We know what you’re thinking: what’s the difference between science fiction and a ‘space movie’? Simply put, while most films that take place in outer space may be sci-fi, not all sci-fi movies involve space. But maybe the more pertinent question is, why make the distinction at all?
In our estimation, it’s because the concept of the universe beyond the relative speck we call home has fascinated filmmakers since the dawn of cinema. It’s not hard to understand why. After all, who among us hasn’t gazed up at the stars at wonder at least once or twice? For artists in particular, though, the infinite vastness of space is essentially a blank canvas on which to ponder all sorts of big ideas: whether it’s mankind’s place in the void, the human desire for exploration, or the simple fear of the ultimate unknown.
And so, that is why we believe the ‘space movie’ deserves to be considered its own genre. Here are our picks for the 30 best movies that travel to infinity… and in many cases, beyond.
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👽 The 100 best science fiction movies of all-time
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💣 The 101 best action movies ever made
🦄 The 50 best fantasy movies of all-time
