20 Gripping Movies Like Life | Similar-List

"Life" transports its audience into the boundless realms of space aboard the International Space Station, where a group of astronauts undertake a thrilling yet perilous mission. They uncover a rapidly evolving life form from Mars, posing a dire threat to their survival and all life on Earth. This intense survival thriller, brimming with suspense and gripping narrative, captivates with its thought-provoking premise and relentless tension. This curated collection offers a symphony of sci-fi thrillers, survival dramas, and extraterrestrial encounters that replicate the pulse-pounding excitement of "Life. " Whether you’re fascinated by the enigmatic abyss of space or the unnerving prospect of alien life, these films will keep you on the edge of your seat.

Alien (1979)

"Alien" is more than just a classic; it’s a masterclass in tension and atmosphere. The commercial space tug Nostromo crew is heading back to Earth when their voyage is interrupted by a distress signal from a nearby moon. Upon investigation, they inadvertently bring aboard a deadly alien organism that wreaks havoc on their ship. Ellen Ripley, portrayed by Sigourney Weaver, showcases fierce survival instincts and resourcefulness. Her character operates on sheer will and intellect, much like the astronauts in "Life," who must use every ounce of their scientific training and ingenuity to stay alive.

"Life" and "Alien" explore the harrowing concept of unexpected and lethal extraterrestrial threats. They delve into the isolation of space, where help is eons away, and the primal fight for survival against a seemingly unstoppable force. The claustrophobic confines of the Nostromo amplify the movie's intense suspense. The narrow corridors and dim lighting accentuate the horror of the alien stalking the crew, akin to the confined setting of the International Space Station in "Life," which heightens the feeling of vulnerability and fear.

One of the most memorable scenes in "Alien" is the chestburster sequence, where the alien violently emerges from a crew member's chest. This shocking moment sets the tone for the film’s suspense and terror. Designed by H.R. Giger, the alien creature, or Xenomorph, is both nightmarish and fascinating, with a design that adds a layer of primal fear. This parallels the terrifying potential of the organism discovered in "Life." The film doesn't rely on physical horror; it builds psychological tension through the crew’s mistrust and fear. Each character's response to the threat adds depth to their personalities and ups the stakes, similar to the crew dynamics in "Life."

Prometheus (2012)

"Prometheus," directed by Ridley Scott, follows a team of scientists and explorers aboard the spaceship Prometheus as they embark on a mission to discover the ancient extraterrestrial roots of humanity. Their journey takes them to a distant moon, where they uncover horrifying secrets that can potentially destroy mankind. Dr. Elizabeth Shaw, played by Noomi Rapace, exhibits relentless determination and curiosity, much like the scientists in "Life." Her quest for answers and survival against overwhelming odds parallel the intellectual drive and resilience seen in "Life's" characters.

Both films delve into deep existential questions and the terrifying unknowns of space exploration. They address the risks of seeking knowledge and the potential consequences of uncovering alien life forms. Themes of creation, survival, and the moral implications of scientific discovery are central to both stories. "Prometheus" combines breathtaking visuals with a haunting and foreboding atmosphere. It masterfully blends the epic scale of space exploration with claustrophobic tension as the crew delves deeper into the alien structure they discover, mirroring the unsettling exploration of the Martian organism in "Life."

"Prometheus" tackles profound philosophical questions about creation and humanity's origins. The film invites viewers to ponder the relationship between creators and their creations, similar to how "Life" challenges perspectives on the consequences of discovering extraterrestrial life. The film's visual craftsmanship is impeccable, from the eerie alien landscapes to the intricate design of the Engineer's ship. These visuals create an immersive experience that captures the awe and terror of encountering the unknown, much like the meticulous depiction of space and the Martian organism in "Life."

Underwater (2020)

"Underwater" plunges the audience into the depths of the Mariana Trench, where a team of deep-sea researchers survives an underwater quake only to face a terrifying threat lurking below. Their struggle for survival against a mysterious and deadly creature echoes the intense battle against the extraterrestrial life form in "Life." Kristen Stewart portrays Norah Price, a resilient mechanical engineer whose bravery and quick thinking are reminiscent of the astronauts in "Life." Norah's leadership and determination to save her crew mirrors the survival instincts and camaraderie in "Life."

