Explorers
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.
Ratings
Based on audience scoresWhere to stream Explorers
Streaming now in the United States on fuboTV, MGM Plus, Philo, Kanopy, and YouTube Free.
Rent or buy in the United States on Amazon Video, Apple TV Store, Google Play Movies, YouTube, and Fandango At Home.
Trailers and promos
4K UHD & Blu-ray Promo Trailer
Explorers original theatrical trailer (1985) [FTD-0145]
Explorers (1985) - HD Trailer
Ethan Hawke & River Phoenix Discover a Space Alien Bubble!
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Frequently asked questions about Explorers
Where can I watch Explorers in the United States?
Explorers is available to stream on fuboTV, MGM Plus, Philo, Kanopy, and YouTube Free in the United States, and to rent or buy on Amazon Video, Apple TV Store, Google Play Movies, YouTube, and Fandango At Home. Streaming availability is provided by JustWatch and can change over time.
Can I watch Explorers for free?
Explorers streams free with ads in the United States on Kanopy and YouTube Free. A subscription is not required, though the service may ask you to register.
What are the ratings for Explorers?
Explorers scores 6.3 on The Movie Database, 6.4 on IMDb, 66% on Rotten Tomatoes, and 60 on Metacritic.
Who stars in Explorers?
Explorers stars Ethan Hawke, River Phoenix, Jason Presson, Amanda Peterson, and Bobby Fite. Joe Dante is the director.
How long is Explorers?
Explorers runs 1h 49m (109 minutes).
When did Explorers come out?
Explorers was released on July 12, 1985.
Which studio made Explorers?
Explorers was produced by Paramount Pictures in the United States.
What was the budget for Explorers?
Explorers was made on a budget of $25,000,000.
How much did Explorers make at the box office?
Explorers grossed $9,900,000 worldwide, against a budget of $25,000,000.
What languages is Explorers in?
Explorers is in German and English, and its original language is English.
Ratings and streaming availability are aggregated from third-party sources; metadata from The Movie Database (TMDB), streaming data from JustWatch. This product uses the TMDB API but is not endorsed or certified by TMDB. Streaming availability checked September 2026.