Where can I watch Explorers (1985)?

In US, Explorers is available to rent or buy from Amazon Video, Apple TV Store and Google Play Movies. Availability varies by country — check our where-to-watch page for every region.

Is Explorers worth watching?

Explorers holds an audience score of 6.2 out of 10, and is a strong pick if you enjoy fantasy, family and science fiction. Reactions are mixed, so it may depend on taste.

Who stars in Explorers?

Explorers stars Ethan Hawke, River Phoenix, Jason Presson, Amanda Peterson and Bobby Fite.

When was Explorers released?

Explorers was released in 1985, with a runtime of about 109 minutes.

FeatureFantasy Family Science Fiction

Explorers (1985): cast, story & where to watch

1985 · Film · ★ 6.2

Released in 1985, Explorers is a fantasy, family and science fiction film directed by Joe Dante, running about 109 minutes. “The adventure begins in your own back yard.” — that tagline sets the tone.

What it’s about. Middle schooler Ben spends his free time watching sci-fi films, playing video games and reading comic books. Surprisingly, his affinity for all things fantastical yields a real result – when he has a vivid dream about technology, his prodigy best friend Wolfgang manages to create a working spacecraft. Joined by their buddy Darren, the boys take off into outer space and encounter some very odd extraterrestrial life.

Who’s in it. Explorers stars Ethan Hawke as Ben Crandall, River Phoenix as Wolfgang Müller, Jason Presson as Darren Woods and Amanda Peterson as Lori Swenson, among others.

How it landed. With an audience score of 6.2/10, Explorers has drawn a solid, mixed-to-positive response. It went on to earn $9.9M at the box office.

Where to watch. In US you can rent or buy it from Amazon Video, Apple TV Store, Google Play Movies and YouTube. See the full, country-by-country breakdown on our where to watch Explorers page.

If you liked it. Fans of Explorers tend to enjoy The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King, The Green Mile, Spirited Away and The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring.

Full details Where to watch →On Amazon ↗

Frequently asked

Where can I watch Explorers (1985)?: In US, Explorers is available to rent or buy from Amazon Video, Apple TV Store and Google Play Movies. Availability varies by country — check our where-to-watch page for every region.
Is Explorers worth watching?: Explorers holds an audience score of 6.2 out of 10, and is a strong pick if you enjoy fantasy, family and science fiction. Reactions are mixed, so it may depend on taste.
Who stars in Explorers?: Explorers stars Ethan Hawke, River Phoenix, Jason Presson, Amanda Peterson and Bobby Fite.
When was Explorers released?: Explorers was released in 1985, with a runtime of about 109 minutes.