Some people feel the U.S. is the greatest country in the world. Whether or not that's true, it's definitely one of the world's most powerful. That makes it a prime target for hostile forces looking to take over. In the cinematic world, this often means America is invaded by home-grown insurgents, antagonistic forces from other countries, or even by extraterrestrials.
The films on this crowd-ranked list span seven decades of production, and range from Independence Day to Red Dawn (both versions) to Invasion of the Body Snatchers (again, both versions). Which ones do you find the most memorable and engaging? Vote up your favorites!
- Photo:
- Red Dawn
In this iconic 80s film, a group of plucky high school students bands together to form a guerilla resistance group after Soviet paratroopers invade their small Colorado town. Intense action sequences and a compelling portrayal of the human spirit under duress make this movie a standout in the genre. Often cited as a cult classic, its influence on subsequent invasion stories remains evident to this day.
- Actors: Patrick Swayze, C. Thomas Howell, Lea Thompson, Charlie Sheen, Jennifer Grey
- Released: 1984
- Directed by: John Milius
- Photo:
- Photo:
- Independence Day
This blockbuster made its mark on cinema history through its sweeping vision of Earth fighting back against ominous alien invaders. Memorable performances from an ensemble cast led by Will Smith and Jeff Goldblum propel the story forward, while the groundbreaking visual effects bring a breathtaking scale and scope to the conflict. A perfect blend of heart-pounding action, humor, and poignant moments cement its status as a beloved classic.
- Actors: Will Smith, Bill Pullman, Jeff Goldblum, Mary McDonnell, Judd Hirsch
- Released: 1996
- Directed by: Roland Emmerich
- Photo:
- Photo:
Featuring Tom Cruise in one of his most thrilling roles, this adaptation of H.G. Wells' classic novel captures the terror and desperation of humanity as extraterrestrial forces embark on a relentless assault against Earth. Impressive special effects pair seamlessly with the gripping narrative to deliver an unforgettable viewing experience. The apocalyptic disaster film masterfully balances the awe-inspiring scale of the alien invasion with an intimate focus on the plight of one family's fight for survival.
- Actors: Tom Cruise, Dakota Fanning, Miranda Otto, Justin Chatwin, Tim Robbins
- Released: 2005
- Directed by: Steven Spielberg
- Photo:
In this modern reimagining of the 1984 cult classic, a group of high school students band together to form an insurgent force after their hometown is invaded by North Korean forces. Updated for a new generation, the film injects timely geopolitical concerns into a familiar story while maintaining the thrilling action sequences and emotional resonance of its predecessor. This contemporary take on the storied narrative delivers a fresh perspective on the enduring themes of resistance and perseverance in the face of invasion.
- Actors: Chris Hemsworth, Josh Peck, Josh Hutcherson, Adrianne Palicki, Isabel Lucas
- Released: 2012
- Directed by: Dan Bradley
- Photo:
This movie thrusts viewers into the epicenter of a global alien invasion as humanity mounts a desperate, last-ditch defense against an overwhelming enemy force. The gritty, intense combat scenes and authentic military tactics immerse audiences in a harrowing battle for survival. The film's visceral approach to warfare and unwavering focus on the courage of the human spirit set it apart from other entries in the genre.
- Actors: Aaron Eckhart, Michelle Rodriguez, Ramón Rodríguez, Bridget Moynahan, Ne-Yo
- Released: 2011
- Directed by: Jonathan Liebesman
- Photo:
- The Andromeda Strain
Based on Michael Crichton's novel of the same name, this science fiction thriller delves into the paranoia and claustrophobia experienced by a team of scientists working to contain a deadly extraterrestrial virus. The taut plot unfolds with mounting tension as the researchers race against time to save humanity from their invisible foe. The film presents a chillingly realistic depiction of the potential consequences of uninvited alien visitors.
- Actors: Arthur Hill, David Wayne, James Olson, Kate Reid, Paula Kelly
- Released: 1971
- Directed by: Robert Wise
- Photo:
- Photo:
- Invasion of the Body Snatchers
A chilling exploration of paranoia and mistrust in society, this film follows a small group of individuals as they unravel an insidious alien conspiracy replacing humans with emotionless duplicates. As fear and tension rise, friendships are tested, and the lines between reality and suspicion blur, leading to a shocking climax. This remake of the 1956 film remains a staple in science fiction cinema for its captivating storytelling and eerie atmosphere.
- Actors: Donald Sutherland, Brooke Adams, Leonard Nimoy, Veronica Cartwright, Jeff Goldblum
- Released: 1978
- Directed by: Philip Kaufman
- Photo:
- Photo:
- Invasion U.S.A.
