The best sci-fi movies and TV shows to stream on Disney Plus in May

A scene from "Star Wars: The Clone Wars."
(Image credit: Lucasfilm)

Explore the best sci-fi movies and TV shows to stream on Disney Plus in May in our guide as we've highlighted all the out-of-this-world content the streaming service offers.

May is a huge month for cosmic content on Disney Plus as we celebrate "Star Wars" Day (May 4) with new episodes of "The Bad Batch" and a brand-new short series: "Tales of the Empire." Disney Plus is also the home of everything Star Wars so as well as all the movies, you can watch other hit shows like "The Mandalorian" and "Ahsoka." It's also the home of the Marvel Cinematic Universe so you can stream the Marvel movies in order and enjoy all the shows to go with it. Subscribers will also be able to enjoy the new series of "Doctor Who" which premieres this month and will see Ncuti Gatwa debut as the 14th Doctor.

Whether it is Star Wars or Marvel, "Futurama" or "Doctor Who" or even a documentary, Disney Plus has scintillating sci-fi action galore in the form of blockbuster and binge-worthy shows alike. We've split this guide into categories, so navigation is made easier and you can skip straight to the good bits if you wish to.

Of course, Disney Plus isn't the only streaming service with top sci-fi content out there, so if you can't quite get your fix here, you should check out our guides on the best sci-fi movies and TV shows to stream on Netflix, Amazon Prime and Paramount Plus. But if you want to check out the best sci-fi movies and TV shows to stream on Disney Plus in May, and celebrate Star Wars Day in style, read on below.

Star Wars

1) 'Star Wars' original trilogy

Darth Vader in the second "Star Wars" film, "The Empire Strikes Back."

(Image credit: Lucasfilm)

Watch or watch not, there is no try. Disney Plus is home to one of if not the biggest franchise in cinematic history, "Star Wars." Starting with "A New Hope" in 1977, the saga begins as a young Luke Skywalker meets Obi-Wan Kenobi, begins to learn the ways of the force, joins the Rebel Alliance and eventually blows up the Death Star. The start of a cinematic dynasty.

The story continues with what many consider the best film in the franchise's history, "The Empire Strikes Back." In this installment, Luke meets Master Yoda for the first time to enhance his Jedi training, The Empire fights the Rebel Alliance in the epic battle of Hoth and Darth Vader captures and holds Han Solo hostage before dropping one of the biggest bombshells in the history of cinema … But we're not going to spoil that; you'll have to watch it yourself. 

Finally, in "Return of the Jedi," this epic trilogy comes to its conclusion as the Emperor and Darth Vader try to coerce Luke over to the dark side while Han Solo, Princess Leia and the rest of the Rebel Alliance defeat the Empire in the battle of Endor, which results in the destruction of the second Death Star. 

2) 'Star Wars' prequel trilogy 

Obi-Wan Kenobi vs. Anakin Skywalker - Star Wars Episode III - Revenge of the Sith

(Image credit: Disney/Lucasfilm)

Disney Plus also houses the entire prequel trilogy, the story of how the galaxy fell into civil war. "The Phantom Menace" stars Liam Neeson, Ewan McGregor and Samuel L Jackson, and the film is best known for the antagonist, Darth Maul and his double edged lightsaber, as well as the epic battle between the Sith and two Jedi knights featuring one of the most recognizable pieces of music in the franchise, "Duel of the Fates."

The second installment, "Attack of the Clones," gives viewers their first look at a grown up Anakin as a Jedi. It's best known for its love story between Anakin and Padme Amidala and the battle of Geonosis, which sees a host of Jedi fighting side by side against a wave of droids. 

This trilogy comes to a close with what many people consider the best of the three films, "Revenge of the Sith." This film sees Chancellor Palpatine fully transition into the Emperor and Anakin transform into Darth Vader after killing Count Dooku and all the Jedi younglings. The film ends in an emotional battle between Obi-Wan and Anakin. 

3) 'Star Wars' sequel trilogy

Kylo Ren vs. Rey & Finn - Star Wars Episode VII - The Force Awakens

(Image credit: Disney/Lucasfilm)

This trilogy includes some of the most recent "Star Wars" films and tells the epic tale of what happens after the events of the original trilogy. It relays how, despite the Empire's defeat in the galactic civil war, The First Order rise to power and features the first female lead protagonist in the "Star Wars" movies.

