5 Unmissable Sci-Fi Movies on Hulu for Your Holiday Binge (December 2025)

Tired of the usual holiday classics? This Christmas Eve, an escape to the unknown awaits. From close encounters with terrifying aliens to mind-bending time travel, Hulu’s science-fiction collection offers the perfect retreat from reality. PRISM has curated a list of the best sci-fi films on the platform that do more than just entertain—they make you think about where humanity is headed.

The Enduring Terror of the Alien Universe

One of Hulu's biggest draws is its comprehensive collection of the Alien franchise. It all started with Ridley Scott's 1979 masterpiece, Alien. The film, which follows the crew of the Nostromo as they encounter the bloodthirsty Xenomorph, masterfully blends sci-fi with horror. Its iconic tagline, "In space, no one can hear you scream," perfectly captures the claustrophobic terror that has influenced the genre for decades.

James Cameron shifted gears in the 1986 sequel, Aliens, turning the slow-burn horror into a full-throttle action film. Sole survivor Ellen Ripley (Sigourney Weaver) returns to face her demons, and Weaver's powerful performance earned her an Oscar nomination—a rarity for the genre. The franchise returned to its horror roots with 2024's Alien: Romulus, a gnarly thriller that earned praise and a Visual Effects Oscar nomination.

Cult Classics and Cosmic Comedy

For those seeking a psychological trip, the cult classic Donnie Darko (2001) is a must-watch. Starring a young Jake Gyllenhaal, it tells the story of a troubled teenager who is told by a mysterious figure in a rabbit costume that the world will end in 28 days. It's a complex, shapeshifting film that continues to spark debate and analysis more than two decades later.

On the lighter side of the cosmos is The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy (2005), based on Douglas Adams' beloved book series. When Earth is unexpectedly demolished to make way for a hyperspace bypass, an unassuming Brit named Arthur Dent embarks on a hilarious adventure across the galaxy. It’s a witty and charming film that's a perfect antidote to more serious sci-fi fare.