Both films explore isolation in extreme environments, human resilience, and confronting the unknown. The protagonists must navigate treacherous settings while facing fearsome, unearthly adversaries, delving into the primal fight-or-flight responses that drive human survival. "Underwater" masterfully uses the oppressive depths of the ocean to create a claustrophobic and suspenseful atmosphere. The murky, dimly-lit underwater environment amplifies the tension, much like the confined and zero-gravity setting of the International Space Station in "Life." The constant threat of an unseen enemy adds to the feeling of dread and urgency.

One of the standout moments is the harrowing escape sequence as the facility begins to implode. The crew's frantic race against time to reach safety parallels the relentless pace and life-or-death stakes in "Life." The menacing underwater creatures draw inspiration from deep-sea myths and Lovecraftian horror, adding a layer of existential terror. Their design and how they stalk the crew evoke the same fear and suspense as the alien organism in "Life."As the crew’s numbers dwindle, their mental and emotional struggles intensify, much like the astronauts' deteriorating morale in "Life."

Sputnik (2020)

"Sputnik" is set against the backdrop of the Cold War-era USSR, and it combines scientific intrigue and psychological horror like "Life," where an alien organism poses a dire threat to both its host and humanity. Doctor Tatyana Klimova, portrayed by Oksana Akinshina, is a determined neurophysiologist who was brought in to examine Konstantin. Her scientific rigor and unyielding pursuit of truth mirror the intellectual bravery in "Life." Much like the astronauts in "Life," she faces ethical dilemmas and the frightening unknown in her quest to save lives.

Both films explore alien parasitism, survival, and the moral complexities of scientific discovery. They pose questions about the limits of human understanding and the potentially catastrophic consequences of encountering extraterrestrial life. The blend of personal and global stakes creates a layered narrative that captivates audiences. "Sputnik" uses the isolated, high-security military facility to create an atmosphere of paranoia and dread. The stark, clinical setting contrasts with the visceral horror of the alien entity, enhancing the tension. This controlled, isolated environment is evocative of the claustrophobic, inescapable confines of the International Space Station in "Life."

A striking scene in "Sputnik" is when the alien creature emerges from Konstantin's body for the first time, revealing its horrifying and symbiotic nature. This shocking moment captures the same visceral terror as the notable chest-burster scene in "Alien" and echoes the life form's menacing presence in "Life." The alien in "Sputnik" is meticulously designed to evoke both fascination and fear. Its behavior and relationship with the host add complexity and horror, similar to the organism in "Life" that constantly evolves and threatens. The film delves into the psychological effects on its characters, particularly Konstantin's struggle with his deadly symbiote and Tatyana’s moral conflict. The intensity of these internal and external battles parallels the psychological strain experienced by the crew in "Life."

Event Horizon (1997)

"Event Horizon" chronicles the fate of the crew aboard the spaceship Lewis and Clark, dispatched to rescue the long-lost spacecraft Event Horizon. Upon arrival, they uncover that the ship's experimental drive has pierced another dimension, bringing something dark and malevolent back. This gripping voyage into cosmic horror parallels the eerie discoveries made by the astronauts in "Life" Dr. Weir, portrayed by Sam Neill, and Captain Miller, played by Laurence Fishburne, face crucial decisions and unimaginable horrors that mirror the ethical and survival challenges encountered by the crew in "Life." Their leadership, scientific prowess, and the ensuing psychological unraveling resonate with the intense dynamics in "Life."

Both films delve into themes of isolation, the unknown dangers of space exploration, and the thin line between scientific progress and existential threat. The characters confront their darkest fears and the profound consequences of human curiosity, reflecting the high stakes in "Life." "Event Horizon" employs a gothic, almost haunted house-in-space setting that creates an overwhelming sense of dread and claustrophobia. The eerie, dark corridors of the Event Horizon, combined with the unsettling atmosphere, mirror the tension-filled, confined quarters of the International Space Station in “Life.”


One of the most unforgettable moments is when the crew reverses the Event Horizon’s distress signal, revealing horrific visions of its previous occupants’ fate. This scene sets the tone for the psychological and physical horrors that follow, akin to the terrifying discoveries made by the crew in "Life." The film excels in blending psychological horror with traditional sci-fi elements. The manifestations of the crew's deepest fears and regrets heighten the tension and suspense, much like the psychological strain and trauma faced by the astronauts in "Life." The visual representation of the Event Horizon's otherworldly drive core and the haunting manifestations are ahead of their time, adding to the film's eerie and unsettling feel. This level of atmospheric detail parallels the meticulous creation of the organism and space setting in "Life."

