Mystical Journeys: 10 Films on Astral Travel

Description: While primarily a comedy, this film includes a dream sequence where the main characters experience an out-of-body adventure, offering a humorous take on astral travel.

Fact: The film was remade in 1999 with Steve Martin and Goldie Hawn. The original, starring Jack Lemmon and Sandy Dennis, was more critically acclaimed.

Description: After waking from a coma, Johnny Smith discovers he can see the future through physical contact. While not astral travel per se, his visions often involve out-of-body experiences, exploring the metaphysical aspects of consciousness.

Fact: The film was directed by David Cronenberg, known for his body horror themes. Stephen King, the author of the book, was initially skeptical about the film adaptation but later praised Cronenberg's work.

Description: A convict with the ability to astral project uses his powers to escape prison and seek revenge, leading to a series of mysterious murders. This lesser-known film provides a unique twist on the astral travel theme.

Fact: The film was released under several titles, including "The Astral Factor" and "The Astral Fiend." It's one of the earlier films to explore astral projection in a horror context.

Description: A group of medical students experiment with near-death experiences to explore what lies beyond life, inadvertently triggering astral travel and confronting their past sins. This film delves into the psychological and spiritual consequences of such experiments.

Fact: The film was remade in 2017 with a new cast but didn't capture the same eerie atmosphere as the original. Kiefer Sutherland's character, Nelson, was originally written for a female actor.

Description: A psychologist enters the mind of a comatose serial killer to find his latest victim, using a technology that allows her to experience his subconscious. While not strictly astral travel, the film explores similar themes of consciousness exploration and psychic journeys.

Fact: The film's surreal visual style was heavily influenced by the works of Salvador Dalí and H.R. Giger. Jennifer Lopez's performance was critically acclaimed, marking a shift in her career towards more dramatic roles.

Description: A hospice nurse discovers the secrets of hoodoo magic in a Louisiana plantation house, where the concept of astral projection plays a crucial role in the unfolding mystery and horror.

Fact: The film was shot in New Orleans, which adds to its eerie atmosphere. The house used in the film is reportedly haunted in real life.

Description: Stephen Strange, a brilliant but arrogant surgeon, learns the mystic arts after a life-altering accident. His journey includes astral projection, which becomes a key element in his battle against dark forces, showcasing the Marvel Cinematic Universe's take on astral travel.

Fact: Benedict Cumberbatch, who plays Doctor Strange, actually learned real magic tricks for the role. The film's visual effects were inspired by the works of M.C. Escher.

Description: This horror film introduces us to the Lambert family, where young Dalton falls into a coma after astral projecting into the Further, a realm filled with malevolent spirits. It's a chilling exploration of astral travel gone wrong, blending family drama with supernatural terror.

Fact: The film was originally conceived as a sequel to "Paranormal Activity," but evolved into its own unique story. It also features a memorable score by Joseph Bishara, who also plays the Lipstick-Face Demon.

Description: This sequel to "The Exorcist" features a detective investigating a series of murders linked to demonic possession, with elements of astral projection used to explain the killer's ability to move between bodies.

Fact: The film was based on William Peter Blatty's novel "Legion," which was initially intended as a standalone story. George C. Scott's performance as Detective Kinderman was highly praised.

Description: An American woman inherits a hotel in Louisiana, which turns out to be a gateway to hell. The film explores themes of astral travel through its surreal, dream-like sequences and the concept of the Seven Gates of Hell.

Fact: Directed by Lucio Fulci, known for his gory horror films. The film's ending was famously changed by the distributor, leading to two different versions being released.