The 20 Best Movies Like 'Prometheus', Ranked By Fans

Based on the novel by Jeff VanderMeer, Annihilation follows a group of scientists who enter "The Shimmer," a mysterious and mutating region that defies the laws of nature. As they navigate through the surreal landscape filled with inexplicable phenomena and strange creatures, the team unravels the secrets of The Shimmer while facing their own innermost fears and desires. Led by Natalie Portman and an ensemble cast, Annihilation reflects on themes of self-destruction, evolution, and the blurred boundaries between humanity and alien entities.

In a similar vein to Prometheus, Annihilation explores the presence of mysterious lifeforms that challenge traditional concepts of existence and push characters to the brink of discovery and peril. Both films immerse viewers in worlds where the unknown reigns supreme, presenting surreal and mesmerizing encounters with enigmatic beings that defy human comprehension. Through stunning visuals and a relentless sense of unease, Annihilation and Prometheus provoke contemplation on the nature of life, evolution, and the eerie mysteries of encountering alien life forms in the uncharted territories of the universe.

In Event Horizon, a rescue crew investigates the mysterious reappearance of a spaceship that disappeared into a black hole. As they uncover the vessel's dark secrets and encounter otherworldly forces, the crew's sanity and survival are at stake in a chilling journey into the unknown.

Event Horizon mirrors Prometheus by showcasing a team of individuals embarking on a perilous mission of exploration, where they are confronted with unimaginable horrors and the consequences of delving into the enigmatic realms of the universe. Both films explore the psychological and physical toll of venturing into uncharted territories, emphasizing the dangers and revelations that accompany the quest for knowledge and discovery.

The sci-fi horror film, The Thing, centers on a group of researchers in Antarctica who encounter a shape-shifting alien organism that can mimic any lifeform it absorbs. As paranoia and mistrust escalate among the team, they must confront the terrifying implications of the creature's ability to imitate and infiltrate their ranks. Starring Kurt Russell and directed by John Carpenter, The Thing explores themes of isolation, fear, and the struggle for survival in the face of an insidious extraterrestrial threat.

The Thing is akin to Prometheus in its fusion of sci-fi themes with elements of horror, as characters grapple with the unknown and face existential dread in the presence of a malevolent alien entity. Both films masterfully blend suspense, paranoia, and visceral terror to create a chilling atmosphere that keeps audiences on edge, evoking a sense of primal fear and fascination with the mysteries of the universe. Through intricate character dynamics and a sense of impending doom, The Thing and Prometheus offer gripping narratives that delve into the darker aspects of human nature and the threats lurking in the cosmic unknown.

In Sunshine, a team of astronauts is tasked with reigniting the dying sun to save humanity from a global winter. As they approach their destination, the crew faces escalating challenges and internal conflicts that threaten the success of their mission and the fate of mankind.

Sunshine resonates with Prometheus through its depiction of a high-stakes mission of exploration as characters grapple with the enormity of their task and the sacrifices required for the greater good. Both films explore themes of sacrifice, human resilience, and existential dilemmas in the face of the unknown, portraying the complexities and consequences of venturing into the uncharted reaches of space.

In Europa Report, a crew of astronauts embarks on a perilous mission to Jupiter's moon, Europa, to search for signs of life. As they face unforeseen challenges and dangers, the crew's resolve is tested, and they must confront the unknown in their quest for discovery.

Similar to Prometheus, Europa Report features a team of explorers on a dangerous mission to unravel the mysteries of the universe, highlighting the risks and sacrifices involved in seeking answers beyond Earth. Both films look into themes of exploration, evolution, and the human desire for knowledge, portraying the resilience and ingenuity of individuals facing the perils of space travel.

Directed by Denis Villeneuve, this mesmerizing science fiction drama follows linguist Dr. Louise Banks as she leads an effort to communicate with extraterrestrial visitors whose mysterious arrival sparks global uncertainty. Amid the race against time to decipher the aliens' language and intentions, Louise confronts questions of language barriers, perception, and the profound implications of communication beyond Earth. With a standout performance by Amy Adams and profound themes of unity, empathy, and the nature of time, Arrival weaves a mesmerizing tale of human connection in the face of the unknown.

