Solar eclipses, with their captivating blend of beauty and mystery, have long fascinated humanity. They are a relatively rare and awe-inspiring natural phenomena, and when they do grace the silver screen, they often leave a lasting mark on cinematic storytelling. Whether you’re planning on celebrating at home, attending a local watch party, or traveling somewhere along the path of totality, here are some films to add to your watchlist leading up to the total solar eclipse on April 8, 2024.
1. “King Solomon’s Mines” (1937)
This classic adventure film, based on H. Rider Haggard’s novel, features an eclipse as part of its dramatic narrative, adding an element of suspense to the story’s exotic backdrop.
2. “A Connecticut Yankee in King Arthur’s Court” (1949)
A film adaptation of Mark Twain’s timeless tale, where a modern-day man, portrayed by Bing Crosby, finds himself transported back to the time of King Arthur. A solar eclipse becomes a pivotal plot point, blending elements of fantasy and science fiction.
3. “2001: A Space Odyssey” (1968)
Stanley Kubrick’s visionary masterpiece explores the evolution of humanity alongside celestial occurrences. At a pivotal point in the critically acclaimed film, a solar eclipse scene symbolizes the cosmic forces at play in the film’s exploration of human evolution and technological advancement.
4. “Little Shop of Horrors” (1976)
In this quirky musical comedy, a solar eclipse sets off the bizarre events surrounding a man-eating plant. The eclipse serves as a poetic backdrop for the chaos that unfolds, and even gets its own musical number, “Da-Doo.”
5. “A Knight in Camelot” (1998)
Loosely based off the same novel as #2 above, this lighthearted comedy sees a modern man transported to the medieval era of Camelot. A solar eclipse becomes a comedic plot device, adding an element of unpredictability to the protagonist’s adventures in the past.
6. “Judy Berlin” (1999)
Set against the backdrop of a much-anticipated solar eclipse, this indie drama stars Golden Globe-winner Edie Falco and explores themes of change and self-discovery in a small suburban town. The eclipse serves as a metaphorical catalyst for the characters’ personal journeys.
7. “Lara Croft: Tomb Raider” (2001)
In this action-packed adventure film based on the popular video game series, a solar eclipse plays a crucial role in the plot, with Angelina Jolie’s character racing against time before it reaches totality. The solar eclipse is depicted as a mystical event tied to ancient artifacts and secret societies in this box office hit.
8. “The Wild Thornberry’s Movie” (2002)
Animated adventure meets environmental activism in this child-friendly film adaptation of the popular ‘90s Nickelodeon series. A solar eclipse becomes a pivotal moment in the story, highlighting the interconnectedness of nature.
9. “Apocalypto” (2006)
Mel Gibson directed this epic historical drama that is set in ancient Mesoamerica. The film features a breathtaking solar eclipse sequence that underscores the themes of destiny, survival, and the collapse of civilizations.
10. “Avatar: The Way of Water” (2022)
In this long-awaited sequel, an eclipse is shown from an otherworldly point of view. Set on the fictitious moon of Pandora, the film exhibits undertones of the fears and anxieties people historically had towards eclipses. In this sci-fi blockbuster, inescapable conflict builds up to the explosive climax that coincides with eclipse.
While solar eclipses may be a rare occurrence in everyday life, you can count on Hollywood to bottle and convey the wonder through these cinematic eclipses as you await the next celestial spectacle in the real world.
