Movies like Midnight Special

A science fiction classic by Steven Spielberg, Close Encounters of the Third Kind explores humans' first contact with extraterrestrial beings. Like Midnight Special, it combines mystery and awe while following a protagonist driven to an unknown destiny entwined with alien life.

Another Spielberg film, E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial tells the story of a gentle alien stranded on Earth and the children who work to protect and help him return home. Its blend of heartfelt drama and science-fiction elements resonate with the story and tone of Midnight Special.

The Iron Giant, an animated feature directed by Brad Bird, is about a young boy who befriends a giant robot from outer space. Similar to Midnight Special, it’s a tale of friendship, government intervention, and the extraordinary, focusing on a misunderstood entity with powers beyond understanding.

James Cameron’s The Abyss takes a deep dive into science fiction with a story about a civilian diving team that encounters an underwater alien species. The film’s intense suspense and interaction with the unknown echo the themes found in Midnight Special.

Super 8 shares the theme of children in possession of a supernatural secret around which the plot revolves, much like the young protagonist in Midnight Special. Directed by J.J. Abrams, the film delivers a nostalgic lens into the world of government conspiracy and extraterrestrial phenomena, set against a small-town backdrop.

Directed by John Carpenter, Starman is about an alien who takes the form of a young widow's husband and asks her to drive him to a pickup location. This sci-fi romance focuses on connection and understanding between species, offering a compassionate look at its non-human character as seen in Midnight Special.

Also directed by Jeff Nichols, Take Shelter delves into the psyche of a man plagued by apocalyptic visions, compelling him to protect his family at all costs. Viewers who appreciate Nichols' subtle storytelling and tension-building in Midnight Special will likely find the same engrossing qualities in Take Shelter.