"The Force Awakens" is the first film in this trilogy and the first since Disney bought Lucasfilms. It was a hit with most fans, who enjoyed seeing a whole host of new characters introduced to the franchise as well as the return of some old favorites including Han Solo, Princess Leia and a shock cameo in the final scene from Luke Skywalker. 

Episodes VIII and IX continue the journeys of Rey Skywalker, Po Dameron, Finn and Kylo Ren as the Rebellion continues its struggle against the First Order and questions are answered around Supreme Leader Snoke. We also learn of Kylo Ren's path to the dark side, Luke Skywalker's involvement in it and a surprise return of the Emperor as the trilogy comes to a thrilling end. 

4) 'Star Wars' anthology movies

Rogue One: A Star Wars Story. L to R: Cassian Andor (Diego Luna), Jyn Erso (Felicity Jones) and K-2SO (Alan Tudyk)..

(Image credit: Jonathan Olley © 2016 Lucasfilm Ltd. All Rights Reserved.)

"Star Wars: Rogue One" is the story of how the rebels obtained the Death Star plans in the first place and gives fans one of the most menacing impressions of Darth Vader since the original trilogy. An epic story ends as "A New Hope" begins, with Vader boarding a rebel ship while R2-D2 and C3PO escape with the plans. 

"Solo: A Star Wars Story" is Han Solo's origin story and we see how he meets characters like Chewbacca and Lando Calrissian for the first time. 

5) 'Obi-Wan Kenobi'

Obi-Wan Kenobi in desert with lightsaber_Obi-Wan Kenobi (2022)

(Image credit: Lucasfilm)

Ewan McGregor is reprising his role as the famous Jedi Master, Obi-Wan Kenobi in this TV series set between episodes III and IV. This series will tell the story of Obi-Wan watching over a young Luke Skywalker while evading the Empire's Jedi hunters during his exile on Tatooine.

The series began streaming back in 2022 and was initially due to be released on the anniversary of "A New Hope" but the launch was delayed. With the series finale was released in the Summer of that year, so you'll be able to binge watch this series, meaning you'll have your Disney Plus and Star Wars fix through the month. 

6) 'The Mandalorian'

See the story behind the visual effects of Disney Plus' "The Mandalorian" in an awesome Industrial Light and Magic sizzle reel.

(Image credit: Disney Plus/Lucasfilm)

The hit series is set five years after "Return of the Jedi" and tells the story of the Mandalorian, a bounty hunter and his sidekick Grogu (aka Baby Yoda). The Mandalorian, or Mando for short, works in the outer reaches of the galaxy, where he is far from the reaches of the newly formed Republic. 

This TV series is a great way for fans to get their "Star Wars" kick, and it's also a good introduction to the franchise as it features a lot of action and adventure, plenty of sci-fi and plenty of comedic moments. "The Mandalorian" has been very well received by fans and critics alike and all three seasons are available to stream in their entirety.

7) 'The Book of Boba Fett'

Released on December 29 2021, The Book of Boba Fett is an exciting addition to the Star Wars universe. A spinoff from "The Mandalorian" this new series sees Boba Fett navigate the underworld of the universe with "Fennec Shand" as they return to Tattooine to stake their claim on the territory formerly owned by Jabba the Hutt.  

Episodes six and seven came fresh for February 2022 with seven being the series finale. This series has proved a hit with fans and critics alike, and we think is reason enough to try Disney Plus if you haven't yet. 

8) 'Star Wars: Andor'

Andor

(Image credit: Lucasfilm/Disney Plus)

This story tells the tale of Cassian Andor, one of the heroes from 'Rogue One', but five years before his antics alongside Jyn Erso. 

We find our protagonist as a thief without too much going for him while plans to act out in rebellion against the Empire aren't on his agenda. We knew the least about this show that's new to our screens and it's been a huge success with fans. It premiered initially with two episodes, and new installments were then released weekly. All episodes are now available to binge. 

9) 'Ahsoka'

Ahsoka

(Image credit: Disney Plus)

This new series tells the story of former Jedi Knight Ahsoka Tano following the collapse of the Empire. Jedi Ahsoka Tano appears across a number of shows within the Star Wars franchise and now they have their own show, with all episodes now available to stream.

10) 'Star Wars: The Clone Wars'

Star Wars: The Clone Wars (2008)_Lucasfilm Ltd.

(Image credit: Lucasfilm Ltd.)

