis lights up the sky during a rescue mission, adding a touch of beauty to the perilous situation.
Fact: The Northern Lights scene was added to enhance the dramatic effect of the rescue operation.


The Northern Lights: A Journey to Love (2018)
Description: This romantic drama follows a couple whose relationship is rekindled under the mesmerizing glow of the Northern Lights, showcasing the Aurora as a symbol of renewal and love.
Fact: The film was shot in Norway, known for its frequent and spectacular displays of the Northern Lights.


The Snow Walker (2003)
Description: This survival drama set in the Canadian Arctic features the Northern Lights as a symbol of hope and guidance for the characters stranded in the wilderness.
Fact: The film was shot in Nunavut, Canada, where the Northern Lights are a frequent occurrence.
