George Clooney directed and starred in a $100 million sci-fi movie you may have missed

George Clooney has directed and starred in a $100 million sci-fi movie that has largely faded from the spotlight despite its impressive cast and ambitious production.

The film in question is The Midnight Sky, Clooney's 2020 post-apocalyptic drama, which he directed and starred in for Netflix. The movie follows Augustine, a scientist living at an Arctic research station who attempts to warn a returning spacecraft about a mysterious global catastrophe.

Clooney stars alongside Felicity Jones, David Oyelowo, Tiffany Boone, Demián Bichir and Kyle Chandler. The film was adapted from Lily Brooks-Dalton's novel Good Morning, Midnight.

Released during the COVID-19 pandemic, The Midnight Sky had a limited theatrical run before arriving on Netflix. Its release timing may have contributed to the movie receiving less attention than a major theatrical sci-fi blockbuster, despite its reported $100 million budget.

The film marked another entry in Clooney's career as both an actor and director. He has directed nine feature films, including Confessions of a Dangerous Mind, Good Night, and Good Luck, The Ides of March, The Monuments Men and The Tender Bar.

The Midnight Sky also showcased Clooney's interest in working behind the camera while continuing to take leading roles. The actor has increasingly divided his career between acting, directing and producing, with his work earning numerous major awards and nominations over the years.

Clooney is now set to receive the Golden Lion for Lifetime Achievement at the 2026 Venice International Film Festival, recognising his career as an actor, director and producer.