Movies that capture the magic of solar eclipses

APRIL 8 was a big day for some lucky folks because they had a total solar eclipse in town! And when I say “in town”, I mean certain communities in the US were rolling out the red carpet for this cosmic show-stopper.

They were expecting millions of eclipse enthusiasts to flood in, ready to boost the local economy.

The eclipse sadly couldn’t be seen from South Africa (the next visible eclipse here will be a partial lunar eclipse on September 18). However, just because you didn’t have a front-row seat to the celestial spectacle doesn’t mean you can’t join in the excitement.

So, let’s dive into a selection of movies that feature the beauty and mystique of the solar eclipse.

Ladyhawke (1985)

Set in a medieval fantasy world, this tells the tale of a cursed couple, Navarre and Isabeau, who are doomed to never be together. However, during a rare solar eclipse, the curse is temporarily lifted, allowing them a brief moment of reunion and hope.

The Little Vampire (2000)

In this charming family film, a young boy befriends a vampire and goes on a magical adventure to help him reclaim his lost humanity. Along the way, they encounter a solar eclipse, which plays a vital role in their quest for redemption and friendship.

Apocalypto (2006)

Director Mel Gibson’s epic adventure takes viewers on a gripping journey through the ancient Mayan civilisation. A pivotal scene unfolds during a dramatic solar eclipse, adding an extra layer of tension and symbolism.

The Eclipse (2009)

This offers a haunting tale of supernatural encounters during a literary festival in Ireland. As darkness descends during a solar eclipse, the lines between reality and the paranormal blur, leaving audiences on the edge of their seats.

Twilight: Eclipse (2010)

Twilight fans will remember the third instalment, Eclipse, which features a mesmerising scene where Bella Swan and Edward Cullen share a romantic moment during a solar eclipse.

The Cosmic Egg (2015)

Directed by Sven Harding, this is a South African sci-fi adventure that explores themes of mythology, spirituality, and environmentalism. It follows a group of young adventurers on a quest to stop an evil corporation from exploiting a sacred site known as the Cosmic Egg. Along their journey, they encounter celestial phenomena, including a solar eclipse, which plays a significant role in the story’s climax.

The Darkest Minds (2018)

In a dystopian future where a pandemic kills most of America’s children and leaves the survivors with special abilities, a group of teens with powers seek refuge from the government.

During their journey, they encounter a solar eclipse, which serves as a moment of reflection and solidarity.

Dune 1 and 2 (2021 and 2024)

This is a science fiction epic set in a distant future where humanity has spread across the galaxy. It follows the young nobleman Paul Atreides, whose family is tasked with governing the desert planet Arrakis, the only source of a valuable spice called melange.

Directed by Denis Villeneuve and based on the novel by Frank Herbert, Dune features stunning visuals, including an eclipse, and a stellar cast, including Timothée Chalamet, Rebecca Ferguson and Zendaya. It explores power, religion and destiny.