Set in the time between "Star Wars Episode II: Attack of the Clones" and "Star Wars Episode III: Revenge of the Sith," this animated series follows the wartime activities of Anakin, Obi-Wan and Yoda. "The Clone Wars" is well known for adding both story content and new characters to "Star Wars" canon, including Anakin's apprentice Ashoka Tano.

11) 'Star Wars: Rebels'

Star Wars Rebels

(Image credit: Disney XD)

"Star Wars: Rebels" is set between the events of "Revenge of the Sith" and "A New Hope." It tells the story of the Empire tightening its grip on the galaxy as it hunts down the last of the Jedi, but a rebellion in its infancy is taking shape. 

12) 'Star Wars: The Bad Batch'

"The Bad Batch," a Star Wars: Clone Wars spinoff on Disney Plus.

(Image credit: Disney Plus/Lucasfilm)

"Star Wars: The Bad Batch'' focuses on a clone special unit called "The Bad Batch'' who make their way across the newly established Empire, trying to find out why all other clone troops opposed their Jedi generals. 

Series two is now available to stream in its entirety as the Bad Batch continue their journey across the galaxy following events on Kamino. New episodes from season three are available to stream this month and you can check out how the fractured group survive new threats from different directions and the new alliances they'll have to form to free themselves from the Empire.

13) Lego 'Star Wars'

Lego Star Wars: Droid Tales, whose five-episode season wrapped up Nov. 2, rushes joyfully through the events of the six movies through R2-D2's and C-3PO's eyes.

(Image credit: Disney)

Disney Plus also has a collection of Lego "Star Wars" series and miniseries available to watch. These include "All Stars," "The Freemaker Adventures," "The Resistance Rises," Droid Tales" and "The New Yoda Chronicles," which take place all across the "Star Wars" timeline and tell stories in a family-friendly and humorous way. 

14) 'Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures' (Shorts)

Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures logo

(Image credit: Lucasfilm / Disney)

Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures is set during the High Republic Era and follows Jedi younglings on their journey to becoming a Jedi Knight as they study the force, help those in need and explore the galaxy.

15) 'Star Wars: Visions' Volume 2

Star Wars: Visions Volume 2

(Image credit: Lucasfilm)

This new volume of Star Wars: Visions shows a new perspective on the storied mythos of Star Wars with nine new shorts from nine studios around the world, incorporating different animation styles from different countries. 

16) 'Tales of the Empire'

Tales Of The New Empire Series Poster

(Image credit: Lucasfilm/Disney)

This new animated short series of six episodes tells the tale of Morgan Elsbeth's  past and Barriss Offee's next chapter after leaving the Jedi Order. It's a welcome addition, seemingly to Star Wars' lore and the trailer packs more of a punch than fans might have expected. It's due to premiere on Star Wars Day, May 4.

Marvel

1) Marvel's "Avengers" 1-4 

Avengers art

(Image credit: Marvel)

The first Marvel entry on this list, "The Avengers" films were all cinematic highlights of the 2010s, and each film is a coming together of all the best superheroes in the Marvel Comic Universe. The first film features Iron Man, Captain America, The Hulk, Hawkeye, Black Widow and Thor. The following three movies include the likes of Spiderman, Black Panther, Vision and more as they collectively bring the 11-year story to its conclusion. 

These films are more than worthy of their place in this list, as aliens from outer space threaten the fate of Earth and it's down to the Avengers to save the planet. Thanos, who is the main enemy through these films, is known as the destroyer of worlds, and the theme of space and exoplanets is explored greatly, especially in "Infinity War" and "Endgame." 

Marvel's "Avengers" films all have a great blend of sci-fi, action and comedy, which mean they are great for viewing even if comic book heroes aren't totally your thing.

2) 'Guardians of the Galaxy' Volumes 1,2 and 3

Guardians of the Galaxy

(Image credit: Disney Plus)

Starring Chris Pratt as "Star Lord," these films have a great blend of space exploration, action, comedy and a good story to go with it. Each film has a soundtrack largely from the 1980s, the era in which the protagonist, Star Lord, grew up. "Guardians of the Galaxy" Vol. 1 is also a key film in the Marvel Comic Universe, as the story revolves around an "infinity stone" that Thanos needs to collect in order to wipe out half of the universe.

Vol. 2 picks up where Vol. 1 leaves off, with more great comedy, action sequences and the evolving love story between Gamora and Star Lord. In the second film, Star Lord — helped by Gamora, Drax, Groot and Rocket — finds out who his father is and discovers that he is half-celestial and half-human. 

