It’s been close to 17 years since one of the most essential sci-fi films debuted on large screens, and now, it’s making a major comeback thanks to streaming. Directed by Neill Blomkamp, who wrote the screenplay with Terri Tatchell, District 9 premiered on July 23, 2009, at San Diego Comic-Con and was released in U.S. theaters on August 14 that year, to critical and commercial success. The sci-fi favorite has since been added to several streamers, including Hulu in 2025; however, its move to its new home is significant, as it’s part of the massive New Year’s Day content drop.
With that, District 9 is now available to stream on Netflix. As one of the best sci-fi movies of all time, the action film, produced by Peter Jackson and Carolynne Cunningham, features an immersive plot that communicates the essence of antiracism, forbearance, and unity. Starring Sharlto Copley, Jason Cope, and David James, the action film tells the story of aliens who arrived on Earth three decades ago, not to conquer or give aid, but to find refuge from their dying planet, according to the official logline.
The film’s synopsis continues: “Separated from humans in a South African area called District 9, the aliens are managed by Multi-National United, which is unconcerned with the aliens’ welfare but will do anything to master their advanced technology. When a company field agent (Copley) contracts a mysterious virus that begins to alter his DNA, there is only one place he can hide: District 9.”
‘District 9’ Makes a Long-Awaited Streaming Comeback
District 9 was inspired by Blomkamp’s 2006 short film Alive in Joburg and has been described as “a thoroughly entertaining science-fiction classic” by critics on Rotten Tomatoes, where it holds a Certified Fresh 90% rating based on 309 reviews. The audience score, on the other hand, is slightly lower, at 82%, with reviews praising the film’s distinctiveness. On top of that, District 9 earned over $210 million against its $30 million budget, making it a box office hit.
Fans of District 9 can now revisit the gem on Netflix. Stay tuned to Collider for more streaming news.
Release Date
August 5, 2009
Runtime
112 minutes
Jason Cope
Christopher Johnson / Grey Bradnam / Trent