In resonance with Prometheus, Arrival digs into the intricate dynamics of characters striving to uncover the motives and intentions of alien beings that challenge conventional understanding and provoke existential contemplation. Both narratives delve into the complexities of interspecies communication, inviting audiences to ponder the mysteries of first contact and the transformative power of shared language and understanding. Through poignant storytelling and emotional depth, both Arrival and Prometheus offer riveting explorations of the human quest for connection in the vastness of the cosmos, resonating with themes of discovery, empathy, and the transcendence of cultural and linguistic divides.

In the science fiction drama Solaris, a psychologist is sent to a space station orbiting the mysterious planet Solaris to investigate strange occurrences among the crew. As he investigates the enigmatic forces at play, he confronts his own inner demons and questions the nature of reality and human connection. Directed by Steven Soderbergh, the film stars George Clooney and Natascha McElhone in a haunting exploration of love, grief, and the boundaries of perception.

Similar to Prometheus, Solaris contemplates the eerie mysteries of space as characters grapple with existential dilemmas and the enigmatic nature of the cosmos. Both films infuse psychological depth and philosophical undertones into their narratives, challenging the characters and audiences to ponder the enigmatic forces at play in the vast expanse of the universe. Solaris and Prometheus provoke contemplation on the unknown and the limits of human understanding in the face of the inexplicable.

Based on Carl Sagan's novel, Contact follows astronomer Dr. Ellie Arroway (played by Jodie Foster) as she discovers a signal from extraterrestrial beings that leads to a groundbreaking interstellar journey. The film explores themes of faith, science, and the search for intelligent life in the universe, blending speculative fiction with emotional depth and philosophical inquiry. Directed by Robert Zemeckis, Contact offers a thought-provoking exploration of the human quest for connection and understanding in a vast and mysterious cosmos.

Contact shares thematic similarities with Prometheus in its exploration of space, focusing on the profound impact of encountering the unknown and the implications of communication with extraterrestrial intelligence. Both films emphasize the transformative power of cosmic revelations on individual characters and humanity as a whole, highlighting the boundaries of human knowledge and the endless possibilities that lie beyond Earth's confines. Contact and Prometheus resonate as thoughtful meditations on the enigmatic wonders of the universe, weaving together scientific inquiry and philosophical reflection in compelling narratives that resonate with audiences seeking to unravel the mysteries of existence.

Stanley Kubrick's landmark science fiction film, 2001: A Space Odyssey, follows a voyage to Jupiter triggered by a mysterious monolith that signals a pivotal point in human evolution. The narrative unfolds across time and space, exploring themes of artificial intelligence, the nature of consciousness, and the evolution of humanity through a series of cryptic encounters with the unknown. Featuring breathtaking visuals and an iconic score, the film revolutionized the science fiction genre and continues to captivate audiences with its enigmatic storytelling.

In a similar vein to Prometheus, 2001: A Space Odyssey fearlessly goes into the vast unknowns of space, presenting a cosmic journey that transcends conventional storytelling and challenges traditional narratives of human exploration. Both films evoke a sense of awe and wonder at the vastness of the universe, raising profound questions about the origins of life, the role of higher beings, and the cyclical nature of existence. 2001: A Space Odyssey and Prometheus stand as visionary works that probe the depths of space and consciousness, inviting viewers to contemplate the enigmatic forces shaping the destiny of mankind.

A science fiction thriller about the crew of the International Space Station who discover the first evidence of extraterrestrial life on Mars, only to find that the organism is more intelligent and dangerous than they ever anticipated. The film follows their intense struggle for survival as the situation aboard the station grows increasingly perilous.

Fans of Prometheus (2012) would appreciate Life for its gripping tale of extraterrestrial discovery gone awry and the existential dread that comes with encountering unknown life forms. Both movies delve into the theme of scientific hubris and showcase the potential horrors that await humanity as they reach out into the cosmos, blending the science fiction and horror genres to create a sense of awe and fear.

In this sci-fi action thriller, a drifter named Nada discovers a pair of sunglasses that reveal the presence of subliminal messages and hidden alien beings controlling society. As Nada joins a rebel group to expose the extraterrestrial invaders, he engages in a fight for freedom and truth against the manipulative forces orchestrating Earth's downfall. Directed by John Carpenter, They Live features Roddy Piper in a role that delves into themes of consumerism, conformity, and the power of perception.

