The 30+ Best Mars Films

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Updated February 1, 2024 120.4K views 33 items
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Vote up your favorite movies that take place on or are about Mars.

More than 1,100 movie fans have come together to cast their votes for the best Mars movies. With a rich legacy of sci-fi films inspired by the red planet, these are some of the most beloved titles in cinematic history. From thrilling interplanetary adventures to captivating explorations of human emotion and morality, these Mars movies provide an entertaining escape from reality while still offering plenty of food for thought.

From classics such as Total Recall and Red Planet to more recent hits like The Martian and Ad Astra, there's something here for everyone who loves science fiction stories set on Mars. These films explore a variety of themes ranging from terraforming experiments gone wrong to mysterious civilizations harboring ancient secrets beneath the surface. They also feature stunning visuals that help bring this distant world closer to home with each passing scene.

So why not check out our list below, vote up your favorites, and get ready for a trip beyond Earth? Whether you’re looking for intense action or philosophical musings about life in space, you're sure to find something worth watching among these top-ranked Mars movies.

Most divisive: RocketMan
Over 1.1K Ranker voters have come together to rank this list of The 30+ Best Mars Films
  • The Martian
    1
    Matt Damon, Jessica Chastain, Chiwetel Ejiofor
    265 votes

    This riveting tale of survival is a tribute to human ingenuity and resilience in the face of seemingly insurmountable odds. The protagonist, an astronaut accidentally left behind on the red planet, fights for survival while his crewmates scramble to rescue him. With breathtaking cinematography and a stellar cast, this movie is a must-watch for anyone who has ever dared to dream about exploring the cosmos.

  • Total Recall
    2
    Arnold Schwarzenegger, Rachel Ticotin, Sharon Stone
    262 votes

    In this futuristic romp, viewers are taken on a thrilling ride through memory manipulation, corporate espionage, and Martian intrigue. As the protagonist grapples with the question of what's real and what's mere fabrication, audiences are treated to stunning visuals and mind-bending twists that will keep them on the edge of their seats. This cult classic is a feast for the senses and an absolute roller coaster ride from start to finish.

  • Red Planet
    3
    Val Kilmer, Carrie-Anne Moss, Tom Sizemore
    203 votes

    A nail-biting chronicle of humanity's first manned mission to Mars, this film weaves together a tense narrative with striking effects to create a compelling drama. With Earth on the brink of environmental collapse, a crew of brave astronauts embarks on a dangerous voyage to find salvation for humankind on the enigmatic red soil of Mars. The harrowing trials they face capture the imagination and showcase both the fragility and tenacity of the human spirit.

  • Mission to Mars
    4
    Gary Sinise, Tim Robbins, Don Cheadle
    227 votes

    This visually stunning space epic transports viewers across the cosmos as they follow a team of astronauts on a daring mission to uncover the secrets of Mars. When an enigmatic force threatens their journey, they must band together and overcome near-impossible odds to reveal the truth behind one of the universe's most captivating mysteries. A true celebration of human ingenuity and perseverance, this movie is guaranteed to captivate audiences from start to finish.

  • John Carter
    5
    Taylor Kitsch, Lynn Collins, Willem Dafoe
    226 votes

    An action-packed adventure that transcends both time and space, this film follows its titular hero - a Civil War veteran - as he suddenly finds himself transported to the hostile surface of Mars. Thrust into a deadly and complex conflict between warring tribes, John must harness newfound powers and unite with unexpected allies to reshape the face of an alien world. Brimming with stunning visuals and heart-pounding excitement, this movie is sure to captivate fans of high-stakes action and interplanetary intrigue.

  • Mars
    6

    Mars

    Mark Duplass, Cynthia Watros, Kinky Friedman
    30 votes

    In this thought-provoking drama, six astronauts embark on a one-way mission to colonize the red planet, grappling with personal demons and tense relationships along the way. As they struggle to forge a new life on an increasingly hostile world, viewers are treated to deep character development and stunning Martian landscapes that will leave them in awe. A moving exploration of human nature and the sacrifices that must be made for the greater good, this film is not to be missed.