Alien: Covenant (2017)

In "Alien: Covenant," the crew of the colony ship Covenant is en route to a remote planet when they discover a seemingly idyllic world. However, their exploration leads them into a terrifying confrontation with advanced, deadly alien organisms. This journey into horror and survival parallels the suspenseful battle against the unknown in "Life." Katherine Waterston's character, Daniels, is a resilient and resourceful leader like the main protagonists in "Life." Her determination to protect her crew amid a dire extraterrestrial threat mirrors the astronauts' struggle for survival aboard the International Space Station.

Both films delve into themes of existential dread, the dangers of unchartered scientific exploration, and the fight for survival against unmatched extraterrestrial threats. They explore the profound terror that comes from confronting the unknown and the inevitable consequences of pushing the boundaries of human knowledge. "Alien: Covenant" masterfully employs a blend of expansive, awe-inspiring planetary landscapes juxtaposed with dark, foreboding interiors. This stark contrast enhances the film's suspense and draws parallels to the confined yet infinite space setting in "Life." The tension and dread are palpable as both crews face relentless, unseen threats.

"Alien: Covenant" provides a deeper exploration into the origin and evolution of the Xenomorphs, offering fans a richer understanding of the iconic creatures. This detailed exploration of alien biology and its lethal implications are akin to the scientific examination of the evolving Martian organism in "Life." "Alien: Covenant" weaves in deeper themes of creation, artificial intelligence, and what it means to be human through the character of David, the synthetic android. His complex relationship with the alien creatures adds a layer of philosophical intrigue, much like the crew's ethical and existential dilemmas in "Life." The film escalates psychological tension through the crew's mounting fear and mistrust, similar to the crew dynamics and escalating paranoia experienced in "Life."

The Thing (1982)

"The Thing," directed by John Carpenter, is set in the icy desolation of Antarctica, where a group of American researchers encounters a shape-shifting alien that assimilates and imitates other life forms. This film shares thematic similarities with "Life (2017)," where a life-threatening alien organism infiltrates a confined and isolated environment, creating a palpable dread. Kurt Russell's character, R.J. MacReady, exemplifies the rugged determination and survival instincts required in the face of an extraterrestrial threat. His unrelenting fight against the unknown mirrors the astronauts' efforts to contain and survive the Martian organism in "Life." Both characters embody leadership under extreme pressure.

Both films explore the anxiety of facing a life form that can adapt and become indistinguishable from those it mimics. Themes of paranoia, trust, and the breakdown of human relationships under strain are central to both narratives. The terror of an unseen enemy that can strike any moment is a key element that drives the suspense and horror. "The Thing" uses the bleak, isolated Antarctic setting to amplify the suffocating tension and claustrophobia. This setting's stark, snowy expanses contrast sharply with the confined, high-tech environment of the International Space Station in "Life," yet both effectively evoke a sense of inescapable peril. Both settings' remote and inaccessible nature heightens the stakes and the characters' vulnerability.

The shape-shifting alien in "The Thing" is brought to life through groundbreaking practical effects, creating grotesque and terrifying forms. This ingenuity in creature design echoes the spine-chilling depiction of the evolving Martian organism in "Life," where each transformation increases the sense of horror. The film excels in portraying psychological horror, with the crew's growing paranoia and mistrust adding a layer of complexity to their fight for survival. This psychological depth is akin to the astronauts' deteriorating mental states in "Life" as they grapple with the relentless alien threat and their fears.

Doom (2005)

"Doom" thrusts its audience into a high-stakes mission on Mars, where a group of Marines respond to a distress call from a research facility. Once there, they uncover a horrifying truth: researchers have unleashed monstrous creatures due to a failed genetic experiment. This premise closely mirrors the dramatic, isolated, and high-tension environment in "Life (2017)," where the crew faces a relentless extraterrestrial threat. Dwayne Johnson's character, Sarge, leads his team with tactical acumen and brute force, facing down monstrous creatures with tenacity. Similarly, the scientists and astronauts in "Life" employ their knowledge and wits to combat an equally terrifying alien organism. Both films feature protagonists who must rely on their training and instincts to navigate life-or-death situations.