They Live shares similarities with Prometheus in its blending of science fiction and horror elements, offering a provocative exploration of hidden truths and the sinister forces shaping human civilization. Both films challenge the status quo and question the nature of reality, presenting a world where deception and manipulation are prevalent, leading characters to confront malevolent entities that threaten the very fabric of their existence. Through social commentary and high-stakes action, They Live and Prometheus offer compelling narratives that resonate with audiences seeking thought-provoking tales of alien encounters and humanity's struggle against unseen foes.

In Pandorum directed by Christian Alvart, two astronauts wake up on a spacecraft with no memory of their mission and find themselves facing nightmarish creatures and inexplicable phenomena. As they navigate the ship's dark corridors and unravel the mysteries surrounding their mission, they confront their deepest fears and the terrifying repercussions of their own fragmented memories. Dennis Quaid and Ben Foster lead the cast in this gripping tale of survival, paranoia, and the unraveling of reality in the unforgiving expanse of space.

Similar to Prometheus, Pandorum thrusts characters into a world of psychological terror and existential threats, where the boundaries of identity, memory, and reality blur in the face of unknown forces and hidden truths. Both films explore the fragility of the human psyche and the complexities of self-discovery amid harrowing circumstances, weaving narratives that challenge perceptions of truth, sanity, and the nature of existence. Through chilling suspense and visceral horror, Pandorum and Prometheus offer viewers immersive journeys into the depths of fear and self-discovery in the uncharted territories of the cosmos.

Directed by James Gray, this sci-fi drama stars Brad Pitt as astronaut Roy McBride on a mission to unravel the mystery surrounding his father's disappearance during a space expedition. As Roy ventures deeper into the solar system, he grapples with his own emotional detachment, existential solitude, and the haunting legacy of his father's quest for extraterrestrial life. Featuring a stellar cast including Tommy Lee Jones, Ruth Negga, and Liv Tyler, Ad Astra explores themes of isolation, introspection, and the longing for connection in the vast emptiness of space.

Echoing the thematic depth of Prometheus, Ad Astra delves into the internal struggles and existential crises of its protagonist, who embarks on a quest for self-discovery and truth in the face of cosmic unknowns. Both films infuse elements of psychological tension and existential dread into their narratives, inviting audiences to ponder the profound questions of identity, purpose, and the boundaries of human exploration. Through introspective storytelling and stunning visuals, Ad Astra and Prometheus craft immersive experiences that challenge viewers to confront the enigmas of the universe and the depths of their own humanity.

Directed by Duncan Jones, Moon follows astronaut Sam Bell, who is stationed alone on a lunar mining base near the end of his three-year mission. As Sam's mental and emotional state deteriorates, he discovers a shocking truth that challenges his identity and purpose, leading to a profound exploration of loneliness, ethics, and the nature of humanity. Sam Rockwell delivers a captivating performance in the lead role, portraying the complex journey of a man facing existential crisis amid the vast emptiness of space.

In a nod to Prometheus, Moon delves into the psychological and existential struggles of a character grappling with the mysteries of his existence and the unsettling revelations that confront his sense of reality and self. Both projects immerse viewers in a narrative filled with emotional depth, philosophical contemplation, and atmospheric tension, drawing audiences into a world where the line between inner turmoil and external threats blurs. Through evocative storytelling and nuanced character development, Moon and Prometheus craft narratives that probe the depths of human consciousness and the existential dilemmas that arise in the face of enigmatic truths.

This classic science fiction film directed by Spielberg follows Roy Neary, a man who experiences a close encounter with a UFO, leading him on a journey to unravel the mystery behind these otherworldly visitations. As Roy and others are drawn to a remote location, they confront awe, fear, and the transformative power of contact with extraterrestrial beings. Richard Dreyfuss delivers a standout performance alongside François Truffaut, capturing the sense of wonder, curiosity, and existential contemplation that underpins humanity's quest for connection with the cosmos.

Drawing parallels to Prometheus, Close Encounters of the Third Kind immerses characters in a world where they must decipher the intentions and motivations of alien entities that challenge their understanding of reality and existence. Both narratives blend elements of wonder and apprehension as characters embark on a journey into the unknown, expanding their perceptions and forging connections with beings from distant realms. Through captivating storytelling and emotional depth, both Close Encounters of the Third Kind and Prometheus invite audiences to reflect on the complexities of alien encounters and the profound questions they raise about the nature of communication and connection with otherworldly entities.

