“Interstellar” was a groundbreaking sci-fi movie that took audiences to new heights. If you love space exploration and mind-bending movies with visual effects, then you’ll love these 8 movies like “Interstellar.”

“Interstellar” is a Nolan creation that includes an all-star ensemble cast including Matthew McConaughey, Michael Caine, Anne Hathaway, Jessica Chastain, Casey Affleck, and Matt Damon. This is a true sensory delight of a movie made with deep scientific theories and intense human emotions at play.

Related: 10 Best Sci-Fi Movies of All Time, Ranked by Viewers

The Oscar award-winning movie (for Best Achievement in Visual Effects) was an absolute box office smash it grossing well over $700 million worldwide.

Yes, it is hard to come across other sci-fi films that are just as captivating. Nevertheless, it would be inaccurate to say that there haven’t been any other movies seeking to achieve similar goals. We’re sure that “Interstellar” fans will approve of our suggestions.

Each of these films explores different aspects of space, from the vastness of the universe to the dangers that lurk within it. So put on your favorite space suit and get ready for an adventure!

The Martian (2015)

Ridley Scott’s “The Martian,” starring Matt Damon as astronaut Mark Watney, has been hailed as a return to form for the director, who is best known for films like “Alien” and “Blade Runner.”

In many ways, “The Martian” is reminiscent of Christopher Nolan’s “Interstellar.” Both films are set in the future and both center on a group of astronauts who are stranded on an alien planet.

However, there are also some key differences between the two films. For one, “The Martian” is more of a realistic portrayal of a future space mission, while “Interstellar” is more of an abstract sci-fi film.

Additionally, “The Martian” focuses more on the challenges of space survival for astronaut Mark Watney (Matt Damon), while “Interstellar” focuses more on the emotional journey of the characters. As a result, both films offer a unique and enjoyable experience for viewers.

Passengers (2016)

Like “Interstellar,” “Passengers” is a story about a group of people who are traveling through space in order to find a new home.

However, “Passengers” is more concerned with the emotional and psychological consequences of being isolated in a small metal can for years on end.

In both movies, the characters are forced to confront their own mortality, and they must grapple with the possibility that they may never see their loved ones again.

“Passengers” is a more cynical film, suggesting that even the most well-intentioned people can be driven to desperation by the crushing weight of solitude. As such, while both movies are excellent examples of science fiction, they offer very different perspectives on the genre.

Gravity (2013)

In the film “Gravity”, Dr. Ryan Stone (Sandra Bullock) is a brilliant medical engineer on her first space shuttle mission, with veteran astronaut Matt Kowalski (George Clooney) in command of his last flight before retiring.

However, their peaceful routine mission is shattered when debris from an exploded satellite tears through the shuttle, leaving Stone stranded and helpless.

The film features stunning visual effects and edge-of-your-seat action, making it a must-see movie for any fan of science fiction.

Oblivion (2013)

Many films explore the idea of humanity’s place in the universe, but few do it with as much beauty and emotion as “Oblivion” and “Interstellar.”

Both films evoke a sense of wonder at the vastness of space and the tiny speck that is our planet. They also ask poignant questions about what it means to be human and our responsibility to future generations.

“Oblivion,” starring Tom Cruise, is set in a post-apocalyptic world where the human race has been forced to flee to a giant space station. The story follows one man’s journey to find out what happened to Earth and why he is the last human left alive.

Both films are visually stunning, with breathtaking scenes of galaxies, planets, and stars. They also feature excellent performances by their respective casts. If you’re looking for an emotionally charged sci-fi film, you can’t go wrong with “Oblivion.”

Ad Astra (2019)

“Ad Astra” and “Interstellar” are both movies about space travel. The former sci-fi movie was directed, written, and produced by James Gray.

In “Ad Astra,” the character Roy McBride (Brad Pitt) travels to Neptune in an effort to find his missing father (Tommy Lee Jones), who is believed to be alive. An unknown intelligence has potentially put the entire solar system in danger.