  • Robinson Crusoe on Mars
    7
    Adam West, Paul Mantee, Victor Lundin
    70 votes

    A captivating take on the classic story of shipwrecked survival, this movie transports a lone astronaut to the unforgiving terrain of Mars where he must rely on his wits and ingenuity to stay alive. With only his trusty robot companion by his side, he battles extreme conditions, extraterrestrial threats, and crushing isolation as he endeavors to find a way back home. This enthralling tale is a testament to strength of the human spirit.

  • Mars Attacks!
    8
    Jack Nicholson, Glenn Close, Annette Bening
    165 votes

    This zany, satirical romp is a delightfully absurd take on the classic alien invasion storyline, complete with hilariously grotesque Martians and their outrageous attempts at world domination. Featuring an ensemble cast of Hollywood's finest, this laugh-a-minute adventure sees humanity thrust into a life-or-death struggle against a seemingly irrepressible foe. With its tongue-in-cheek humor and nonstop action, this cult classic is truly out-of-this-world entertainment.

  • Life
    9
    Jake Gyllenhaal, Rebecca Ferguson, Ryan Reynolds
    17 votes

    When an international crew aboard the International Space Station discovers the first signs of extraterrestrial life on Mars, they are ecstatic - until it quickly becomes clear that the creature is not only alive but incredibly dangerous. As panic and chaos ensue, the crew must devise a cunning plan to contain the threat and protect Earth from potential catastrophe. This gripping thriller masterfully blends horror and science fiction elements to create a truly intense and unforgettable viewing experience.

  • Ghosts of Mars
    10
    Ice Cube, Jason Statham, Natasha Henstridge
    121 votes

    Set in the distant future, this eerie sci-fi horror flick sees a remote mining colony on Mars overrun by an ancient force that possesses its inhabitants. When a team of officers arrives to transport a dangerous prisoner, they find themselves in the midst of a terrifying battle against time and nightmarish foes. Rich with atmospheric tension and blood-curdling thrills, this movie is a chilling journey into humanity's darkest fears.

  • Doom
    11
    Dwayne Johnson, Karl Urban, Rosamund Pike
    145 votes

    This adrenaline-fueled action film, based on the popular video game franchise, plunges viewers into a nightmare scenario where a team of elite soldiers confronts unspeakable horrors on the Martian moon, Phobos. Featuring relentless suspense and pulse-pounding combat, this ultraviolent thrill ride offers edge-of-your-seat excitement for fans of heart-stopping action and gruesome monsters.

  • Flight to Mars
    12
    Cameron Mitchell, Marguerite Chapman, John Litel
    8 votes

    As one of the earliest space exploration films, this classic takes audiences on a fantastic journey to the red planet as a group of intrepid astronauts encounters an advanced Martian civilization. Packed with retro-futuristic effects and fascinating cultural exchanges between Earthlings and Martians, this time-honored adventure offers nostalgic charm and timeless wonder.

  • The Last Days on Mars
    13
    Liev Schreiber, Elias Koteas, Romola Garai
    22 votes

    On the eve of their return to Earth, a group of astronauts makes a terrifying discovery that threatens their very existence. This tense thriller sees the crew contending not only with an extraterrestrial menace but also with the collapse of trust and reason as they fight to survive their final hours on the red planet. Filled with nail-biting suspense and chilling imagery, this movie promises to keep viewers glued to their seats.

  • RocketMan
    14
    Harland Williams, Jessica Lundy, William Sadler
    89 votes

    This light-hearted comedy offers a delightful escape from reality, as a socially inept astronaut joins a mission to Mars only to find that his quirky personality might just save the day. With its clever mix of humor and heart, this offbeat flick charmingly showcases the power of friendship and self-belief in overcoming even the most insurmountable odds.