This action-packed 80s flick stars martial arts legend Chuck Norris as a retired CIA operative who must stop a ruthless terrorist organization set on conquering America through a wave of devastating attacks. Showcasing fierce hand-to-hand combat and explosive set-pieces, the film amplifies the traditional invasion narrative with Norris's signature blend of grit and charisma. Its relentless pace and adrenaline-pumping action make it a fan favorite for enthusiasts of classic action cinema.
- Actors: Chuck Norris, Richard Lynch, Melissa Prophet, Alex Colon, Alexander Zale
- Released: 1985
- Directed by: Joseph Zito
- Photo:
- Photo:
- The Day the Earth Stood Still
This classic work of science fiction presents a cautionary tale of global destruction, as an enigmatic extraterrestrial named Klaatu delivers a dire warning to the people of Earth. As Klaatu's powerful, destructive robot Gort forces mankind to confront the price of their violence, the narrative challenges viewers to reflect on the importance of peace and understanding in a world divided. This thought-provoking story remains deeply relevant in modern times.
- Actors: Michael Rennie, Patricia Neal, Hugh Marlowe, Sam Jaffe, Billy Gray
- Released: 1951
- Directed by: Robert Wise
- Photo:
- Photo:
10A comedic twist on the invasion trope, this Steven Spielberg-directed romp follows the colorful characters of a small California town as they grapple with hysteria and paranoia in the wake of the Pearl Harbor attack. Diverse storylines interweave and converge, culminating in a riotous climax featuring an explosive blend of slapstick and physical comedy. This playful take on the genre showcases Spielberg's talent for blending humor and history in a lighthearted homage to classic Americana.
- Actors: John Belushi, Dan Aykroyd, Lorraine Gary, Ned Beatty, Treat Williams
- Released: 1979
- Directed by: Steven Spielberg
The 70+ Best Movies of 1941See all
- 1Citizen Kane69 Votes
- 2The Maltese Falcon62 Votes
- 3How Green Was My Valley46 Votes
- Photo:
- Invasion of the Body Snatchers
The original iteration of this tale set the standard for alien invasion films with its atmospheric, black-and-white storytelling and palpable sense of paranoia. As strange occurrences multiply throughout a small town, the sinister truth behind the mysterious "pod people" emerges in a crescendo of terror. This suspenseful and intelligent masterpiece continues to haunt and influence subsequent generations of filmmakers.
- Actors: Kevin McCarthy, Dana Wynter, Carolyn Jones, Larry Gates, King Donovan
- Released: 1956
- Directed by: Don Siegel
- Photo:
- Photo:
Combining a found-footage approach with elements of a monstrous thriller, this gripping film places viewers directly in the chaos as New York City is rocked by a terrifying and mysterious attack. The intimate, shaky-cam perspective weaves together personal dramas with catastrophic destruction, capturing the sense of confusion and fear felt by the protagonists. A standout work in both the invasion and found-footage subgenres, its raw intensity stays with audiences long after the credits roll.
- Actors: Michael Stahl-David, Mike Vogel, Odette Annable, Lizzy Caplan, Jessica Lucas
- Released: 2008
- Directed by: Matt Reeves
- Photo:
- Extinction
This sci-fi thriller follows a man plagued by vivid, nightmarish visions of a brutal alien invasion, only to discover that his premonitions are all too real when Earth is thrown into chaos. The film's unique narrative structure and innovative twists on the genre propel the story forward with a sense of urgency and momentum. Its heartrending exploration of family dynamics amidst apocalyptic disaster makes it a standout work in both its genre and the larger realm of science fiction.
- Actors: Michael Peña, Lizzy Caplan, Mike Colter, Israel Broussard, Lex Shrapnel
- Released: 2018
- Directed by: Ben Young
- Photo:
- Photo:
- Rim of the World
This action-packed adventure follows a group of diverse, misfit kids at a summer camp, who are unexpectedly tasked with saving the world when aliens suddenly invade. Injecting a fresh and youthful perspective into the invasion genre, the film captures the camaraderie, bravery, and resourcefulness that arise amidst apocalyptic chaos. The thrilling escapades of the young heroes make for an entertaining and heartwarming viewing experience.
- Actors: Jack Gore, Miya Cech, Benjamin Flores, Alessio Scalzotto, King Bach
- Released: 2019
- Directed by: McG
- Photo:
- Photo:
A contemporary take on the Invasion of the Body Snatchers concept, this film stars Nicole Kidman and Daniel Craig as two individuals fighting to uncover the truth behind an extraterrestrial parasite replacing humans with emotionless clones. The sleek, modern visuals and escalating tension build to a thrilling climax, as the protagonists face impossible odds and question their own humanity. The film serves as a gripping reinterpretation of the classic invasion narrative for a new generation.
- Actors: Nicole Kidman, Daniel Craig, Jeremy Northam, Jeffrey Wright, Veronica Cartwright
- Released: 2007
- Directed by: Oliver Hirschbiegel