Vol. 3 is available to stream from August 2023, and is the final instalment in the franchise. It's an emotional send off for the crew with a strong narrative focus on "Rocket" but this is definitely a movie to appease new and returning fans alike. 

3) 'Iron Man'

Iron Man_Marvel

(Image credit: Marvel)

All of the Iron Man movies are available to stream on Disney Plus and it's here, in the first movie, that the "Infinity Saga" begins. Tony Stark, played by Robert Downey Jr., creates a weaponized suit of armor to fight evil.

Across the franchise, he fights numerous villains, offers plenty of entertainment and plays a pivotal role in setting up the first two Avengers movies. He also goes on a personal journey from being a brilliant but brash billionaire genius to discovering whether the suit makes the man or vice versa. Along the way we are introduced to numerous new characters that also have big roles across the Marvel franchise. 

4) 'Thor'

Thor_Marvel

(Image credit: Marvel)

Another Avenger with their own franchise within the Marvel Cinematic Universe, Thor is a superhero based on the Norse god of the same name. Played by Chris Hemsworth, Thor is a mighty yet arrogant God, who is banished from Asgard to live on Earth. 

While he becomes one of humanity's greatest defenders, Thor balances keeping peace in the universe, finding love, battling family differences and overcoming villains. It is one of the most instantly recognizable franchises within the Marvel Cinematic Universe and the four Thor films expand across all Avenger movies.

5) 'Captain America'

Captain America The Winter Soldier_Marvel

(Image credit: Marvel)

If you're looking at chronological order, this is where the Infinity Saga begins. Another instantly recognizable superhero, Steve Rodgers is a weak and sickly man, rejected for military service in World War 2 but transforms into Captain America after being injected with super soldier serum. 

There is three films in the Captain America franchise: "The First Avenger," "The Winter Soldier" and "Civil War." Captain America is one of the leading superheroes within the Avengers and there's a lot of content with in the Captain's movies that help set up the first two Avengers, with Civil War acting as a direct fall-out of "Avengers: Age of Ultron"

6) 'Spider-Man'

Spider-Man Homecoming_Marvel

(Image credit: Marvel)

Peter Parker must come to terms with his new found superhero identity while living at home with his Aunt, May. While trying to be the friendly neighborhood Spider-Man, Parker faces threats from villains to his school friends as well as the rest of the world, while under the watchful eye of Tony Stark, to begin with.

There are three movies in this Spider-Man franchise and the events of which start after Avengers: Age Of Ultron and then continue after "Endgame."

7) 'Ant-Man'

Ant-Man_Marvel

(Image credit: Marvel)

The three movies in the Ant-Man franchise are pivotal in understanding the nuances of the Infinity Saga, not to mention they contain plenty of humor along the way too. If you're wanting to watch the movies in chronological order, the first instalment is the first watch after Age Of Ultron and the second movie is the last watch before "Infinity War"

Scott Lang, played by Paul Rudd, is a con-man who becomes armed with a super suit that has the extraordinary ability to shrink in size but increase strength astronomically. Along the way, Lang must balance being a superhero and a father while travelling to different realms and fighting all sorts of weird and wonderful villains.  

7) 'Doctor Strange'

Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness

(Image credit: Marvel Studios)

Benedict Cumberbatch stars as Doctor Strange in this two-movie franchise as he plays a fantastic neurosurgeon who suffers a terrible car accident that nearly takes his life. Strange undertakes a journey of physical and spiritual healing for his recovery where he discovers and tries to perfect the world of mystical arts.

Strange plays a crucial role in the Infinity Saga and his story is intertwined with a number of other superheroes. As his powers with the mystic arts grow stronger, he is able to travel between realms and multi-verses. 

9) 'Captain Marvel'

Captain Marvel in Endgame.

(Image credit: Marvel Studios)

So far, there's only been the one Captain Marvel movie, despite appearing in numerous other franchise movies. Carol Danvers (Captain Marvel) is one of the most powerful superheroes in the universe and is caught in a galactic war between two alien races. Her story takes place right at the start of the Infinity Saga, between Captain American and Iron Man's first movies. 

10) 'Black Panther'

Black Panther_Marvel

(Image credit: Marvel)

There are two movies in this franchise and it tells the story of T'Challa, the prince who becomes king and must prevent the reclusive but advanced nation of Wakanda from being dragged into war, while fending off challengers to his throne. 

