Reelixa Logo

Reelixa

Your source of reviews and news about movies

Best ufo-themed tv shows of all time

UFOs have always been a source of fascination. Here's a selection of the best TV series that have explored this phenomenon.

The Invaders
V
Dark Skies

From classic shows that shaped the genre to more modern takes, television has given us some compelling narratives involving UFOs and extraterrestrial encounters. The enduring appeal of these series lies in their ability to tap into our collective curiosity about what's out there, blending science fiction with elements of mystery, thriller, and sometimes even horror. Series like 'The X-Files' have become cultural touchstones, influencing not just television but also shaping public perception of UFOs and government conspiracies. Other notable shows, like 'Project Blue Book', draw inspiration from real-world investigations, adding a layer of authenticity to the fiction. Meanwhile, series such as 'Stranger Things', though not exclusively about UFOs, incorporate elements of government experimentation and unexplained phenomena. Whether you're a long-time ufology enthusiast or just looking for a captivating watch, these shows will surely take you on a journey beyond the stars and into the unknown.

10. Taken (2017)

Executive produced by Steven Spielberg, 'Taken' weaves an ambitious narrative about multiple generations of families affected by alien encounters, beginning with the Roswell incident in 1947. Over several decades, the series follows the Keys, Crawford, and Clarke families as they become entangled in a web of government conspiracies, alien abductions, and genetic experimentation. 'Taken' explores the long-term consequences of contact with extraterrestrial life, and the profound impact it has on human history and individual lives. The series also features a variety of UFO sightings, alien encounters, and paranormal phenomena, making it a compelling watch for UFO enthusiasts. It's a sweeping saga that combines science fiction with family drama, creating a unique and engaging viewing experience.

Taken

9. Alien Nation (1989)

'Alien Nation' presents a unique take on the alien encounter narrative. Three years after a spaceship carrying an alien race called the Tenctonese crash-lands in the Mojave Desert, the aliens, nicknamed "Newcomers," are integrated into human society. The series follows a human police officer, Matthew Sikes, who is partnered with a Tenctonese officer, George Francisco, as they navigate the challenges of solving crimes and building a cross-cultural partnership. 'Alien Nation' explores themes of prejudice, discrimination, and the struggle for acceptance in a society grappling with diversity. While the show focuses on the social and political implications of alien integration, it also touches upon the mysteries of the Newcomers' origins and their connection to the wider universe. It's a thought-provoking series that uses the alien encounter narrative to explore relevant social issues.

Alien Nation

8. Stranger Things (2016)

While not explicitly about UFOs, 'Stranger Things' incorporates elements of government conspiracies, secret experiments, and encounters with the unknown that resonate with the genre. Set in the 1980s, the series follows a group of kids in Hawkins, Indiana, as they investigate the disappearance of their friend and uncover a series of supernatural events connected to a parallel dimension known as the Upside Down. The show's themes of government cover-ups and the exploration of the unknown are reminiscent of classic UFO narratives, making it a compelling watch for fans of the genre. It's a great show that manages to capture the essence of the 80s.

Stranger Things

7. Roswell (1999)

'Roswell' (also known as 'Roswell High' in its first season) offers a teen-drama twist on the classic UFO story. Based on the 'Roswell High' book series, the show centers on a group of teenagers in Roswell, New Mexico, who discover that they are alien-human hybrids. The series explores themes of identity, belonging, and the struggle to fit in, all within the context of a small town steeped in UFO lore. What sets 'Roswell' apart is its focus on the emotional lives of its characters, and its exploration of the challenges they face as they come to terms with their extraterrestrial heritage. While the show features elements of science fiction and mystery, it is at its core a coming-of-age story about love, friendship, and the search for identity. It captures that late 90s/early 2000s teen angst perfectly.

Roswell

6. Fringe (2008)

While 'Fringe' delves into a variety of scientific anomalies and paranormal phenomena, its overarching narrative touches upon themes relevant to the UFO narrative, particularly in its exploration of alternate realities and advanced technologies. Created by J.J. Abrams, Alex Kurtzman and Roberto Orci, the series follows the Fringe Division, a team of FBI agents and scientists investigating unexplained events. Anna Torv, Joshua Jackson and John Noble lead a cast of incredible actors that will blow your mind. While not solely focused on UFOs, 'Fringe' shares with the UFO genre a fascination with the unexplained and a willingness to explore the boundaries of what is considered possible. The series' complex mythology and its exploration of parallel universes also raise questions about the nature of reality and the potential for extraterrestrial influence.

