20 Best Sci-Fi Space Operas to Watch If You Like ‘Star Wars’
I love diving into the vast, thrilling worlds of sci-fi space operas, where epic battles, strange planets, and heroic journeys pull you in. If you’re hooked on the galactic adventures of ‘Star Wars,’ you’ll find plenty of other films that capture that same sense of wonder and excitement.
From gritty space westerns to sprawling intergalactic sagas, these movies offer action, heart, and imagination. Here are 20 sci-fi space operas that I think you’ll enjoy if you’re a fan of lightsabers and starships.
Serenity (2005)
Joss Whedon’s ‘Serenity’ follows the ragtag crew of the spaceship Serenity, led by Captain Mal Reynolds, as they dodge a ruthless government agent. It’s a heartfelt extension of the ‘Firefly’ series, blending humor, action, and loyalty.
The film shines with its tight-knit crew dynamics and a thrilling chase across space. Chiwetel Ejiofor’s chilling performance as the Operative makes this a gripping adventure for any ‘Star Wars’ fan.
The Last Starfighter (1984)
A teenager named Alex Rogan gets whisked from his trailer park life to fight in an interstellar war after mastering a video game. ‘The Last Starfighter’ is a fun, underdog story with a classic hero’s journey.
Its charming effects and earnest tone capture the spirit of early sci-fi adventures. Robert Preston’s sly performance as recruiter Centauri adds a playful edge that keeps you hooked.
Flash Gordon (1980)
‘Flash Gordon’ throws a football star into a vibrant, campy battle against the evil Ming the Merciless on the planet Mongo. It’s a colorful, over-the-top ride with a killer Queen soundtrack.
The film’s bold visuals and tongue-in-cheek humor make it a wild, nostalgic gem. Max von Sydow’s menacing Ming and Timothy Dalton’s dashing prince deliver pure space opera flair.
The Fifth Element (1997)
Bruce Willis stars as Korben Dallas, a cab driver caught in a cosmic quest to save Earth with a mysterious woman named Leeloo. Luc Besson’s ‘The Fifth Element’ bursts with style and quirky energy.
From alien opera singers to futuristic cities, the film’s visuals are a feast. Gary Oldman’s delightfully unhinged villain and Chris Tucker’s wild performance make it endlessly fun.
Dune (2021)
Denis Villeneuve’s ‘Dune’ follows young Paul Atreides navigating a galactic struggle over the desert planet Arrakis and its precious spice. It’s a grand, immersive epic with deep world-building.
The film balances intense action with political intrigue, much like ‘Star Wars.’ Timothée Chalamet and an all-star cast bring Frank Herbert’s complex universe to vivid life.
Guardians of the Galaxy (2014)
A misfit crew led by Peter Quill, aka Star-Lord, bands together to stop a fanatical warlord in ‘Guardians of the Galaxy.’ James Gunn’s film blends humor, heart, and cosmic stakes.
Its vibrant alien worlds and snappy dialogue echo the charm of ‘Star Wars.’ The mix of action, music, and unlikely heroes makes this a standout space adventure.
Battle Beyond the Stars (1980)
A young farmer recruits a colorful team of mercenaries to defend his peaceful planet from a warlord in ‘Battle Beyond the Stars.’ This Roger Corman gem reimagines ‘Seven Samurai’ in space.
With quirky ships and a strong cast, including Robert Vaughn, it’s a fun, low-budget romp. The film’s lighthearted take on classic sci-fi tropes feels delightfully familiar.
The Black Hole (1979)
Disney’s ‘The Black Hole’ follows a spaceship crew investigating a lost vessel near a mysterious black hole. It’s a darker, more philosophical take on space exploration.
The film’s eerie tone and striking visuals set it apart from typical adventures. Its blend of mystery and danger makes it a unique pick for ‘Star Wars’ fans.
Forbidden Planet (1956)
In ‘Forbidden Planet,’ a crew investigates a lost ship on the planet Altair IV, uncovering advanced technology and danger. This classic set the stage for modern space operas.
Robby the Robot and Leslie Nielsen’s earnest commander steal the show. Its groundbreaking effects and Shakespearean roots add depth to a thrilling sci-fi tale.