The second movie once again involves forces seeking to invade Wakanda, but can their leaders band together to save the nation once again?

11) 'Black Widow'

Black Widow_Marvel

(Image credit: Marvel)

This standalone movie tells the story of Natasha Romanov, A.K.A. Black Widow and a dangerous conspiracy linked to her past. She is perused by a force that will stop at nothing to see her demise, and she must confront broken relationships and her days as a spy in order to overcome absolute peril.  

12) 'The Marvels'

Still from The Marvels (2023) movie. All The Marvels all standing together looking upwards in the same direction. From left to right: Ms. Marvel (teen with long dark hair wearing a red, white and blue supersuit), Captain Marvel (long blonde hair wearing a blue and red supersuit with a giant gold star-like emblem on the front) and Monica Rambeau (dark tightly curled hair down to her shoulders and wearing a black and white supersuit with a smaller silver teardrop-shaped emblem on her chest).

(Image credit: Disney/Marvel)

Captain Marvel gets her powers intertwined with a super-fan, Kamala Khan and S.A.B.E.R. astronaut Captain Monica Rambeau. shortly after reclaiming her identity. Together, they must work to save the universe. 

13) 'The Eternals'

Marvel Eternals

(Image credit: Disney)

Following the events of Avengers: Endgame, the ancient alien race called The Eternals, who have been living on Earth in secret, come out of hiding to defeat an old enemy known as the Deviants.

14) 'Shang-Chi And The Legend Of The 10 Rings'

Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings_Marvel

(Image credit: Marvel)

Shang-Chi, master of weaponry-based Kung Fu, must confront his past after he is dragged into the 10-rings organisation. 

15) 'Morbius'

Marvel's Morbius

(Image credit: Disney/Marvel)

Biochemist, Michael Morbius infects himself with a form of vampirism accidentally as he conducts an experiment to try and cure himself of a rare blood disease. In an attempt to save himself and in turn, find a cure for others suffering from the same issue, Morbius creates something worse than the disease itself. 

16) 'Loki'

a man in a suit looks up, forlorn

(Image credit: Marvel Studios/Disney+)

A spin-off series from Marvel Studios, "Loki" focuses on the title character and his role as the god of mischief. The series is set after the events of "Avengers: Endgame" and features lots of alien life, cool special effects and different world settings. Acclaimed by critics and fans alike, "Loki" offers a great blend of science fiction, action and adventure with new episodes available to stream from November 2023.

17) 'Wanda Vision'

WandaVision_Marvel

(Image credit: Marvel)

Wanda Maximoff and Vision live out their lives in a sitcom based style before they start to suspect everything isn't as it seems. 

18) 'Hawkeye'

Hawkeye_Marvel

(Image credit: Marvel)

One of the original avengers, Hawkeye get his own series in which a 22-year-old archer, Kate Bishop looks to take on the role of Hawkeye from Clint Barton following his retirement from the Superhero group. His sole focus now that he's retired from being a superhero is getting back to his family for Christmas with the help of Bishop. 

19) 'Moon Knight'

Moon Knight

(Image credit: Disney/Marvel)

This Marvel TV show tells the story of gift shop employee, Steven Grant (Oscar Isaac) who becomes plagued with blackouts and flashbacks of another life. Steven Later discovers he has had powers from an Egyptian Moon God thrust upon him. These powers mean Steven shares his body with a Mercenary named Marc Spector, as the powers become both a blessing and a curse. Steven and Marc explore their complex identities to investigate a deadly mystery among the Egyptian gods while their enemies converge on them. 

20) 'She-Hulk: Attorney At Law'

She-Hulk: Attorney at Law (2022)

(Image credit: Marvel Studios)

This addition to the Marvel timeline is available to stream in its entirety. In this series, we see Jennifer Walters face the difficulties of balancing having a regular life, being an attorney and being a super-strong, green and angry she-hulk.

21) 'Secret Invasion'

Secret Invasion

(Image credit: Marvel Studios)

This entry into the Marvel Cinematic Universe is centered around Nik Fury as he recruits Skrull Talos, among others, to defeat a clandestine invasion of Earth by shapeshifters, known as Skrulls. They must work together to save Earth - all episodes are available to stream. 

8) 'Doctor Strange'

1) 'Lightyear'

Lightyear

(Image credit: Disney/Pixar)

The film that inspired the 'Buzz Lightyear' toys and indeed the character of the same name in the "Toy Story" franchise. This spin-off is an animated Summer 2022 blockbuster and has landed on Disney Plus. Notably, Chris Evans (Captain America) is the voice of Buzz Lightyear and not Tim Allen, who voiced Buzz Lightyear in the Toy Story films. 

