Ryan Gosling is the man of the moment right now thanks to Project Hail Mary, but even the coolest movie star on the planet can’t avoid being upstaged by his extraterrestrial co-star. And it’s not surprising, really, given how adorable Rocky is.
If you’ve seen the new sci-fi movie, you’ll know just how brilliant that little fella is, and his chemistry with Gosling’s Ryland Grace is the crowning feature of this excellent film. But the concept of lovable aliens is nothing new.
For decades, science fiction stories have produced some of the cutest, most endearing creatures you could imagine. So, here are five of the sweetest movie aliens, kicked off with a special tribute to our new favourite, Rocky.
1. Rocky in Project Hail Mary (2026)
Having read the book beforehand, I had a feeling that Rocky would steal the show in Project Hail Mary. But even I didn’t quite expect the outpouring of love towards this spider-shaped boulder that has come with the release of the film. From the moment he’s introduced – and especially once he’s given a voice – Rocky is relentlessly kind, inquisitive, and very, very funny.
While his selflessness and compassion are the qualities that win us over in the film, we should also give special mention to the technical process that brought Rocky to life here. Rather than relying solely on CGI, the Project Hail Mary crew created an animatronic version of the character, with which Gosling could form a genuine bond. The voice work by puppeteer James Ortiz – who wasn’t even supposed to take on the vocal elements of the character – is also instrumental to making this whole dynamic a success. He brings such a playful, sincere vibe to the relationship with Gosling’s Grace.
2. Stitch in Lilo & Stitch (2002)
From one loveable alien who goes above and beyond to learn the ways of humankind, to another that quite honestly lives for nothing but sheer, unadulterated chaos. Stitch, or Experiment 626, as he’s officially known, is the very definition of a wildcard. From the moment he crash lands on Earth, he destroys pretty much everything he touches, but it’s hard to stay mad at this little blue guy.
The animated version of Lilo & Stitch is so full of life and colour, and all of that charm is entirely dependent on the infectious energy of its titular alien. This film is 86 minutes of pure joy, with wonderful music, striking visuals, and a heartwarming story. Find it on Disney+, along with the live-action movie.
3. Baby Groot in Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2 (2017)
Listen, baby versions of anything are just cute – I don’t make the rules. And few are quite as cute as Baby Groot. He shows up in the post-credit scene of the first movie, but it’s in Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2 where he really steps up. From dancing around during the opening battle sequence to making hilarious mistakes trying to rescue Rocket and Yondu, and almost messing up the climactic mission, Baby Groot is truly in his own little world. And it’s one I’d love to be a part of.
The film itself is a blast. It looks great, especially the vibrant visuals on Ego’s planet, and James Gunn does a brilliant job building on the excellent characters he established in the first outing for this quirky band of reluctant heroes. It’s not quite as funny as the first film, but Vol. 2 arguably has a more interesting and meaningful narrative. Plus, it’s got Kurt Russell, which automatically makes any film ten times better.
4. E.T. in E.T. The Extra-Terrestrial (1982)
E.T. may well be the most famous movie alien of all time. The iconic star of the Steven Spielberg movie is, let’s be honest, a little bit gross to look at, but it’s what’s inside that counts. And, in E.T. The Extra-Terrestrial, this wrinkly dude proves he’s packing a lot of heart, as well as the bravery to stand up for his newfound friends.
There’s just something about Spielberg’s movies. The man is obviously a legendary filmmaker, and E.T. is just one of many examples of how he’s able to produce genuine magic. It’s sentimental and a little bit silly, but it’s also incredibly imaginative and wholesome; all executed with impeccable technical skill, as always.
5. Ewoks in Return of the Jedi (1983)
If The Mandalorian and Grogu end up being as good as I hope, then you may well see Baby Yoda replacing the Ewoks in this list, but for now, the inhabitants of Endor will get their flowers. They’re fluffy and mischievous, but don’t be fooled, the Ewoks are brave and animalistic, and they put up quite a fight in the Battle of Endor.
It’s crazy to me that Star Wars fans weren’t happy with the introduction of the Ewoks in Return of the Jedi. They said the inclusion of these cute alien bears undermined the seriousness of the overarching story, but let’s get it straight: the Rebellion would not have won without the Ewoks.
6. Glordon in Elio (2025)
Just months before Rocky came into our lives in Project Hail Mary, we got another amazing alien in the form of Glordon, from the Disney Pixar movie, Elio. Like Rocky, Glordon completely steals the show and immediately earns your affection with his super sweet voice and gloriously innocent nature. Even though he looks like a tardigrade, all you want to do is give him a big cuddle and be his best buddy.
His emotional arc in Elio is the very core of the movie, too. Glordon feels he isn’t strong enough to gain his father’s love, but he eventually learns that sensitivity, kindness, and loyalty are far more important traits to cling to. My partner and I took our son to see it at the cinema and had so much fun together, so it will always have a special place in my heart. It’s the ideal adventure for any family with young kids to entertain, and I don’t think it would have been half as delightful were it not for Glordon.