Treasure Planet (2002)
Disney’s ‘Treasure Planet’ reimagines ‘Treasure Island’ as a spacefaring adventure with solar-sailed ships and alien pirates. Young Jim Hawkins embarks on a quest for legendary treasure.
The film’s stunning animation and heartfelt coming-of-age story shine. Its unique blend of sci-fi and swashbuckling adventure captures the spirit of galactic exploration.
Space Sweepers (2021)
A scrappy crew of space scavengers stumbles into a dangerous conspiracy in the South Korean film ‘Space Sweepers.’ It’s a fast-paced, action-packed ride with a diverse cast.
The film’s vibrant visuals and lovable misfits echo the charm of ‘Star Wars’ rogues. Its fresh perspective and high-energy battles make it a modern standout.
The Chronicles of Riddick (2004)
Vin Diesel’s antihero Riddick battles a genocidal empire in ‘The Chronicles of Riddick.’ This ambitious sequel expands the gritty universe of ‘Pitch Black’ into a mythic saga.
Its bold visuals and epic scope deliver a thrilling space opera. Riddick’s lone-wolf vibe and the film’s dark tone offer a grittier take on galactic adventure.
The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy (2005)
Arthur Dent, an ordinary human, explores the universe after Earth’s destruction in ‘The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy.’ This quirky adaptation of Douglas Adams’ novel is pure fun.
With absurd humor and bizarre aliens, it’s a lighter, weirder space romp. The eclectic cast, including Martin Freeman and Zooey Deschanel, adds charm to the chaos.
Galaxy Quest (1999)
In ‘Galaxy Quest,’ washed-up actors from a sci-fi show are mistaken for real heroes by aliens needing help. This hilarious parody nails the tropes of space operas.
Tim Allen, Sigourney Weaver, and Alan Rickman shine in this clever comedy. It’s a love letter to sci-fi fans that still delivers thrilling space adventure.
Spaceballs (1987)
Mel Brooks’ ‘Spaceballs’ spoofs ‘Star Wars’ with Lone Starr and Barf saving a princess from the evil Dark Helmet. It’s a laugh-out-loud take on space opera clichés.
The film’s goofy humor and clever jabs make it a joy to watch. Rick Moranis’ unhinged villain and John Candy’s charm keep the comedy soaring.
John Carter (2012)
A Civil War veteran is transported to Mars, where he fights in an epic conflict in ‘John Carter.’ This adaptation of Edgar Rice Burroughs’ novel is a sweeping adventure.
Its alien cultures and grand battles feel like a lost ‘Star Wars’ tale. Despite its flaws, the film’s bold scope and Taylor Kitsch’s grit make it worth a look.
Valerian and the City of a Thousand Planets (2017)
Agents Valerian and Laureline navigate a sprawling space station to uncover a conspiracy in ‘Valerian and the City of a Thousand Planets.’ Luc Besson’s visuals are breathtaking.
The film’s vibrant alien worlds and fast-paced action echo ‘Star Wars’ energy. Dane DeHaan and Cara Delevingne bring charm to this ambitious, if uneven, epic.
Starship Troopers (1997)
Paul Verhoeven’s ‘Starship Troopers’ follows young soldiers battling giant alien bugs in a militaristic future. It’s a sharp satire disguised as a bombastic space opera.
The over-the-top action and biting commentary make it a unique gem. Casper Van Dien and Denise Richards lead a campy, thrilling fight for humanity.
WALL-E (2008)
Pixar’s ‘Wall-E’ follows a lonely robot cleaning a deserted Earth who chases a sleek probe into space. It’s a heartfelt tale with stunning animation and deep emotion.
The film’s cosmic journey and human struggle resonate with ‘Star Wars’ themes. Its mix of humor, heart, and adventure makes it a timeless space opera.
Dune: Part Two (2024)
‘Dune: Part Two’ continues Paul Atreides’ journey as he unites desert tribes against a galactic threat. Denis Villeneuve deepens the saga with darker themes and epic battles.
The film’s stunning visuals and complex characters rival the best of ‘Star Wars.’ Timothée Chalamet and Zendaya deliver powerful performances in this gripping sequel.
Which space opera film is your favorite, or did I miss a galactic gem? Drop your thoughts in the comments!