8 Best Movies Like Star Wars
May 5, 2022 | Benjamin Carpenter
Star Wars is the most recognized space opera franchise of all time. The movies have sci-fi technology, iconic characters, an expansive world, and a classic story. The franchise inspired a huge following of fans over the years, and to this day new generations are getting captured by its originality. Star Wars may be well-known but it is not the only movie series with these qualities. There are many other great space operas and sci-fi movies that have a lot in common with Star Wars. If you’re a Star Wars fanatic that needs more film recommendations, then look no further than this following list of movies like Star Wars.
8 Movies Like The Star Wars Franchise
8. Spaceballs
This film doesn’t tell a serious story but instead parodies the Star Wars franchise. The characters and the story heavily mimic the one told in A New Hope. The film is about a star-pilot for hire and his trusty sidekick who must come to the rescue of a princess and save Planet Druidia from the clutches of the evil Spaceballs. The parody doesn’t have the smartest humor but Star Wars fans might be able to appreciate the humor that pokes fun at their favorite franchise.
Where To Watch Spaceballs
7. The Last Starfighter
The Last Starfighter is a classic 80s sci-fi. It’s straightforward and simple but still a great movie. The film is about a local high school student who finds himself transported to another planet after conquering the Starfighter video game only to find out it was just a test to be recruited to a team of starfighters from another world. The Last Starfighter is a great family film that has many similarities to Luke Skywalker’s pilot arc in A New Hope.
Where To Watch The Last Starfighter For $3.99
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6. Guardians of the Galaxy
James Gunn created a quirky and impressive world with Guardians of the Galaxy. It was the first Marvel film that took place off of Earth and introduced us to the space opera within the universe. The film is about a group of intergalactic criminals who must pull together to stop a fanatical warrior with plans to purge the universe. Guardians of the Galaxy tells a unique origin story that is one of the most entertaining space operas on this list.
Where To Watch Guardians of the Galaxy
5. Avatar
James Cameron revolutionized the film industry by releasing Avatar in 2009. The visual effects are a technical marvel and an achievement in 3D technology. The film started the 3D fad that took up most of the last decade. Avatar is about a paraplegic Marine who is sent to the moon Pandora on a unique mission and becomes torn between following his orders and protecting the world he feels is his home. While some may believe that Avatar is overrated, the film is a spectacle that should be appreciated for its advances in filmmaking.
Where To Watch Avatar
4. The Fifth Element
The Fifth Element has a lot of flaws, but the entertainment value in the performances, narrative, and world overwhelms any flaws that may be picked out. The film is about a cab driver in the colorful future who unwittingly becomes the central figure in the search for a legendary cosmic weapon to keep Evil and Mr. Zorg at bay. The Fifth Element is an extravagant space opera that never takes itself too seriously.
Where To Watch The Fifth Element
3. Flash Gordon
Flash Gordon is a fun bad movie that feels inspired by the Star Wars movie franchise. The film is a classic science fiction film that is full of campiness and is enjoyably retro. The movie is about a football player and his friends who travel to the planet Mongo and find themselves fighting the tyranny of Ming the Merciless to save Earth. Flash Gordon is a standout guilty pleasure and has plenty of memorable moments and lines that are worth watching.
Where To Watch Flash Gordon
2. Star Trek
JJ Abrams is a huge Star Wars fan, and he was also given the chance to reboot the Star Trek franchise in the 21st century. Many viewers would claim that the new films are a great blend of both Star Trek and Star Wars. The Star Trek franchise follows James T. Kirk as he leads the Enterprise crew against threats against The Federation and with Mr. Spock keeping him in check. The Star Trek movies has dynamic storytelling, actors with impressive chemistry, and a contagious energy that keeps you wanting to see more.
Where To Watch Star Trek
Where To Watch Star Trek Into Darkness
Where To Watch Star Trek Beyond
1. Dune
A huge part of the allure to the Star Wars universe is the immersive world that George Lucas created. It’s expansive and full of lore that is worth exploring. Dune, originally written by Frank Herbert, is a sci-fi fantasy epic that paints an intricate and impressive world as well. The story is about a brilliant and gifted young man who is thrown into a conflict between malevolent forces and entrusted to protect the most valuable element in the galaxy. Dune is an epic adventure that deserves recognition as one of the greatest science fiction stories ever written.
Where To Watch Dune
Space TV Shows May Be More Enjoyable For Star Wars Fans
Star Wars has a lot of world-building, and that is one of the reasons why it is such a beloved franchise. If you want to watch something that has a lot of depth, then it may make more sense to check out sci-fi TV shows. Shows allow stories to be told in a longer format and can have more time dedicated to developing the characters, their relationships, and the world. If you’re interested in watching some space TV shows, check out our list here.
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