Both movies feature stunning visual effects of outer space, and both explore themes of family, love, and loss. However, “Ad Astra” is more interested in the psychological effects of space travel, while “Interstellar” is more focused on science fiction.

As a result, “Ad Astra” is a more introspective movie, while “Interstellar” is more action-packed. Nevertheless, both movies are excellent examples of sci-fi at their best.

The film also includes Ruth Negga, Liv Tyler, and Donald Sutherland in notable roles, among others. At its core, a sci-fi movie that is reminiscent of Interstellar, “Ad Astra” simultaneously delves into an emotional father-son story while also considering some deep existential questions -all factors that are sure to make you think long after the credits roll. Watch it for the stunning visuals and excellent acting by Brad Pitt and Tommy Lee Jones.

Inception (2010)

Christopher Nolan is a master of creating movies that are both visually stunning and intellectually stimulating.

In “Inception”, he weaves a complex story about the power of the mind, while “Interstellar” explores the boundaries of space and time. Both films are rife with symbolism and themes that are sure to leave audiences thinking long after the credits have rolled.

However, one key difference between the two films is their treatment of love.

In “Inception”, love is presented as a weakness that can be exploited, whereas, in “Interstellar”, it is portrayed as the most powerful force in the universe. This different perspective on love gives each film a unique flavor, but at their core, they are both epic stories about human potential.

If you need more reasons to watch “Inception,” check out the star-studded ensemble cast that includes Leonardo DiCaprio, Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Elliot Page, and Michael Caine.

Tenet (2020)

Nolan’s newest release, “Tenet,” has been acclaimed by many as a return to the magic of his 2014 film, “Interstellar.” Both movies explore the idea of time travel, and both feature characters who are willing to make sacrifices for the greater good.

However, “Tenet” is less sentimental than “Interstellar” and relies more on action and suspense. The result is a thrilling ride that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats.

Like “Interstellar,” “Tenet” also features stunning visuals and a mind-bending plot. However, “Tenet” is a more complex science fiction film, with multiple timelines and characters who are constantly manipulating time. As a result, “Tenet” is a more cerebral experience than “Interstellar,” but no less enjoyable.

Edge of Tomorrow (2014)

Though “Edge of Tomorrow” and “Interstellar” are vastly different movies, they share a number of similarities. Both movies center on the theme of time travel, and both feature protagonists who must make life-or-death decisions.

In “Edge of Tomorrow,” the main character, Major William Cage, is caught in a time loop, reliving the same day over and over again. As he experiences the events of that day, he becomes better equipped to survive the alien attack.

In “Interstellar,” the main character, Cooper, is also forced to make difficult choices, but his are based on the limited information he has about the future.

In both cases, the protagonists must grapple with enormous stakes and make split-second decisions that could mean life or death for themselves and for those they love. As a result, both “Edge of Tomorrow” and “Interstellar” are suspenseful, heart-pounding films that will keep audiences on the edge of their seats.

More Suggested Space Movies Like “Interstellar”

Here are a few more mind-bending sci-fi flicks in order of release you may want to check out when time permits.

  • “2001: A Space Odyssey” (1968) – A lunar surface discovery leads to a mission to Jupiter in this cult classic.
  • “Contact” (1997) – A SETI scientist (Jodie Foster) searches for extraterrestrial life.
  • “Sunshine” (2007) – Astronauts set out on a mission to save a dying sun.
  • “Avatar” (2009) – A paraplegic Marine (Sam Worthington) is sent to the moon Pandora on a top-secret mission and quickly realizes that he has to make a choice between following orders and protecting the planet he’s grown to love.
  • “Moon” (2009) – An astronaut (Sam Bell) and his robot companion (GERTY) work together alone managing a space mining station.
  • “Stowaway” (2021) – A three-person crew on a mission to Mars grapples with what to do when an unplanned passenger threatens the lives of everyone else aboard.

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Jimmy P

Senior Editor, BuddyTV