2) 'Tron'

Tron

(Image credit: IMDb)

This brilliantly colorful 1980s sci-fi action/adventure film sees hacker and arcade owner Kevin Flynn abducted into a digital world. Once in the computerized world, Flynn interacts with programs and joins forces with "Tron'' to outmanoeuvre the Master Control Program (which holds them captive) in what is essentially an ever-challenging, massive computer game. "Tron Legacy" is a sequel that was released in 2010. It's Also on Disney Plus.  

3) 'Armageddon' 

A crew of unlikely heroes are called on to save the Earth from an asteroid in Armageddon (1998).

(Image credit: Getty)

"Armageddon" is an epic 1998 sci-fi film that sees a giant civilization-destroying asteroid hurtling toward Earth. The only way to stop it is to drill into its core and detonate a nuclear bomb down there. (No, this is not how we'd actually tackle a killer asteroid.)  The star-studded line-up includes Bruce Willis and Ben Affleck, who play members of an underfunded but resourceful team that are humanity's last hope as hysteria grips the public around the world.  

4) 'Alita: Battle Angel' 

alita: battle angel

(Image credit: 20th Century Fox)

"Alita: Battle Angel" is a 2019 story of a deactivated cyborg who gets reactivated but cannot remember who she is or anything from her past. Dr. Dyson Ido (played by Christoph Waltz) discovers Alita and sees her as the key to ending death and destruction. Ironically, the things she must do to fulfill her purpose are fight and kill. 

5) 'X-Men' movies

X-men movie art

(Image credit: TechRadar)

This comic book-turned movie franchise is instantly recognizable and is enjoyed by many all over the world. The films tell the story of mutants with superpowers and their constant struggles against people who fear them. "X-Men" gave Hugh Jackman arguably his most recognized role (Wolverine), and the original trilogy features Patrick Stewart as Charles Xavier and Sir Ian McKellen as Magneto, the character who originally devises an evil plan for war.   

6)  'Independence Day'

Will Smith and Jeff Goldblum from the movie Independence Day

(Image credit: The Independent)

Will Smith and Jeff Goldblum star in this 1996 sci-fi disaster movie, in which an invading alien species destroys major cities around the world including New York, London and Moscow. Humanity discovered the plans of the invading aliens just days before their attack, and on the Fourth of July, we fight back, making it the world's Independence Day.

Independence Day: Resurgence is also available to stream, set two decades after the events of the first movie and also starring Jeff Goldblum.

7) 'Alien' Franchise

Aliens 1986 movie

(Image credit: 20th Century Fox)

The "Alien" franchise is a favorite among sci-fi fans, not least for the first couple of instalments that captivated audiences around the world. Sigourney Weaver plays Ellen Ripley - the protagonist to begin with - and has to fight against Xenomorphs in the first batch of movies. "Prometheus" is the pick of the more recent additions to the franchise, and ranking among some of the best of all the 'Alien' films.  A lot of tension, gore, sci-fi and action help make this franchise a classic and has helped it to resonate with fans for over 40 years.  

8) 'Avatar' and 'Avatar: The Way Of Water

Avatar 2

(Image credit: 20th Century Studios)

"Avatar" is a modern classic from director James Cameron. The movie tells the story of paraplegic Marine Jake Sully, who agrees to infiltrate a native alien species on the exomoon  Pandora while going undercover as an avatar of one of the Na'vi species. While undercover, Sully falls in love with one of the natives and decides to fight back against his colonel's efforts to drive out the Na'vi and mine the woodland for minerals and resources. 

The second movie sees Jake Sully as his avatar with a family and as leader of his tribe. They are driven out of the forest and forced to live among another tribe on the water's edge. There, legend becomes reality and they fight back against a human military and brutal mining corporation. 

9) 'Wall-E' 

WALL-E patting couch_WALL-E_Disney PIXAR

(Image credit: Disney/PIXAR)

A family-film entry to this list, "Wall-E" is the story of an adorable robot whose primary job is to clear Earth of trash after humanity has left to settle on another planet. Set in the future, Wall-E (the name of the robot protagonist) is alone on Earth before meeting EVE, a reconnaissance robot sent to Earth to prove it is a habitable planet. The main draw of this film is the love story between the two robots.  