Both "Doom" and "Life" revolve around the dangers of scientific experimentation and the unforeseen consequences of tampering with unknown forces. Themes of survival, containment, and the ethical dilemmas of advancing technology are central to both narratives. The fear of facing an overwhelming and incomprehensible threat underscores the storyline in each film. "Doom" creates a dark, foreboding atmosphere within the claustrophobic confines of the Martian facility. The narrow, dimly-lit corridors and oppressive setting enhance the film's tension, drawing parallels to the enclosed, zero-gravity environment aboard the International Space Station in "Life." Both settings serve to heighten the feeling of isolation and vulnerability.


One of the standout moments in "Doom" is the first-person shooter sequence, which immerses the audience in the action and horror as if they are part of the game. This innovative approach to visual storytelling adds a unique dynamic to the film, just as the real-time unfolding of events in "Life" keeps viewers on the edge of their seats. The genetically-engineered monsters in "Doom" are designed to evoke fear and revulsion with their grotesque and formidable appearance. These creatures' menacing presence is akin to the ominous evolution of the Martian organism in "Life," each iteration more dangerous and terrifying. "Doom" combines intense action sequences with suspenseful horror, keeping audiences engaged through adrenaline-pumping encounters. This blend of action and horror resonates with the thrilling and suspenseful narrative of "Life," where each moment is laced with tension and dread.

Pandorum (2009)

"Pandorum" is a gripping science fiction horror film set aboard the spaceship Elysium, where two crew members awaken from hypersleep to find themselves on an abandoned vessel. As they explore, they uncover horrifying creatures lurking within the ship and face the grim reality of their mission gone awry. This unsettling narrative resembles "Life (2017)," where isolation, suspense, and an extraterrestrial menace create a heightened atmosphere of dread. Dennis Quaid's character, Lieutenant Payton, and Ben Foster's character, Corporal Bower, embody the survival instincts and resourcefulness seen in the astronauts from "Life." Their journey through the dark corridors of the Elysium, combating both the unknown aliens and their psychological demons, mirrors the intense struggle faced by the crew aboard the International Space Station in "Life."

Both films delve into themes like survival in isolation, the consequences of humanity's technological advancements, and the darkness that arises from the unknown. They highlight the primal fight against a terrifying alien presence and the overarching sense of doom from being trapped in a confined, alien-infested environment. "Pandorum" masterfully uses its setting to create a claustrophobic and eerie atmosphere. The labyrinthine ship, with its flickering lights and narrow passages, enhances the sense of entrapment and desperation. This environment is analogous to the confined, high-stakes setting of the International Space Station in "Life," where every corner could harbor a deadly threat.

One of the film's most memorable moments is the awakening sequence, where Payton and Bower slowly come to terms with the dire state of their mission and the appearance of monstrous creatures. This unsettling revelation mirrors the intense discovery of the Martian organism's capabilities in "Life." The aggressive, mutated creatures in "Pandorum" are designed to evoke terror and reflect the horrors of unchecked scientific experimentation. Their grotesque appearance and relentless pursuit echo the deadly nature of the evolving Martian organism in "Life," each encounter heightening the sense of horror. "Pandorum" excels in blending psychological horror with sci-fi elements. The characters' struggle with their fading memories and the creeping madness induced by their isolation parallels the psychological strain and escalating fear experienced by the astronauts in "Life."

The Cloverfield Paradox (2018)

"The Cloverfield Paradox" is set aboard the Cloverfield Station, where international astronauts conduct experiments to solve Earth's energy crisis. However, a catastrophic malfunction during a particle accelerator test propels them into a parallel dimension, unleashing bizarre and terrifying phenomena. This scenario closely mirrors the intense and high-stakes survival story of "Life," where the crew faces an alien organism after a scientific experiment goes awry. Ava Hamilton embodies resilience and determination in a way similar to that of astronauts in "Life." Her urgent drive to return to her family and rectify the disastrous consequences of their experiment echoes the crew's desperate fight for survival aboard the International Space Station in "Life."

