Science fiction movies have long captivated audiences with their exciting storylines and amazing special effects. From the pioneering work of George Méliès 108 years ago to the high-tech blockbusters of today, sci-fi movies have continued to surprise and entertain fans all over the world. The coming months bring a host of new and highly anticipated sci-fi movies promising to take viewers on incredible journeys through time and space.
Blade Runner 2049
The eagerly awaited sequel to the 1982 Blade Runner is set to arrive in theatres in October 2017 and will be directed by Denis Villeneuve of Arrival fame. Starring Ryan Gosling, Harrison Ford and Jared Leto, the film continues the story of Rick Deckard as he seeks to uncover a dark and shocking secret. Loosely based on the novel “Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep?” and with a screenplay by Hampton Fancher, Blade Runner 2049 is a must-watch for any fan of the original movie.
Star Wars Episode VIII
Slated for a December 2017 release, Star Wars Episode VIII is the continuation of the space opera saga and the follow-up to 2015’s The Force Awakens. Written and directed by Rian Johnson, this movie promises to take audiences on a thrilling journey as Luke Skywalker and Rey take the next step in their adventures. With Mark Hamill, Adam Driver, Carrie Fisher, Daisy Ridley and John Boyega in the star-studded cast, fans cannot wait to see this eagerly awaited new movie.
Valerian and the City of a Thousand Planets
Valerian and the City of a Thousand Planets is the latest epic sci-fi adventure from director Luc Besson and is based on the comic book series “Valérian and Laureline”. With Dane DeHaan and Cara Delevingne taking on the roles of Valerian and Laureline, respectively, the movie follows the two intrepid space-time agents as they visit alien worlds and explore the incredible Alpha Space Station. Expect this movie to be jammed packed with special effects and plenty of action when it’s released in July 2017.
Ghost in the Shell
Based on the classic Manga series, “Ghost in the Shell” tells the story of Major Motoko Kusanagi and her quest for answers about her artificially enhanced mind. Backed by an all-star cast, which includes Scarlet Johansson, Juliette Binoche and Takeshi Kitano, this movie promises to dazzle viewers with all sorts of science-fiction style, special effects. This movie is set to hit theatres in March 2017.
Alien: Covenant
The prequel to the 1979 classic “Alien”, Covenant follows the crew of the colony ship Covenant as they search for a new home on an uncharted world. Directed by Ridley Scott and starring Michael Fassbender and Katherine Waterston, the movie is set to arrive in cinemas in May 2017 and is sure to be stuffed with all sorts of monsters, aliens and unexpected twists.
The Dark Tower
Based on the magnum opus between the works of Stephen King, “The Dark Tower” is the tale of gunslinger Roland Deschain’s heroic efforts to protect the mysterious Dark Tower from destruction. Starring Idris Elba and Matthew McConaughey, the movie is set to arrive in theatres in October 2017 and should make for an amazing journey through the dark and dangerous landscape of Mid-World.
Okja
The latest action-adventure movie from acclaimed director Bong Joon-Ho and starring Tilda Swinton and Jake Gyllenhaal, Okja tells the story of a young girl’s fight to protect her giant super-pig from the machinations of a powerful corporation. With some stunning visual effects and a touching story, Okja is an exciting addition to the science-fiction genre and will be released in June 2017.
Thor: Ragnarok
Directed by Taika Waititi, this upcoming movie from the Marvel Cinematic Universe is set to arrive in theatres in November 2017. The movie follows Thor as he team up with The Hulk and Doctor Strange to fight against the goddess of death, Hela, and will feature an all-star cast, including Chris Hemsworth, Tom Hiddleston and Cate Blanchett. With its mix of adventure and humor, Thor: Ragnarok will no doubt be one of the most anticipated movies of 2017.
Uprising
Coming soon in 2017 is the blockbuster sci-fi movie “Uprising”. Directed by John Laing and starring an all-star line-up, the movie follows a group of rebels as they fight to save their home world from a sinister alien race. This movie features stunning special effects, dazzling fight sequences and plenty of suspense, making it a must-watch for everyone!
Themes
From science-fiction blockbusters to small indie treats, sci-fi movies explore a variety of different themes, ranging from the search for identity, to the struggle between man and machine, to the fate of the human race. From Blade Runner 2049’s exploration of the consequences of artificial intelligence to the cosmic horrors of Alien: Covenant, these new sci-fi movies will undoubtedly push the boundaries and provide viewers with a host of thought-provoking questions and answers.
Technology
From CGI creatures and advanced robotics to prosthetics and virtual reality, the technology used in sci-fi movies can be as stunning as the stories they tell. It’s no wonder then that these films often develop a cult following as fans marvel at the power of modern technology. From the bold use of 3D in Blade Runner 2049 to the motion-capture performances of Star Wars Episode VIII, these new sci-fi movies are sure to capture the imagination of viewers with their cutting-edge visuals.
Special Effects
Backed by giant budgets and the most talented special effects technicians in the business, today’s sci-fi movies often include some of the most enduring images. From the giant robots of Pacific Rim to the inter-galactic battles of Star Wars Episode VIII, these movies are guaranteed to bring plenty of jaw-dropping moments. Special effects are an integral part of sci-fi films, and fans can expect the latest offerings to provide some truly memorable visuals.
Criticism
In recent years, sci-fi films have come under increasing criticism for their lack of representation of minorities, their reliance on outdated tropes, and their inability to tell stories away from the white, male gaze. With an increasing number of diverse voices in the industry and an ever-expanding range of stories to tell, we can expect these new sci-fi movies to provide a more inclusive and thought-provoking look at the genre than we’ve seen before.