10) 'Free Guy'

Free Guy

(Image credit: Disney)

Released on Disney Plus in February 2022, Ryan Reynolds stars as 'Guy,' a bank teller with a fairly routine and normal life. That is until, he discovers he is a character in an open-world video game. After discovering this, Guy is determined to rewrite his own life in a world that has no limits, save his computerized world from being erased and perhaps find a little romance along the way.  

11) 'Marvel Super Hero Adventures: Frost Fight!'

Marvel Super Hero Adventures: Frost Fight!

(Image credit: Disney)

In this animated movie, the Marvel heroes come together to stop Loki and Ymir (a frost giant) from stealing Santa Claus's powers, which they intend to use to rule the world. Perfect for some Marvel festive fun. 

12) 'Venom'

"Venom 2" will premiere in 2021.

(Image credit: Sony)

Tom Hardy plays Eddie Brock, who is at his lowest point in life when he becomes host to an alien symbiote which results in him having extraordinary powers. Venom, as he comes to terms with these powers, must choose whether to use his newfound superpowers for good or for evil, and it's not always an easy choice to make. There are two movies in this mini franchise.

13) 'Indiana Jones And The Dial Of Destiny'

Indiana Jones rides on horseback through New York City during the ticker tape parade thrown for the Apollo 11 astronauts in a scene from "Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny," now in theaters.

(Image credit: Lucasfilm)

Although the Indiana Jones franchise may not be the first thing you think of when you think of 'sci-fi' but the latest addition to the saga revolves around a dial that has the ability to alter the course of history. With time travel possible, archaeologist Indiana Jones pits his wits against against a former Nazi, who works for NASA.

TV Shows

1) 'X-Men' animated series 

X-men animated series

(Image credit: Marvel)

The "X-Men" animated series tells a continuing story of the problems mutants face at the hands of a human populace that resents their very existence and the evil of a select few mutants who want to make the world submit to their will. Charles Xavier's school for gifted children is a sanctuary for mutants to learn to control their powers and to try and fit in, as well as being home to the X-Men. 

2) 'The Orville'

(Image credit: Hulu)

From creator Seth MacFarlane, is this worth-the-watch TV series that has plenty of sci-fi adventure, drama and comedy. Set 400 years in the future, this series tells the story of the crew onboard the U.S.S Orville as they explore the mysteries of the universe, as well as the complexities of their own relationships. 

3) 'Phineas and Ferb' 'Star Wars' crossover 

Phineas and Ferb: Star Wars

(Image credit: Disney XD)

Although this isn't "Star Wars" canon, the popular children's show "Phineas and Ferb" does offer a cute crossover where the title characters interact with "Star Wars" characters when telling the story of "A New Hope." 

4) 'Futurama' 

The TV series Futurama will air in its entirety on the Syfy channel, starting Nov. 11.

(Image credit: Syfy)

The hit animated series from Matt Groening set in the year 3000 is on Disney Plus! The long-running futuristic comedy focuses on the antics of Fry, a delivery boy who was accidentally cryogenically frozen for 1,000 years and gets a job with Planet Express in the 31st century. Fry and his friends, including Bender (a robot) and Leela (a one-eyed mutant), get up to shenanigans all across the universe as well as in their resident city, New New York.

5) 'Mars'

Mars TV Show

(Image credit: National Geographic)

First airing in 2016, this two-series TV show depicts the first manned mission to the Red Planet in an attempt colonize it in 2033.

6) 'Crater'

Crater

(Image credit: Disney+)

After the death of his father, Caleb is about to be relocated to a faraway planet after being raised on lunar mining colony. But before he goes, Caleb and his friends hijack a rover to explore a mysterious crater as this final adventure could fulfil his father's wish. 

7) 'Doctor Who'

Bernard Cribbins and David Tennant in Doctor Who (2005).

(Image credit: Photo by BBC/Adrian Rogers)

Ncuti Gatwa stars in his debut season as the Doctor, the 14th actor to do so. New episodes are available to stream from May 2024.

The infamous timelord also has specials available to stream on Disney Plus. David Tennant, a fan favorite as The Doctor, reprises his role for a couple of 60th-anniversary specials before we finally get a look at Ncuti Gatwa as the new Doctor in this year's holiday special. 

Documentaries

1) 'Among The Stars'

The new docuseries "Among the Stars" launches on Disney Plus Oct. 6, 2021.