Both films delve into scientific exploration gone wrong, the unpredictability of tampering with the unknown, and the existential threats of discoveries. They emphasize the human struggle against forces beyond their understanding and control, highlighting the perils of technological advancement. "The Cloverfield Paradox" uses its confined space station setting to create a suffocating and tense atmosphere. The isolation and eerie and inexplicable occurrences amplify the film's suspense. This environment resembles the claustrophobic and high-tension confines of the ISS in "Life," where the crew's vulnerability is underscored by their isolation from Earth.

The film introduces unique and unsettling phenomena, such as space-time disruptions, adding unpredictability and horror layers. These anomalies create a sense of perpetual danger, much like the evolving threat posed by the alien life form in "Life." "The Cloverfield Paradox" builds psychological tension as the crew grapples with paranoia, fear, and the unknown. The mental strain experienced by the characters mirrors the psychological challenges faced by the astronauts in "Life," adding depth to their fight for survival. The film interweaves multiple realities and timelines, adding a complex narrative layer that challenges the characters' perceptions and decisions. This complexity resonates with "Life," where the crew must continually adapt their strategies in response to the alien organism's unpredictable behavior.

A Quiet Place Part II (2020)

"A Quiet Place Part II" continues the harrowing story of the Abbott family as they navigate a post-apocalyptic world overrun by deadly, sound-sensitive creatures. After the devastating events of the first film, they must venture into the unknown, encountering new threats and survivors. This nerve-wracking journey mirrors the intense survival experience of "Life (2017)," where the characters face relentless extraterrestrial danger. Emily Blunt's character, Evelyn Abbott, exemplifies resilience and maternal strength, much like the characters in "Life." Her unwavering determination to protect her children and find safety reflects the astronauts' determination to survive and protect humanity from the alien threat they brought back from Mars.

Both films explore themes of survival under extreme conditions, the instinct to protect loved ones, and the perils of facing unknown adversaries. The characters in both movies are forced to adapt quickly and think strategically to outlive their formidable enemies, emphasizing human ingenuity and resilience. "A Quiet Place Part II" creates a suspenseful and oppressive atmosphere through its innovative use of sound and silence. The constant threat of noise attracting deadly creatures heightens the tension, similar to the high-stakes, confined environment of the International Space Station in "Life," where every action could trigger a lethal reaction from the alien organism. "A Quiet Place Part II" broadens the scope of its world, introducing new locations and expanding the narrative beyond the initial setting. This evolution in storytelling resonates with "Life," where the unfolding events continually heighten the stakes and complexity of the characters' struggle.

One of the standout moments in "A Quiet Place Part II" is the intense opening sequence, which vividly depicts the chaos and terror of the creatures' initial arrival. This immediate thrust into survival mode is reminiscent of the astronauts' sudden struggle against the Martian life form in "Life." The film showcases creative survival tactics, such as using sound to distract the creatures and employing the environment to their advantage. These carefully thought-out strategies parallel the innovative measures the astronauts in "Life" take to combat the alien organism, highlighting the need for quick thinking and adaptability. As the Abbott family encounters new survivors and threats, the complexity of their journey deepens. This mirrors the crew's dynamic interactions and evolving dangers in "Life," where trust and cooperation become crucial elements in their fight for survival.

The Thing (2011)

"The Thing (2011)" serves as a prequel to John Carpenter’s 1982 classic, detailing the discovery of a mysterious alien craft buried in Antarctica by a Norwegian research team. As they attempt to study the frozen organism, it awakens and assimilates the scientists, creating a deadly game of cat and mouse. This terrifying premise mirrors the crew's intense extraterrestrial threat in "Life (2017)," where containment and survival become critical. Mary Elizabeth Winstead’s character, Dr. Kate Lloyd, is a determined paleontologist whose scientific curiosity and quick thinking are tested. Her resourcefulness and leadership in the chaos parallels the astronauts in "Life," who must use their training and wits to combat a relentless alien entity.

Both films explore isolation, paranoia, and the primal fear of an unknown, shape-shifting threat. The characters must navigate the claustrophobic settings and identify who—if anyone—is still human, emphasizing themes of trust and survival under extreme pressure. "The Thing (2011)" uses Antarctica's desolate, icy expanse to create an atmosphere of isolation and inescapable tension. The stark contrasts of the frozen landscape against the warm, blood-stained interiors of the research station enhance the dread, much like the confined and compromised ISS setting in "Life."