  • The Angry Red Planet
    15
    Gerald Mohr, Nora Hayden, Les Tremayne
    9 votes

    Featuring cutting-edge effects and a captivating storyline, this classic sci-fi adventure follows a team of astronauts as they journey to Mars, uncovering shocking secrets that could change the course of history. Audiences will be captivated by the film's groundbreaking special effects and thrilling encounters with otherworldly creatures, making it an unforgettable cinematic experience.

  • Ad Astra
    16
    Brad Pitt, Tommy Lee Jones, Ruth Negga
    18 votes

    Blending awe-inspiring visuals with a profound meditation on human nature, this poignant drama follows an astronaut's arduous mission across the stars in pursuit of his missing father. As he journeys through the outer reaches of the solar system - including a brief encounter with Mars - he must confront the demons of his past and reconcile the sacrifices made in the name of mankind's progress. A slow-burning epic, this film offers a breathtaking treat for both the eyes and the heart.

  • Red Planet Mars
    17
    Peter Graves, Marvin Miller, House Peters
    9 votes

    This thought-provoking film explores Cold War-era fears and paranoia as Earth receives mysterious messages from Mars, causing global upheaval and political intrigue. With its unique blend of science fiction and geopolitical drama, this movie offers a fascinating glimpse into mid-century cultural anxieties about technology and humanity's place in the universe.

  • The Space Between Us
    18
    Gary Oldman, Asa Butterfield, Carla Gugino
    11 votes

    This heartwarming romantic drama tells the story of two star-crossed lovers - one born on Earth, the other on Mars - who defy all odds to be together. As they navigate the challenges of young love and long-distance relationships, viewers will be captivated by the film's stunning visuals and earnest portrayal of human connection in the vastness of space.

  • Invaders from Mars
    19
    Helena Carter, Arthur Franz, Jimmy Hunt
    10 votes

    This cult classic features a young boy who discovers that his small town is being infiltrated by malevolent Martians bent on world domination. With its vibrant color palette and eerie atmosphere, this sci-fi horror flick provides audiences with an unforgettable ride into the realm of kitschy B-movie terror.

  • Lost on Mars
    20
    Kelli Wilson, Eric Shook, David Long
    89 votes

    A gripping tale of survival against all odds, this movie follows a group of astronauts who find themselves stranded on the treacherous surface of Mars. As they struggle to stay alive and find a way home, viewers are treated to a visceral, suspenseful exploration of humanity's resilience in the face of unimaginable adversity.

  • Stowaway
    21

    Stowaway

    Anna Kendrick, Daniel Dae Kim, Toni Collette
    14 votes

    In this tense space thriller, a crew of astronauts finds an unexpected passenger aboard their spacecraft, setting off a deadly chain of events as resources dwindle and trust disintegrates. Boasting remarkable performances and edge-of-your-seat suspense, this film offers a chilling depiction of the psychological and physical tolls of space travel.

  • My Favorite Martian
    22
    Christopher Lloyd, Jeff Daniels, Elizabeth Hurley
    78 votes

    Based on the beloved television series, this quirky comedy sees a hapless reporter befriend a charming Martian who accidentally crash-lands on Earth. As they work together to help their extraterrestrial friend return home, audiences are treated to plenty of laughs and heartwarming moments that demonstrate the power of friendship across even the widest cosmic divides.

  • Escape from Mars
    23

    Escape from Mars

    Christine Elise, Peter Outerbridge, Allison Hossack
    9 votes

    This thrilling adventure sees a group of astronauts embroiled in a desperate struggle for survival after an unexpected disaster on the Martian surface. As they face otherworldly threats and dwindling resources, they must marshal their wits and courage to outwit the alien terrors that await them at every turn.

  • Abbott and Costello Go to Mars
    24
    Anita Ekberg, Lou Costello, Harry Shearer
    9 votes

    Laughter abounds in this zany comedy that sees the iconic comedic duo accidentally rocketing themselves off to the red planet. Their misadventures include run-ins with a Martian city populated by beautiful women and wacky misunderstandings that showcase their trademark slapstick humor. This lighthearted romp provides ample entertainment for those looking for a break from more serious fare.

