Tom Cruise is gearing up for what could be another awards season run with his upcoming black comedy Digger, directed by Alejandro G. Iñárritu. But before that hits theaters in October 2026, fans can revisit one of his most iconic sci-fi collaborations: Steven Spielberg's War of the Worlds. The 2005 blockbuster is set to land on Starz starting June 1, 2026—a perfect way to get your Cruise fix while you wait.
Based on H.G. Wells' classic 1898 novel, War of the Worlds sees Cruise play a divorced father who must protect his children (Dakota Fanning and Justin Chatwin) when terrifying alien tripods emerge from the ground and begin annihilating humanity. Spielberg, fresh off Minority Report and Catch Me If You Can, brought his signature sense of wonder and dread to the story, creating a visceral, ground-level survival thriller that still holds up today.
Despite some criticism that the characters weren't as warm as typical Spielberg protagonists, audiences flocked to theaters. The film grossed over $600 million worldwide on a $132 million budget, making it one of the biggest hits of both Cruise and Spielberg's careers. Its blend of practical effects and early-2000s CGI remains impressive, and the infamous basement sequence with Tim Robbins is still a masterclass in tension.
This streaming debut comes 21 years after the film's original release, and it's a great chance for a new generation to discover—or for longtime fans to revisit—this thrilling alien invasion story. If you're looking for more high-octane action, check out our list of 10 Action Movies That Get Better Every Time You Watch Them for more recommendations.
Spielberg Returns to Sci-Fi in 2026
While you're catching up on War of the Worlds, keep an eye on Spielberg's latest project. The legendary director is back in the sci-fi genre with Disclosure Day, hitting theaters worldwide on June 12, 2026. The film stars Emily Blunt, Josh O'Connor, Colman Domingo, and more, and early trailers suggest it could be one of the year's best sci-fi offerings. It's Spielberg's first sci-fi feature since Ready Player One in 2018.
For those who prefer their sci-fi with a side of horror, don't miss our roundup of Top 6 Zombie Disaster Movies That Never Let You Catch Your Breath. And if you're planning a movie night, check out 3 Must-Watch Netflix Movies for Your Weekend Binge (May 29-31) for more streaming picks.
War of the Worlds begins streaming on Starz on June 1, 2026. Stay tuned to ShowtimeSpot for the latest on Cruise, Spielberg, and all your favorite stars.