The alien in "The Thing" is brought to life through practical effects and CGI, transforming seemingly harmless forms into grotesque abominations. This horrifying transformation echoes the evolving Martian life form in "Life," where each iteration poses greater danger and fear. The film excels in portraying the breakdown of trust among the team as the alien's ability to mimic perfectly causes paranoia to spiral out of control. This psychological tension is similar to the escalating fear and mistrust among the astronauts in "Life" as they try to contain the Martian threat. "The Thing" delves deep into psychological horror, exploring how fear of the unknown and the potential for betrayal by trusted colleagues can be just as terrifying as the physical threat. This adds complexity and depth, making the struggle against the alien entity even more compelling, much like the psychological elements in "Life." The prequel intricately weaves in events that lead directly to the narrative of the 1982 classic, providing a comprehensive backstory that enhances the original's impact. This narrative continuity enriches the lore and immerses the viewing experience, paralleling the detailed world-building in "Life."

 Aliens (1986)

"Aliens," directed by James Cameron, continues the harrowing saga of Ellen Ripley as she returns to the planet LV-426 with a squad of marines to investigate the loss of communication with a colony. They encounter an overwhelming force of Xenomorphs, far more threatening and numerous than before. This intense, action-packed narrative resembles "Life (2017)," where characters face a relentless extraterrestrial menace in an isolated setting, requiring a blend of tactical acumen and sheer survival instinct. Sigourney Weaver's iconic portrayal of Ripley demonstrates courage, leadership, and tactical prowess, mirroring the resourcefulness and determination of the astronauts in "Life" as they combat the alien life form. Ripley's maternal instincts to protect Newt resonate with the crew's protective measures to prevent the Martian organism from reaching Earth.

Both films explore themes of human resilience, the ethical dilemmas of encountering extraterrestrial life, and the existential threats posed by powerful, unknown entities. They delve into the primal instincts of survival and protection, whether of family or humanity, in the face of overwhelming odds. "Aliens" creates a tense, high-stakes atmosphere with its dark, industrial setting and the claustrophobic interiors of the colony and space vessel. The constant looming threat and rapid alien encounters keep the tension high, akin to the ISS confined, zero-gravity environment in "Life," where danger lurks at every turn.

The Xenomorphs are depicted with terrifying detail and ferocity, evoking a primal fear of an implacable, intelligent predator. This relentless threat parallels the lethal adaptability of the Martian creature in "Life," raising the stakes of each encounter. The film excels in portraying military strategy and futuristic weaponry, highlighting the tactical prowess needed to combat the Xenomorph threat. These elements of strategy and teamwork are echoed in "Life," where the astronauts must collaborate and innovate to survive. "Aliens" delves into the psychological trauma faced by its characters, especially Ripley, who struggles with her past experiences and the new threat. This emotional depth adds complexity to the character arcs, similar to the psychological strain experienced by the crew in "Life" as they grapple with fear and the unknown. The growth and evolution of characters such as Ripley and Corporal Hicks add layers of emotional resonance and human connection, making the stakes personal. This development is analogous to the character dynamics in "Life," where personal motivations and relationships enhance the narrative tension.

 Predator (1987)

"Predator," directed by John McTiernan, revolves around an elite paramilitary rescue team led by Arnold Schwarzenegger's character, Major Dutch, as an advanced and ruthless extraterrestrial warrior in the jungles of Central America hunts them. This relentless survival story shares thematic elements with "Life (2017)," where characters face an unpredictable and deadly alien threat in an isolated setting, forcing them to use all their skills and wits to survive. Major Dutch leads his team with tactical expertise and unyielding determination, much like the astronauts in "Life." His leadership and survival instincts in the face of a seemingly invincible predator mirror the crew's strategic efforts to outwit and contain the Martian organism aboard the ISS. Both protagonists are driven by the necessity to protect their teams and prevent a greater catastrophe.

Both films delve into themes of survival, the terror of being hunted by an unknown and superior adversary, and the necessity of teamwork and ingenuity in overcoming seemingly insurmountable odds. They explore the primal fear of the unknown and the drive to survive against an extraterrestrial entity that is both intelligent and lethal. "Predator" skillfully utilizes the dense, claustrophobic jungle setting to create a sense of entrapment and dread. The constant tension is heightened by the predator's ability to blend into the environment and strike without warning, similar to the high-stakes tension aboard the ISS in "Life," where the alien organism can exploit the station's confined spaces.

