Matt Damon is having a monumental 2026. From headlining Netflix's crime thriller The Rip alongside Ben Affleck to starring in Christopher Nolan's epic The Odyssey, which has grossed over $1.5 billion worldwide, Damon is everywhere. But while his new projects dominate headlines, one of his older films is quietly proving its staying power in the streaming world.
Ridley Scott's The Martian, released in 2015, has now spent more than 100 days in the top 10 on Apple TV's VOD charts. That's a remarkable feat for a film that's over a decade old, and it speaks to the movie's enduring appeal. Based on Andy Weir's novel, the sci-fi thriller follows astronaut Mark Watney, who is left for dead on Mars after a storm forces his crew to evacuate. With limited supplies and no way to communicate with Earth, Watney must use his ingenuity to survive—and eventually, to find a way home.
The film boasts an all-star cast including Jessica Chastain, Kristen Wiig, Jeff Daniels, Michael Peña, Sean Bean, Sebastian Stan, and Chiwetel Ejiofor. It earned seven Oscar nominations and grossed over $630 million worldwide, making it a critical and commercial success. On Rotten Tomatoes, it holds a 91% approval from both critics and audiences—a rare feat for any movie.
Part of the film's lasting appeal is its blend of science and human spirit. Watney's resourcefulness and humor in the face of isolation resonate with viewers, especially in an era where space exploration is back in the spotlight. The Martian also benefits from Scott's masterful direction, which balances tension with moments of levity.
Interestingly, Weir's follow-up novel, Project Hail Mary, was adapted into a 2026 box office hit, which may have reignited interest in his earlier work. But The Martian stands on its own as a modern classic.
For those who haven't seen it, The Martian is available on VOD platforms like Apple TV. If you're in the mood for more gripping sci-fi, check out our list of underwater sci-fi thrillers or Patrick Stewart's overlooked sci-fi gem. And for more of Damon's recent work, The Rip is streaming on Netflix, while The Odyssey continues its theatrical run.
With Damon's star power showing no signs of fading, it's no surprise that audiences keep coming back to The Martian. Whether you're a longtime fan or a newcomer, it's a must-watch for any sci-fi enthusiast.
