2024 Sci-Fi Box-Office Flop Gets a Second Chance on Netflix

Following a financial flop during its theatrical run, the science fiction film I.S.S. will be landing on Netflix this summer

Per its official logline, the 2023 film follows a team of astronauts, while "Tensions flare in the near future aboard the International Space Station (I.S.S.) as a worldwide conflict breaks out on Earth. Reeling, the US and Russian astronauts aboard each receive orders from the ground: take control of the station by any means necessary."

Directed by Gabriela Cowperthwaite, the filmmaker behind the harrowing animal documentary and Netflix smash Blackfish (2013), I.S.S. is led by Academy Award-winning actress Ariana DeBose (West Side Story, Wish), Chris Messina (The Mindy Project, Argo), and John Gallagher Jr. (Spring Awakening, Short Term 12). Masha Mashkova (Lady in the Lake, McMafia), Costa Ronin (Homeland, The Americans), and Pilou Asbæk (Game of Thrones, 'Salems Lot) also feature in the sci-fi in supporting roles.

I.S.S. premiered at the 2023 Tribeca Film Festival, receiving mainly positive reviews from critics, sitting at a "Fresh" rating of 61% on Rotten Tomatoes. During its limited theatrical run, the indie film grossed $6.6 million against a $13.8 million budget. Critics and audiences praised its stellar visuals and lead performances, but much of its storytelling was met with more polarizing responses.

According to data from What's on Netflix, I.S.S. will join Netflix U.S. on July 8, as part of its ongoing summer film roster. The film is one of many licensed films on the platform joining the streamer between June and July, as part of a content re-shuffle, where many feature films and shows are removed and replaced with new titles. Previously, I.S.S. was available on Paramount+ with Showtime, and will be joining the new streaming giant after two years on the platform.

This story was originally published by Men's Journal on Jun 15, 2026, where it first appeared in the News section. Add Men's Journal as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

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This story was originally published June 15, 2026 at 6:12 PM.