The Predator's use of advanced technology, such as cloaking devices and thermal vision, adds an element of futuristic horror and showcases the alien's superior hunting capabilities. This technological prowess parallels the evolving capabilities of the Martian organism in "Life," where each new development increases the threat level. "Predator" excels in building psychological tension as the team members are picked off one by one, leading to paranoia and fear. This psychological depth is similar to the astronauts' growing fear and desperation in "Life" as they try to contain and understand the alien threat. The film explores the dynamic of human ingenuity against an advanced alien hunter, emphasizing themes of resourcefulness and resilience. This dynamic is mirrored in "Life," where the human characters must continually outsmart an alien life form that adapts and evolves to their strategies. The growth and camaraderie displayed by Dutch and his team add emotional weight to their struggle, making their sacrifices and survival efforts more impactful. This development resonates with the character arcs in "Life," where personal bonds and sacrifices heighten the narrative tension and emotional stakes.

Alien Resurrection (1997)

"Alien Resurrection" marks the fourth installment in the "Alien" franchise, directed by Jean-Pierre Jeunet. The film follows Ellen Ripley, who has been cloned and resurrected over 200 years after her death, along with the deadly Xenomorphs. Set aboard the spaceship USM Auriga, the crew must contain the unleashed alien threat. This thrilling premise closely aligns with "Life (2017)," where astronauts grapple with an evolved alien life form in an enclosed, high-stakes space environment. Sigourney Weaver reprises her role as Ellen Ripley, now a complex hybrid of human and Xenomorph. Her enhanced abilities and unrelenting determination to combat the alien threat parallel the astronauts in "Life," who must use all their scientific training and instincts to survive against the Martian organism. The character’s resilience and ingenuity are central to both narratives.

Both films explore themes of human experimentation, the ethics of scientific advancement, and the consequences of playing God. They delve into the primal fear of facing an overpowering extraterrestrial adversary and the desperation to prevent these threats from reaching Earth. "Alien Resurrection" uses the confined, industrial interiors of the USM Auriga to create a sense of claustrophobic tension. The spaceship's dark, labyrinthine structure enhances the feeling of entrapment and imminent danger, mirroring the confined quarters of the ISS in "Life," where every corner may conceal the alien organism. "Alien Resurrection" explores the psychological impact of Ripley's rebirth and her connection to the Xenomorphs. This internal struggle adds depth to the external battle against the aliens, paralleling the psychological tension experienced by the crew in "Life" as they face the implications of their extraterrestrial discovery. The film also raises questions about cloning, genetic manipulation, and the moral responsibilities of scientists, and themes echoed in "Life," where the pursuit of knowledge and the potential consequences of such discoveries come under scrutiny.

One of the standout sequences in "Alien Resurrection" is the underwater scene, where Ripley and the crew navigate a submerged section of the ship while being pursued by swimming Xenomorphs. This intense and visually stunning scene captures the relentless suspense similar to the astronauts' encounters with the alien life form in "Life." The film introduces hybrid elements, such as the Newborn, a grotesque human-Xenomorph crossbreed, adding a fresh layer of horror. This concept of hybridization and the unpredictability of genetic experimentation resonate with the evolving and adaptive Martian organism in "Life," heightening the fear factor. The interactions between Ripley and the motley crew of mercenaries, each with unique skills and personalities, add complexity and tension. These dynamics are akin to the astronauts in "Life," whose differing backgrounds and expertise must coalesce to combat the alien threat.

In conclusion, if "Life" captivated you with its intense storytelling, complex characters, and gripping suspense, the movies we've curated in this list will surely provide the same thrilling experience. Each film delves into themes of survival, human resilience, and the unpredictable nature of life, keeping you on the edge of your seat from start to finish. From sci-fi thrillers to psychological dramas, these movies offer a variety of engaging plots and thought-provoking narratives. So, immerse yourself in these gripping tales and prepare for a cinematic journey filled with suspense, intrigue, and unforgettable moments.

Other Recommendation:

Sunshine (2007)

Interstellar (2014)

Annihilation (2018)

The Martian (2015)

Event Horizon (1997)