Space-themed films were once a rarity, but with the rise of realistic CGI, they have become more prevalent. I.S.S., the latest space thriller, is set aboard the International Space Station. The storyline unfolds as the U.S. and Russian crews are tasked with assuming command of the base when a conflict erupts on Earth.

If the premise of I.S.S. caught your interest or if you enjoyed watching it, we’ve curated a list of other captivating space movies that could provide you with a similar thrill. While the storylines of these movies may not all be as realistic as I.S.S., they represent three of the most overlooked space thrillers in recent years.

Ad Astra (2019)

Ad Astra stands out as one of the contemplative space films, narrating the journey of a man compelled to venture to the outer edges of the solar system to save his father, who embarked on a mission three decades ago and vanished. While the movie offers genuine thrills, it also presents a realistic portrayal of space living, complete with unique elements like an Applebee’s on the moon.

Above all, Ad Astra serves as an exquisite exploration of an individual’s character, complemented by breathtaking cinematography and one of Brad Pitt’s most remarkable performances. Notably, it stands shoulder to shoulder with his outstanding work in Quentin Tarantino’s acclaimed film Once Upon a Time in Hollywood.

Ad Astra is streaming on Hulu.

Sunshine (2007)

Danny Boyle’s electrifying, immensely captivating, and profoundly meaningful space saga, Sunshine, narrates the tale of a crew on a mission to approach the sun with a nuclear bomb, aiming to reignite the star that fuels our solar system.

Boasting a stellar ensemble cast comprising Cillian Murphy, Michelle Yeoh, Rose Byrne, and Chris Evans, Sunshine stands out as one of the more adventurous space films, fueled by a third act where a sun-obsessed, unhinged individual infiltrates the crew, leading to a suspenseful showdown. The film’s success is credited to its exceptional cast and the skilled team assembled by director Danny Boyle behind the scenes.

Sunshine can be rented or purchased on Amazon Prime Video and other digital vendors.

Moon (2009)

In Moon, the protagonist toils away in isolation within a lunar mining facility, anticipating the conclusion of his three-year stint. However, when his health takes a sudden downturn and he narrowly escapes a significant mishap, he begins to unravel the mystery behind his presence on the moon. The film delves into themes of solitude, identity, and the unsettling realization that things might not be as they seem, crafting a thought-provoking narrative set against the backdrop of the lunar landscape.

With an outstanding performance from Sam Rockwell and impressive production design, Moon is a hidden gem in the world of space thrillers, especially considering its limited budget.