Take A Stab At Horror!
A Beginner’s Guide to Alien Horror/Sci-fi Movies
Whether you are a horror aficionado or have never really gotten into the genre, I truly believe there is something for everyone in the horror realm. Comedy tends to be the universal ice breaker. Being able to have a moment of levity in any horror movie is fantastic and helps the viewer either have a moment to breathe a bit or lets the audience in on an inside joke, like “Yes, we know this is a crazy situation, the characters think so too.” There are so many amazing horror comedies or horror films out there. This isn’t a “Best Of” list, but more of a sampling of awesome Alien Horror/Sci-fi movies to help guide you into the genre till you find yourself laughing yourself to death!
(Rating system is 1-5, with 5 Being the scariest. But all of these titles are on the milder side of horror if you are an avid horror watcher.)
ATTACK THE BLOCK
When aliens starting dropping out of the sky and invading the British projects, known as the Block, it’s up to a group of teens to protect the underserved community. This film is action-packed, has plenty of jump-scares, tons of humor, all while still having a poignant commentary of race and socioeconomic standings.
I really can’t say enough good things about this film. After first seeing it, my initial thought was “That lead kid should be a star!” That “kid” was John Boyega in his first movie role (Who later went on to play Finn in the Star Wars Series). There is a brilliant use of both practical and special effects. The aliens are both cheesy and utterly terrifying all at the same time. The film makes you think, while also making you laugh and scream at the same time.
SCREAMS: 4
COMEDY: 3
CAMPY: 3
GORE: 4
STREAMING: Tubi and available for rental.
TRAILER
MARS ATTACKS!
Alien spacecraft is seen on Earth! We now know we are not alone in the universe. Are these extraterrestrials misunderstood beings or are they harboring a more sinister plan?
This movie is Campy Headquarters! But the campiness is part of its charm. Tim Burton does a great job of paying homage to sci-fi films of the 1950’s era in this star-studded spoof film.
SCREAMS: 2
COMEDY: 3
CAMPY: 5
GORE: 4
STREAMING: Only available for rental and purchase.
TRAILER
MEN IN BLACK
An everyday police officer is recruited into the secret government agency, the Men in Black. They are tasked with keeping peace on Earth while keeping tabs on aliens from across the universe all while humans are none the wiser.
MIB is a comical take on a real conspiracy theory. The MIB is known as terrifying government agents who keep civilians and other government officials intimidated from speaking out about aliens. I didn’t know much about the real MIB when I first viewed this, but knowing the history adds a slightly ominous feel to these fun, light-hearted alien movies.
SCREAMS: 2
COMEDY: 5
CAMPY: 4
GORE: 2
STREAMING: DirecTV, Starz, and available for rental.
TRAILER
Looking for more? Check out other “Take A Stab at Horror” recommendations lists with movies similar in tone that include vampires, classics, slashers, and more!
Find more general Married to Horror selections by checking out our recommendations, lists and take a peek at our Master Watch List where you can find an array of horror films sorted by title, platform, rating, and more.
Did we miss any of your favorites? Comment below or email us at contact@marriedtohorror.com! You can also follow our Facebook group Married to Horror and follow us on Twitter and Instagram @marriedtohorror.
