Filmmakers have long held a fascination with the moon. From the earliest cinematic ventures to today’s hit properties, there’s no shortage of stories capitalizing on all things lunar. The most memorable contributions often prioritize a full moon over any other phases. This period where the moon appears in all its splendor — thanks to perfect placement between the Sun and Earth — carries with it a multitude of myths.
Whether utilizing aesthetics or offering story progression, some films just stand out for their contribution to the lore. Read on for the best movies about the full moon.
10Despicable Me
Every villain has their most coveted item. For Gru, that item just happens to be the moon.Despicable Meis full of moments surrounding his plan to capture the natural satellite, something he eventually succeeds in doing. A perfectly placed full moon offers a backdrop for the villain’s announcement to the loyal Minions.
After showing off his prized possessions. Gru heads upwards courtesy of a ridiculously high lift. The larger-than-life full moon not only highlights his plan, it also provides the perfect backdrop for the important reveal.
9The Nightmare Before Christmas
Cinematography can turn a full moon into a character all its own. The unique style ofThe Nightmare Before Christmasemphasizes background elements that amplify the emotions of its main characters; the results create a world built upon imagination but seemingly real to its legion of fans.
There are no phases of the moon to worry about in Halloween Town. Instead, the residents get a beautiful and bright full moon every day. The lunar spectacle offersa spooky sightthat adds ambiance, especially for Jack and Sally’s most romantic moment. The shot in front of the natural satellite has become one of the most memorable, appearing on a wide range of products.
8E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial
Many scenes have utilized the moon but few have done it as well asE.T. the Extra-Terrestrial. Steven Spielberg’s ode to childhood features a host of iconic moments, yet many still cite Elliott and E.T.’s ride to freedom as their favorite. The very image of the boy and his alien friend flying past the larger-than-life full moon has inspired filmmakers for decades. It’s also featured on merchandise, media, and even a ride inspired by the film.
7Batman (1989)
The moon plays a surprising role inTim Burton’s first outingwith the Caped Crusader. One of the film’s best-known images sees the Batwing fly upwards in front of a full moon before going into battle. The Joker’s murderous parade proves to be no match for Batman as he takes the villain’s gas-filled balloons away from innocent spectators.
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Their fight among the moonlit sky moves on to a cathedral which makes the most of its external lighting.Batmanalso finds inspiration from the moon in another way, as the Joker uses the line “Have you ever danced with the devil in the pale moonlight?” at pivotal points.
6Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl
The Curse of the Black Pearlcenters around the villains' push to release a curse. Captain Barbossa reveals that his crew have been cursed after taking a chest full of Aztec gold. The cost of this impressive find comes at a high price; their bodies appear as skeletons when moonlight hits them.
Using the full moon not only emphasizes the moon’s importance to their transformation, it also creates a spooky atmosphere that is perfect for the genre. The film doesn’t lessen the skeletons’ look in the moonlight — instead, it leans into a horrific look that still appeals to viewers of all ages.
5Bruce Almighty
The moon isn’t just for horror and sci-fi offerings.Bruce Almightyfollows a man who gets God’s powers and finds out how difficult it is to control the universe. This comedic film represents yet another hit for Jim Carrey, who stars as the wayward TV news reporter.
The project’s connection to the moon comes about as Brucesets up a romantic momentfor his girlfriend, played by Jennifer Aniston. He pulls the full moon closer and even makes some stars brighter too. It’s later revealed that Bruce’s lunar move is to the detriment of others who experience negative effects.
4Messiah of Evil
Cult horror films are the perfect venue for full moon-centric events.Messiah of Evilputs a ’70s twist on how a certain full moon, known as a blood moon, can impact a story. A young woman goes in search of her father but soon finds a strange community. Their secrets prove to be deadly, and she is soon fighting for her life.
This intriguing story revolves around someone known as the Dark Stranger, whose history includes the Donner Party. Warnings about the moon’s influence and its effects on residents come directly from his first appearance roughly 100 years ago.
3A Trip to the Moon
Le Voyage dans la Lune— also known asA Trip to the Moon— stands as one of the first films focusing on the moon. In fact, the 1902 project came at a time when cinema was an entirely new concept. Filmmaker Georges Méliès gives viewers a fantastical glimpse of what it could be like there, decades before humans would reach the natural satellite. Prior to their voyage, explorers gaze at the full moon. It’s no coincidence that a certain lunar phase is just right for their journey.
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2The Wolf Man
Universal’s classic monsters have a fan base all their own; films featuring these iconic creatures have become favorites among classic film fans and casual moviegoers alike.The Wolf Manranks as one of the studio’s best, creating a tense atmosphere and highlighting a second-generation acting legend.
Its premise introduces audiences to werewolf lore as the main character encounters the creature. He’s soon dealing with the effects of becoming a monster triggered by the full moon.
1An American Werewolf in London
It wouldn’t be a list about the full moon without a few werewolf movies.An American Werewolf in Londonoften ranks among the best films on the subject. The story sees two friends — David and Jack — on an English adventure when one is murdered and the otherattacked by a werewolf. After the incident, David deals with becoming his own version of the legendary creature.
The film is also noted for its transformation scene which is on par with effects seen in current cinematic offerings. Much of the credit for the shocking moment’s success goes to special effects makeup icon Rick Baker.