Fringe

5. Dark Skies (1996)

'Dark Skies' takes a historical approach to the UFO phenomenon, weaving a fictional narrative into actual events and figures from the 1960s. The series follows John Loengard and his girlfriend, Kimberly Sayers, as they become embroiled in Majestic-12, a top-secret government organization dedicated to concealing the truth about extraterrestrial contact. 'Dark Skies' stands out for its meticulous attention to historical detail and its use of real-life UFO incidents, such as the Roswell crash. The show's strength lies in its ability to create a believable world where the line between fact and fiction is blurred, and where the threat of alien invasion is ever-present. Despite its short run, 'Dark Skies' remains a cult favorite among UFO enthusiasts, offering a unique perspective on a fascinating and enduring mystery. It offers a great 'what if?' scenario rooted in historical accuracy.

Dark Skies

4. V (1983)

'V' (both the original 1983 miniseries and the 2009 remake) presents a chilling scenario: seemingly benevolent aliens arrive on Earth, offering technological advancements and solutions to global problems. However, their true reptilian nature and sinister agenda are soon revealed, leading to a human resistance movement. The original 'V' was a thinly veiled allegory for fascism, exploring themes of propaganda, oppression, and the fight for freedom. The show's iconic imagery – the Visitors' red uniforms and their taste for live animals – remains memorable. While the 2009 remake had a shorter run, it updated the premise for a new generation, exploring similar themes with a modern sensibility. 'V' is a cautionary tale about the dangers of blind trust and the importance of questioning authority. A key element of 80s television that still holds up to this day.

V

3. The Invaders (1967)

Roy Thinnes stars as architect David Vincent, who accidentally witnesses the landing of a UFO. He then makes it his mission to convince a disbelieving world that aliens have infiltrated society, taking human form. Although constrained by the special effects technology of the time, 'The Invaders' excels in creating a pervasive atmosphere of paranoia and suspense. Every shadow seems to conceal an alien, every friendly face could be a mask. The show's effectiveness lies in its exploration of themes like distrust, isolation, and the struggle to maintain sanity in the face of an overwhelming threat. Created by Larry Cohen, known for his independent horror films, this series is a classic of the sci-fi genre, and it remains surprisingly relevant today, inviting us to question who we can truly trust. Its influence can be seen in many subsequent series that explore similar themes of alien infiltration.

The Invaders

2. Project Blue Book (2019)

'Project Blue Book' offers a compelling glimpse into the U.S. Air Force's real-life investigation of UFO phenomena during the Cold War. Based on the actual files and experiences of Dr. J. Allen Hynek, played with captivating nuance by Aidan Gillen, the series blends historical fact with dramatic storytelling, creating a believable and suspenseful narrative. What sets 'Project Blue Book' apart is its commitment to exploring the cases with a sense of scientific curiosity, while also acknowledging the human element – the fear, wonder, and sometimes outright absurdity – that surrounds UFO encounters. It's a fascinating look at a pivotal moment in the history of UFO research, offering a balanced perspective that appeals to both skeptics and believers alike. The series also benefits from strong production values and a consistently engaging plot, making it a worthwhile watch for anyone interested in the history of UFOs and government investigations.

Project Blue Book

1. The X-Files (1993)

No series has captured the public's fascination with UFOs and government conspiracies quite like 'The X-Files'. With its iconic theme music and the palpable chemistry between David Duchovny and Gillian Anderson, the show brilliantly blends standalone 'monster-of-the-week' episodes with a sprawling, intricate mythology centered around alien visitation and shadowy cabals. Beyond the captivating storylines, the series' enduring appeal lies in its willingness to ask big questions about what's out there, tapping into our deepest anxieties and hopes about the unknown. Creator Chris Carter masterfully crafted a world where the truth is always out there, waiting to be discovered – or suppressed. A true television landmark, 'The X-Files' set the standard for sci-fi television for decades to come, influencing countless shows and cementing its place in pop culture history. It's a must-watch for anyone interested in UFOs, government secrets, or just great television.

The X-Files

More related articles about recommended movies and TV shows