  • Empire of Danger
    25

    Empire of Danger

    Cindy Tozer, Traci Alms, Tatum Green
    70 votes

    In this gripping sci-fi thriller, a team of explorers discovers a long-lost Martian civilization teeming with danger and dark secrets. As they unravel the mysteries of the red planet, they must confront terrifying creatures and deadly traps - all while racing against time to save Earth from an impending catastrophe.

  • The Wizard of Mars
    26
    John Carradine, Vic McGee, Jerry Rannow
    8 votes

    In this unique spin on the classic tale of The Wizard of Oz, four astronauts find themselves stranded on Mars, where they encounter an ancient and powerful entity known as the Wizard. Along their journey through the surreal Martian landscape, they must overcome harrowing obstacles while seeking the Wizard's help to return home. Filled with imaginative visuals and otherworldly encounters, this film offers a fantastical escape into a realm of magic and wonder.

  • Mars Needs Moms
    27
    Seth Green, Dan Fogler, Elisabeth Harnois
    85 votes

    This heartwarming animated adventure follows a young boy who embarks on a daring mission to rescue his mother after she is abducted by Martians. Along the way, he learns valuable lessons about love, family, and sacrifice while teaming up with new friends to save the day. Perfect for family movie nights, this film tugs at the heartstrings and delights with its colorful animation.

  • Species II
    28
    Michael Madsen, Natasha Henstridge, Marg Helgenberger
    84 votes

    This pulse-pounding sci-fi horror sequel ups the ante with its terrifying blend of alien menace and deadly seduction. As Earth faces imminent doom from genetically engineered Martian creatures, the human race must band together and face its fears to stave off annihilation. Fans of the original film will appreciate the ramped-up action and suspense in this thrilling follow-up.

  • Race to Mars
    29
    Ron Lea, Macha Grenon, Michael Riley
    27 votes

    This exhilarating sci-fi drama chronicles the fierce international competition to be the first nation to establish a sustainable colony on Mars. As rivalries and ambitions collide, viewers are treated to a thrilling mix of political intrigue, cutting-edge technology, and breathtaking Martian landscapes. A riveting exploration of humanity's drive for progress and prestige, this film is a must-see for fans of space exploration.

  • Mars
    30

    Mars

    Shari Belafonte, Olivier Gruner, Gabriel Dell Jr.
    9 votes

    In this insightful documentary-style drama, an international team of astronauts sets out to explore the Martian landscape and test the limits of human endurance. Through their eyes, viewers are treated to pulse-pounding action, breathtaking cinematography, and powerful reflections on what it means to venture beyond Earth's boundaries.

  • Santa Claus Conquers the Martians
    31
    John Call, Leonard Hicks, Pia Zadora
    77 votes

    This campy holiday classic sees jolly old Saint Nick kidnapped by desperate Martians who want to bring happiness to their own Martian children. Along the way, Santa teaches them the true meaning of Christmas and spreads cheer throughout the cosmos. This bizarre yet endearing mashup of two beloved cultural icons offers plenty of laughs and kitschy charm for audiences of all ages.

  • Doom: Annihilation
    32
    Amy Manson, Dominic Mafham, Luke Allen-Gale
    15 votes

    Adapted from the popular video game franchise, this action-packed sequel follows a group of space marines as they battle demonic forces unleashed on a Martian moon. Filled with nail-biting suspense and explosive combat sequences, this film delivers adrenaline-fueled thrills for fans of gritty sci-fi action.

  • Settlers
    33
    Sofia Boutella, Ismael Cruz Cordova, Brooklynn Prince
    7 votes

    In this atmospheric thriller, a family attempts to establish a new life on Mars, but their tranquil existence is shattered when they encounter sinister threats lurking beneath the planet's surface. As they struggle to survive and protect their loved ones, viewers are immersed in a world of haunting beauty and heart-stopping danger. A mesmerizing journey into humanity's darker instincts, this film is as thought-provoking as it is chilling.