Stargate (1994)

Kernel Score: 79% · 3,716 ratings · Rated PG-13

Genres: Action, Adventure, Science Fiction

Released: 1994-10-28

Runtime: 121 minutes

Is Stargate worth watching?

Worth watching. Archaeologists open a portal to a desert planet ruled by a god-king. It's a fun, big-hearted 90s sci-fi adventure with a few clunky bits, and it spawned a long franchise.

Watch it if you

  • like 90s sci-fi adventures
  • enjoy ancient-Egypt-meets-space ideas
  • want a straightforward popcorn film

Skip it if you

  • want sophisticated sci-fi
  • dislike dated effects

Best for: Easy sci-fi night

Fresh Kernels verdict, AI-assisted from our scores, audience reviews and the official rating.

Where to watch Stargate

  • Free with ads: Fawesome, The Roku Channel, YouTube Free
  • Rent: Prime Video, Apple TV, Google Play, YouTube
  • Buy: Prime Video, Apple TV, Google Play, YouTube

US availability, updated 2026-10-23.

Overview

An interstellar teleportation device, found in Egypt, leads to a planet with humans resembling ancient Egyptians who worship the god Ra.

Stargate parents' guide: ages 11+

Parents need to know that Stargate is a PG-13 sci-fi adventure involving an interstellar portal, an uprising against a god-like alien ruler, and nuclear weapon threats.

  • Violence & scariness: Moderate — Involves an uprising, weaponry, and nuclear-weapon stakes typical of a PG-13 sci-fi action adventure.

Fresh Kernels AI-assessed from the official PG-13 rating, publicly documented content. A guide for families, not an official rating.

Movies like Stargate

If you liked Stargate, these are the movies we'd watch next.

  • The Mummy (1999) — 76%: Light adventure with ancient Egypt and daring heroes.
  • Independence Day (1996) — 80%: Big, loud 90s spectacle from the same director.
  • Star Trek (2009) — 83%: Rousing sci-fi adventure with a likeable crew.
  • Serenity (2005) — 84%: Space adventure with a strong ensemble and humour.
  • Rogue One: A Star Wars Story (2016) — 87%: A rebel mission with a determined team.
  • The Empire Strikes Back (1980) — 96%: The sci-fi adventure that set the template.

Director

Roland Emmerich

Cast

  • James Spader as Dr. Daniel Jackson
  • Kurt Russell as Colonel Jonathan 'Jack' O'Neil
  • Jaye Davidson as Ra
  • Viveca Lindfors as Catherine
  • Alexis Cruz as Skaara
  • Mili Avital as Sha'uri
  • Erick Avari as Kasuf
  • John Diehl as Lieutenant Kawalsky
  • Djimon Hounsou as Horus
  • Carlos Lauchu as Anubis

Stargate FAQ

Is Stargate worth watching?

Worth watching. Archaeologists open a portal to a desert planet ruled by a god-king. It's a fun, big-hearted 90s sci-fi adventure with a few clunky bits, and it spawned a long franchise.

Where can I watch Stargate?

In the US you can watch it free with ads on Fawesome, The Roku Channel and YouTube Free and rent it from Prime Video, Apple TV, Google Play and YouTube.

Is Stargate OK for kids?

Stargate is rated PG-13. Fresh Kernels suggests ages 11+. Parents need to know that Stargate is a PG-13 sci-fi adventure involving an interstellar portal, an uprising against a god-like alien ruler, and nuclear weapon threats.

What movies are like Stargate?

If you liked Stargate, try The Mummy, Independence Day, Star Trek and Serenity.