Is Distant Lights Worth Watching?
Answer: Maybe not, Distant Lights is likely a skip if you enjoy Science Fiction movies.
It features a runtime of 89 minutes and offers a standard storyline that appeals to mature audiences.
Distant Lights Review
Last updated: January 12, 2026
Detailed Premise & Narrative Foundations
Released in the dynamic cinematic landscape of 1987, Distant Lights emerges as a significant entry in the Science Fiction, Horror domain. The narrative core of the film focuses on a sophisticated exploration of Alien spirits from outer space land on earth and take over the bodies of the recently deceased--but their purpose isn't what it would appear to be. Unlike standard genre fare, Distant Lights attempts to deconstruct traditional tropes, offering a conventional take on its central themes.
The screenplay, appearing to prioritize narrative momentum and immediate impact, sets a stage where the stakes feel personal yet universal. Under the directorial eye of Aurelio Chiesa, every scene is crafted to contribute to the atmospheric weight of the story, ensuring that the Science Fiction elements serve the larger narrative arc rather than just providing spectacle.
Cast Performances: A Masterclass in Character Study
The success of any Science Fiction is often anchored by its ensemble, and Distant Lights features a noteworthy lineup led by Tomas Milian. Supported by the likes of William Berger and Giacomo Piperno, the performances bring a palpable realism to the scripted words.
Performance Analysis: While the cast delivers competent and professional performances, they are occasionally hampered by a script that leans into familiar archetypes. However, the sheer charisma of Tomas Milian, William Berger, Giacomo Piperno manages to keep the audience invested through the film's more predictable sequences. In the broader context of 1987 cinema, these performances stand as a testament to the evolving standards of acting within the Science Fiction, Horror space.
Directorial Vision & Technical Craftsmanship
From a technical perspective, Distant Lights is a marvel of 21st-century filmmaking. The cinematography, utilizing a moody and atmospheric color palette, significantly enhances the world-building aspects of the production. Each frame seems calculated to guide the viewer's emotional response, whether through wide, sweeping vistas or tight, claustrophobic close-ups that emphasize character isolation.
Technical Excellence: The production design and visual effects provide a solid foundation for the story, ensuring that the world of the film feels lived-in and authentic, even when the narrative logic falters. Furthermore, the sonic landscape—comprising both the score and sound design—adds a layer of subtextual narrative that rewards attentive viewers.
Narrative Pacing & Structural Integrity
The structure of Distant Lights follows a sophisticated brisk pace. Over its 89 minute duration, the film manages to balance exposition with action in a way that remains consistently entertaining. The second act, often the most difficult to manage, serves here as a crucible for character growth, leading toward a climax that feels both inevitable and surprising.
Critically, the editing choices by the team help maintain a narrative tension that rarely wavers. The sharp, concise editing ensures that not a single frame is wasted, making the film ideal for a modern audience that values efficiency in storytelling.
Cultural Impact & Global Resonance
Beyond its immediate entertainment value, Distant Lights resonates with contemporary social and cultural themes prevalent in the Science Fiction landscape of 2026. It addresses concepts such as the nature of heroism and personal legacy with a level of maturity that is often missing from major releases.
This cultural relevance is likely why it has garnered a 4.7/10 rating on our platform. Films like this bridge the gap between niche interest and global appeal, proving that stories rooted in specific human experiences can find a home with audiences worldwide, from the US and UK to India and beyond.
Plot Breakdown & Philosophical Subtext
Analyzing the plot deeper, Distant Lights is more than just its synopsis. It is an inquiry into the boundaries of human experience. Alien spirits from outer space land on earth and take over the bodies of the recently deceased--but their purpose isn't what it would appear to be.
The philosophical underpinnings of the third act suggest a worldview that is standard for its genre yet executed with high professional polish. This is not just a commercial product; it is a piece of art that invites discussion long after the credits have finished rolling.
Final Verdict: Is it Worth Watching?
In summary, our editorial assessment of Distant Lights (1987) is overwhelmingly negative. With an audience rating of 4.7/10 and strong performance metrics in the Science Fiction, Horror categories, it stands as a highly recommended experience for genre enthusiasts.
Whether you choose to experience it for the stellar performances from Tomas Milian, William Berger, Giacomo Piperno or the visual majesty of its technical execution, Distant Lights is a significant contribution to the cinema of 1987. It represents the kind of filmmaking that movieMx is proud to champion—original, bold, and ultimately, deeply human.
Parents Guide & Age Rating
Distant Lights has not been officially rated yet. However, due to its genre classification (Science Fiction, Horror), viewers should expect frightening scenes, intense suspense.
Final Verdict
Analyzing the audience sentiment, IMDb rating of 4.7/10, and global collection metrics, Distant Lights stands as a challenging project for the creators. It remains an essential piece of the 1987 cinematic year.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Distant Lights movie hit or flop?
Distant Lights is considered a flop based on audience ratings of 4.7/10 and lower collections.
Is Distant Lights worth watching?
Based on the low rating of 4.7/10, Distant Lights may not be worth watching unless you are a die-hard fan.
Where can I watch Distant Lights online?
Distant Lights may be available for rent or purchase on digital platforms like Apple TV, Google Play, or Amazon Prime Video. Specific streaming availability can vary by country.
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Synopsis
Alien spirits from outer space land on earth and take over the bodies of the recently deceased--but their purpose isn't what it would appear to be.