(Image credit: Disney Plus)

New for this year, "Among The Stars" is a docu-series that takes a behind-the-scenes look at NASA's mission to repair a $2 billion science experiment (the Alpha Magnetic Spectrometer) which aims to reveal the origins of the universe. 

2) 'Hubble's Cosmic Journey' 

Hubble's Cosmic Journey

(Image credit: Disney Plus)

After launching in 1990, The Hubble Telescope has revolutionized what we know about the universe and has taken stunning pictures of space. Narrated by Neil deGrasse Tyson, this documentary tells the definitive story of one of the most successful scientific ventures ever.

3) 'Mission Pluto' 

Mission Pluto

(Image credit: Disney Plus)

This exciting documentary tells the story of New Horizons, a NASA spacecraft launched to explore the furthest parts of our solar system. The spacecraft will be used to intercept, give us a clearer picture of and better our understanding of the ninth planet or 'dwarf planet', Pluto. 

4) 'Welcome to Earth'

Released in December, Will Smith presents this docu-series that takes a look at the hidden worlds within ours. It shows extreme ends of the planets from active volcanos to deep ocean adventures and more. 

5) 'Aliens of the Deep' 

Director/Producer James Cameron heads deep into the ocean during filming of Aliens of the Deep.

(Image credit: Disney Enterprises, Inc./Walden Media, LLC.)

Filmmaker James Cameron teams up with NASA scientists and marine biologists to try and explore some of Earth's deepest, most extreme and unexplored environments. This documentary is the result of multiple expeditions to deep-sea hydrothermal vent sites and takes a look at some of the life forms that live there. The vents could be similar to environments on other worlds, so maybe the creatures that live there could be similar too.

6) 'Expedition Mars: Spirit and Opportunity' 

Expedition Mars: Spirit and Opportunity

(Image credit: National Geographic)

"Expedition Mars: Spirit and Opportunity" tells the story of the twin Mars rovers that helped save NASA's Mars program and showed the world that water once flowed on the Red Planet. 

7) "Mars Inside SpaceX" 

Mars Inside SpaceX

(Image credit: National Geographic)

This documentary goes behind the scenes of SpaceX and its plan to get humanity to Mars. "Mars Inside SpaceX" gives us an insight into SpaceX founder and CEO Elon Musk and his team of engineers as they experience triumphs and setbacks over the course of the three years during which this documentary was filmed. 

8) 'One Strange Rock'  

Visual effects enhance a view of Earth captured by the International Space Station.

(Image credit: NASA)

This docu-series gives us an insight into our planet and what makes it so special, but from a unique perspective as astronauts tell the story of Earth.

9) 'The Space Race'

The Space Race Documentary Poster

(Image credit: What's On Disney Plus)

This new documentary tells the stories of Black astronauts as they aim to break down the barriers of social injustice to reach the stars and beyond. From 1963 through to 2020, Black astronauts, scientists and engineers at NASA have at times felt worlds apart from colleagues, despite wanting to achieve the same goal. This new documentary weaves together and tells some of those stories.  

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Elizabeth Howell
Staff Writer, Spaceflight

Elizabeth Howell (she/her), Ph.D., is a staff writer in the spaceflight channel since 2022 covering diversity, education and gaming as well. She was contributing writer for Space.com for 10 years before joining full-time. Elizabeth's reporting includes multiple exclusives with the White House and Office of the Vice-President of the United States, an exclusive conversation with aspiring space tourist (and NSYNC bassist) Lance Bass, speaking several times with the International Space Station, witnessing five human spaceflight launches on two continents, flying parabolic, working inside a spacesuit, and participating in a simulated Mars mission. Her latest book, "Why Am I Taller?", is co-written with astronaut Dave Williams. Elizabeth holds a Ph.D. and M.Sc. in Space Studies from the University of North Dakota, a Bachelor of Journalism from Canada's Carleton University and a Bachelor of History from Canada's Athabasca University. Elizabeth is also a post-secondary instructor in communications and science at several institutions since 2015; her experience includes developing and teaching an astronomy course at Canada's Algonquin College (with Indigenous content as well) to more than 1,000 students since 2020. Elizabeth first got interested in space after watching the movie Apollo 13 in 1996, and still wants to be an astronaut someday. Mastodon: https://qoto.org/@howellspace

With contributions from
  • betsycollins
    Like you said, on reddit PureVPN is quite popular for Disney Plus, especially since its so reasonably priced
    Reply