Interstellar: 20 Easter Eggs & References You Need To See

17. Other Specific Influences

As ever, Nolan has openly announced his influences, admitting that 2001, Star Wars Episode IV, Close Encounters, Alien and Blade Runner all played a part. Some references are overt, as already discussed, while others are merely tonal or spiritual. In less intergalactic terms, Nolan also cites The Treasure Of The Sierra Madre, and The Mirror as influences. Nolan also apparently screened classic space movie The Right Stuff for the crew before shooting started, to help them understand their roles in the film. Clearly that film's mantra that "It takes a special kind of man to volunteer for a suicide mission, especially when it's on national TV" fits with Cooper's own sacrifice (even if he holds stead-fast to the hope of his return initially).