10 Space Horror Films That Will Chill You to the Bone

Description: A masterclass in suspense and horror, "Alien" introduces us to the xenomorph, a creature that embodies the terror of the unknown in space. The film's setting on a commercial towing spaceship, the Nostromo, adds to the feeling of isolation and vulnerability.

Fact: The chestburster scene was kept secret from most of the cast to capture genuine reactions. The film was originally pitched with the tagline "In space no one can hear you scream."

Description: This film explores the psychological horror of space travel when a rescue crew discovers a spaceship that has returned from a black hole with something sinister aboard. The concept of a ship that can travel through space and time adds a unique twist to the genre.

Fact: The film was heavily edited before release, with much of the original, more graphic content being cut. The director's cut is rumored to be much darker and more intense.

Description: Although more of a sci-fi action film, "Pitch Black" features horror elements with its setting on a planet where darkness brings out deadly creatures. The film's premise of being stranded on an alien world with no light adds to the horror atmosphere.

Fact: The film introduced the character Riddick, played by Vin Diesel, who would become a cult icon. The creatures were designed by Patrick Tatopoulos, known for his work on "Godzilla."

Description: While not strictly a horror film, "Sunshine" blends science fiction with elements of psychological horror as a crew on a mission to reignite the dying sun faces unexpected challenges. The film's exploration of isolation and existential dread fits perfectly into this collection.

Fact: The film's director, Danny Boyle, also directed "28 Days Later," another film with horror elements. The ending of "Sunshine" was controversial among fans for its shift in tone.

Description: "Pandorum" delves into the psychological effects of space travel, where crew members aboard a spacecraft suffer from a form of space madness. The film's setting on a massive ship with unknown horrors lurking in its depths makes for a gripping narrative.

Fact: The term "Pandorum" was coined for the film, describing a form of space-induced psychosis. The movie was shot in Germany, with many scenes filmed in an abandoned steel mill.

Description: This film follows a crew on a mission to explore Europa, one of Jupiter's moons, where they encounter something unexpected. The found footage style adds to the realism and horror of their discoveries.

Fact: The film was praised for its scientific accuracy and realistic portrayal of space travel. It was shot in a way to mimic actual space footage, enhancing the documentary-like feel.

Description: A contemporary take on the alien horror genre, "Life" follows an international crew aboard the International Space Station as they discover a rapidly evolving life form that proves to be deadly. The film's tension builds from the confined space of the ISS.

Fact: The film was originally titled "The Martian" but was changed to avoid confusion with the Matt Damon film. The creature in the film was designed by Weta Workshop, known for their work on "The Lord of the Rings."

Description: Based on the video game, this animated film tells the story of the events leading up to the game, where a mining ship encounters a deadly alien artifact. The horror is amplified by the game's iconic necromorphs.

Fact: The film was released directly to DVD and was intended to bridge the gap between the first and second games in the "Dead Space" series. It was well-received for its fidelity to the game's atmosphere.

Description: While not set entirely in space, this film features an alien invasion in Moscow where the aliens are invisible to the human eye, creating a unique horror experience. The film's setting in a city under siege adds to the terror.

Fact: The film was originally conceived as a found footage movie but was changed during production. It was one of the first major Hollywood films to be shot in Russia.

Description: This film expands the Cloverfield universe into space, where an experiment to solve Earth's energy crisis goes awry, leading to terrifying consequences. The horror comes from the unknown effects of the experiment on both the crew and Earth.

Fact: The film was released directly to Netflix after a surprise announcement during the Super Bowl. It was originally intended for theatrical release.