This science fiction horror classic revolves around a small town overcome by the invasion of extraterrestrial plant spores that create emotionless duplicates of human beings, spreading paranoia and fear. As Dr. Miles Bennell and his acquaintances realize the extent of the infiltration, they struggle to discern friend from foe and preserve their humanity in a world where trust is a scarce commodity. Through themes of identity loss, societal conformity, and the insidious nature of assimilation, the film immerses viewers in a chilling exploration of alien infiltration and human resilience.

Drawing similarities to Prometheus, Invasion of the Body Snatchers plunges characters into a harrowing confrontation with alien entities seeking to replace and assimilate humanity, blurring the boundaries between the familiar and the alien. Both narratives evoke a sense of existential dread as characters navigate the treacherous landscape of enigmatic beings, prompting reflections on trust, identity, and the fundamental essence of humanity. With a blend of suspenseful storytelling and eerie tension, both films offer profound insights into the complexities of encountering alien forces and the existential turmoil that ensues.

The sci-fi drama, Fire in the Sky, recounts the alleged alien abduction of a group of loggers in Arizona, focusing on the psychological aftermath and the search for the truth behind their harrowing experience. As one of the loggers disappears without a trace and returns days later with disturbing memories, the film unravels a tale of extraterrestrial encounters, skepticism, and the impact of confronting the unknown.

Fire in the Sky shares thematic similarities with Prometheus in its exploration of mysterious lifeforms that challenge human understanding and provoke intense reactions among those who encounter them. Both films navigate the complexities of interaction with beings from beyond Earth, depicting the awe, fear, and uncertainty that accompany such encounters. Through gripping narratives and emotional depth, Fire in the Sky and Prometheus contemplate the enigmatic realms of alien existence, inviting audiences to contemplate the implications of encountering otherworldly life forms in the vast expanse of the cosmos.

Set on the Red Planet, this sci-fi horror film follows a group of astronauts on a research mission who make a startling discovery that triggers a fight for survival against a deadly extraterrestrial threat. As the crew faces betrayal, desperation, and the unraveling of their own sanity, they must navigate the treacherous Martian landscape to escape the perils that lurk beneath the surface. Featuring a talented cast including Liev Schreiber, Elias Koteas, and Olivia Williams, The Last Days on Mars explores themes of isolation, paranoia, and the fragility of human existence in the face of unknown forces.

In a fashion reminiscent of Prometheus, The Last Days on Mars combines themes of science fiction with horror, immersing characters in a harrowing descent into chaos and terror as they confront malevolent alien life forms that challenge their survival and beliefs. Both tales evoke a sense of dread and suspense through skillful storytelling and visual mastery, plunging audiences into atmospheric worlds where the line between discovery and destruction blurs. Through intense character dynamics and heart-pounding suspense, The Last Days on Mars and Prometheus offer compelling narratives that grip viewers with a mix of fear, fascination, and existential contemplation.

M. Night Shyamalan's science fiction thriller, Signs, follows former Reverend Graham Hess as he discovers mysterious crop circles appearing on his farm, signaling the arrival of potential extraterrestrial visitors. As Graham and his family navigate the increasing phenomenon of alien activity, they confront themes of faith, fear, and the resilience of the human spirit in the face of unknown threats. Mel Gibson leads the cast in a gripping portrayal of a man grappling with personal loss and existential questions amid the uncertainty of alien encounters.

In a similar vein to Prometheus, Signs delves into the psychological and emotional turmoil of characters thrust into a world where they must uncover the motives of alien beings that challenge their sense of reality and safety. Both narratives evoke a sense of tension and contemplation as characters confront the mysteries of the universe, prompting reflections on belief, fear, and the fragility of human existence in the presence of enigmatic entities. Through evocative storytelling and nuanced character development, both Signs and Prometheus offer audiences immersive explorations of the human psyche and the complexities of encountering otherworldly forces, resonating with themes of discovery, vulnerability, and the quest for understanding in the vastness of the cosmos.

Astronauts aboard the International Space Station face a crisis as Earth plunges into conflict, leading to an intense struggle for control of the station between American and Russian crew members.

Fans of Prometheus will appreciate I.S.S. for its gripping depiction of isolation and the terrifying consequences of human actions in the vastness of space. The movie's intense atmosphere and moral dilemmas echo the thought-provoking themes and suspenseful storytelling that captivated audiences in Ridley Scott's cosmic exploration.