What Are Some Sci Fi Movies?
Science fiction is a genre which has captivated audiences across the world for decades, boasting some of the most iconic and memorable films to date. From time travel and aliens to android lifeforms and post-apocalyptic wastelands, the sci fi film genre has it all. So, what are some of the most well-known and beloved sci fi movies?
Alien & Aliens
No sci fi movie list would be complete without mentioning Ridley Scott’s original Alien, or James Cameron’s 1986 sequel Aliens. Both films focus on a group of people coming across different species of extra-terrestrial hostile aliens, which aim to kill and eat their human prey. The claustrophobic atmospheres of the first two movies in the Alien franchise, combined with disturbingly realistic special effects and violent action scenes, created a truly unforgettable cinematic experience.
The Terminator Franchise
James Cameron isn’t a one-hit wonder when it comes to sci fi movies, having also directed the original 1984 Terminator installment. As with Aliens, Cameron hasn’t been involved with the subsequent sequels, but his initial effort continues to be remembered by viewers today. Following the exploits of Kyle Reese, Sarah Connor and the eponymous cyborg assassin, The Terminator helped introduce some of the most iconic action movie characters of the last 40 years.
Back To The Future
Perhaps one of the most beloved time travel movies ever made is 1985’s Back To The Future. Following the hapless Marty McFly and his bumbling inventor companion Doc Brown, the film took audiences on a journey through time that remains a classic to this day. The incredible special effects, comedy and heart of the movie have been much imitated, but yet to be matched.
Blade Runner
Ridley Scott’s Blade Runner, released in 1982, is widely regarded as one of the greatest sci fi movies of all time. Featuring Harrison Ford as Rick Deckard, a policeman tasked with eliminating bio-engineered humanoids known as replicants, the movie is set in a 2019 Los Angeles that has been transformed beyond all recognition by advanced technology. With its themes of morality, mortality and artificial intelligence, Blade Runner continues to hold audiences enthralled to this day.
The Matrix
Another science fiction classic that has captivated viewers for decades is The Matrix, released in 1999. Starring Keanu Reeves as Neo, the movie follows his journey as he discovers that the world, including his own body, is just a construct from a computer simulation. Enjoying incredible critical acclaim, The Matrix went on to gross over $460 million at the worldwide box office.
Avatar
Fifteen years after The Matrix, James Cameron returned to the sci fi movie genre with Avatar. Boasting a staggering $2.2 billion gross at the box office, Avatar went on to become the highest-grossing movie ever made. Following Jake, a former Marine who comes to inhabit a colonised alien planet, Avatar combines stunning visuals and state-of-the-art special effects with a meaningful, thought-provoking story.
Eternal Sunshine Of The Spotless Mind
2004’s Eternal Sunshine Of The Spotless Mind is a wonderfully thought-provoking and emotionally powerful film by director Michel Gondry. Starring Jim Carrey and Kate Winslet as a couple who try and erase all memory of their relationship, the movie deals with the complexities of relationships in a way that resonated with many viewers.
Interstellar
Directed by Christopher Nolan in 2014, Interstellar follows the crew of a spaceship as they embark on a mission to find a new home for humans in another part of the universe. Featuring Matthew McConaughey and Anne Hathaway, the movie also explores the idea of time travel, and how the relativity of time can influence people’s lives.
District 9
Arguably the most underrated movie on this list is Neill Blomkamp’s District 9, released in 2009. Featuring anthropomorphic aliens stuck on Earth, the movie uses sci fi elements to explore themes of xenophobia, racism and segregation. District 9’s enjoyable action and gripping story are often overlooked, but for fans of sci fi movies it is definitely worth a watch.
Ex Machina
Released in 2015, Ex Machina delves into the concept of artificial intelligence, following a programmer as he works with a humanoid robot. Having achieved critical and commercial success, Ex Machina tackled complex philosophical questions related to the growing capabilities of AI, as well as top-notch direction and an intriguing story.
Iron Man & The Avengers
It would be remiss to overlook Marvel’s contribution to the sci fi movie genre, having created a huge cinematic world packed with superheroes and intergalactic villains. From Iron Man and The Avengers to Guardians Of The Galaxy, the team at Marvel Studios have created some of the most beloved science fiction movies of the last 10 years, with no sign of slowing down anytime soon.
Conclusion
This list of some of the most beloved sci fi movies of all time is by no means exhaustive. From classic films like Alien and The Terminator to modern blockbusters such as Avatar and The Avengers, viewers across the world have enjoyed a huge variety of science fiction films over the years. Whether you are a die-hard fan of science fiction or just looking to explore the genre, there is something for everyone.
