5.) Arrival (2016) I don’t typically like super abstract movie aliens but I do like the massive size of these weird walking squid aliens. Plus having them only visible behind that smoky glass wall was a nice touch that added an additional layer of intrigue to them. And of course the strange inky smoke they use to communicate is cool too.
4.) District 9 (2009) I'm not big on insectoid style aliens but the "prawns" in District 9 are pretty damn cool and very endearing. Plus I love the idea of a hobo aliens living in a scary shanty town below their giant floating ship.
3.) Alien (1979) I don't think this one really needs any explanation; the Xenomorph inspired by artist H.R. Giger might be the most iconic movie alien ever. And most people would probably have it in their #1 slot, but I like my aliens super intelligent--not as mentally sophisticated as a honey badger. Plus the mouth coming out of the mouth thing was a little ridiculous.
2.) Predator (1987) Now typically I like my aliens naturalistic and believable, but even though this alien has a bit of a comic book feel I still love it. The mask is great, the hair is great, and the little shoulder laser is great. Oh and of course the face reveal at the end is incredible. I mean it really is one of the more unique aliens ever imagined.
1.) Fire in the Sky (1993) Believable, naturalistic and still absolutely terrifying… These things were the work of Industrial Light and Magic who did the first Star Wars trilogy, E.T., Back to the Future, and Jurassic Park to name just a few. I know these aliens aren't physically intimidating by any means but the examination scene onboard their space craft is 100% nightmare fuel. They just feel so damn alive and real.