Buzz
Science fiction has long served as a reflection of societal norms and values, using futuristic technology and human interactions with it to raise questions. Beginning with books and later making its way into cinema, these 10 films are pivotal in how the genre evolved, influencing both the craft of filmmaking and storytelling.
10. Terminator 2: Judgment Day
Directed by James Cameron, released in 1991
The first film to feature a realistically crafted CGI (Computer Generated Imagery) character in a major motion picture. The technological breakthroughs made in ‘Terminator 2: Judgment Day’ significantly influenced the cinematic world, predicting the CGI advances (as well as animatronic innovations) seen in ‘Jurassic Park’ (1993), and paving the way for ‘The Matrix’ (1999) and ‘Avatar’ (2009). It was a cornerstone in the development of tools that filmmakers continue to employ today. This film also tackled the idea that the future isn't fixed and that we hold the power to reshape our own fates. Today, CGI remains the dominant visual effect technology in most science fiction films.
9. Frankenstein
Directed by James Whale, 1931
James Whale's ‘Frankenstein,’ inspired by Mary Shelley’s 1818 novel ‘Frankenstein; or, The Modern Prometheus,’ stands as the groundwork for nearly every science fiction film that followed. It opened doors for filmmakers to explore boundless creativity, often with chilling foresight, in reflecting on contemporary issues. The character of the mad scientist—specifically Dr. Victor Frankenstein, who defies natural boundaries to create life from body parts via electricity, only for his creation to turn against him—became a symbol of the dangers of technology outpacing humanity’s moral compass. This theme of technology running amok is a common thread in science fiction, seen later in films like ‘The Day the Earth Stood Still’ (1951), ‘War of the Worlds’ (1953), and ‘Jurassic Park’ (1993), all of which echo the societal anxieties surrounding technology’s unchecked power.
8. Twelve Monkeys
Directed by Terry Gilliam, 1995
“A story should have a beginning, a middle, and an end… but not necessarily in that order.” – Jean-Luc Godard. This philosophy is particularly true for films like ‘Memento’ (2005) and ‘Inception’ (2010), where the narrative structure defies convention. In ‘Twelve Monkeys,’ time travel and flashbacks serve as the main storytelling devices, offering a sharp break from Todorov’s Theory of Narrative. The film, like other works of science fiction, speaks directly to societal concerns. In the 1990s, public health crises like AIDS, the Ebola virus, and Mad Cow disease loomed large. ‘Twelve Monkeys’ examines these fears with a unique sophistication, setting itself apart from other films like ‘Outbreak’ (1997). The movie is famous for its shocking plot twist, keeping viewers on edge even after it ends. But what makes this film a key shift in the sci-fi genre? Terry Gilliam’s direction shows us the unsettling consequences of knowledge. James Cole’s rejection of truth and his embrace of ignorance contrasts with the audience’s growing understanding. As the film progresses, we see how society is equally confused and misinformed about global issues, wars, and daily life. ‘Twelve Monkeys’ is a cautionary tale about the dangers of knowing too much—or too little. Its exploration of the theme of knowledge as both a curse and a weapon paved the way for films like ‘The Matrix’ (1999), ‘Minority Report’ (2002), ‘I, Robot’ (2004), and ‘Surrogates’ (2009). The film’s ambiguous ending, one that leaves room for interpretation, has since become a hallmark of modern sci-fi, with ‘Inception’ (2010) being a standout example.
7. Star Wars Episode IV: A New Hope
Directed by George Lucas, 1977
Though many fans argue that ‘The Empire Strikes Back’ surpasses ‘A New Hope,’ the latter holds a unique place in film history. It not only introduced an entire universe but also birthed the ‘blockbuster’ film genre and began one of the most iconic sagas of all time. ‘Star Wars’ represents the pinnacle of the space opera genre, offering a dreamlike, escapist world for science fiction fans. While its technical effects may seem outdated today, they were groundbreaking at the time, making ‘Star Wars’ a true masterpiece of its era. It’s unfortunate that the film has been digitally altered over the years, as seen in the controversial changes made to ‘E.T.,’ where the term “terrorist” was replaced and guns swapped for walkie-talkies. The impact of ‘Star Wars’ is so profound that it even gave rise to a religion centered around the film and its sequels. As Rotten Tomatoes succinctly puts it: 'George Lucas opened our eyes to the possibilities of blockbuster filmmaking, and things have never been the same.'
6. Alien
Directed by Ridley Scott, 1979
‘Alien’ stands as one of the most acclaimed science fiction films, marking a sharp departure from the more traditional, child-friendly imagery of ‘Star Wars’ and ‘Star Trek.’ Rather than exploring distant galaxies in a distant past, ‘Alien’ brings us back to a grounded, terrifying vision of space. It taps into the real possibilities of space exploration, moving away from fantasy and back toward the science in science fiction. Rod Serling once said, “fantasy is the impossible made probable, science fiction is the probable made possible.” With ‘Alien,’ science fiction returns to its roots, presenting a plausible reality of space travel. The spaceship in ‘Alien’ is far more realistic than the Enterprise, and the film delves into the idea of extraterrestrial life during a time when UFO sightings were on the rise. It also helped pave the way for the science fiction-horror genre, which would go on to find great financial success.
5. E.T.
Directed by Steven Spielberg, 1982
Who could forget one of the most iconic and gut-wrenching lines in cinematic history: “E.T. phone home.” This line was ranked 15th on ‘AFI’s 100 Years… 100 movie quotes’ in 2005. Unlike any science fiction film before it, ‘E.T.’ presented aliens as kind and empathetic, with humans cast as the antagonists. This shift in perspective was particularly timely, as American morale was low following the Iraq War of 1990. In the following years, films like ‘Independence Day’ (1997) and ‘Armageddon’ (1998) showcased humanity triumphing over external threats. But in contrast, ‘E.T.’ offered a portrayal of an alien who, though different, was pure-hearted and simply yearning for home. The film also served as a commentary on how the media and film shape our perceptions. The children, Mary and Elliot, show compassion toward E.T., while the adults react with fear and hostility. Although films generally continue to depict aliens as the 'enemy,' works like ‘District 9’ (2010) stand out as rare exceptions.
4. Inception
Directed by Christopher Nolan, 2010
This could be the most contentious inclusion on this list, particularly given its high placement. Earlier, I discussed ‘Twelve Monkeys’ and its non-linear storytelling, but ‘Inception’ pushes this concept further, weaving multiple timelines and layers of dreams within dreams. Much like how ‘The Matrix’ defined the science fiction landscape in the 1990s, ‘Inception’ will shape the genre in the 2010s. The full extent of its impact may not yet be clear, but the film left an indelible mark in 2010. It perplexed and frustrated some, while challenging others to think beyond mere action. ‘Inception’ doesn’t talk down to the audience; it assumes intelligence. In an age where films often spoon-feed viewers, ‘Inception’ invites us to engage with its complexity. As with ‘The Matrix,’ it blurs the line between reality and dream, opening up a world of endless possibilities. The beauty of the film lies in the way each viewer interprets its meaning. A seemingly trivial detail, such as a spinning top, holds the key to the film's deeper narrative. ‘Inception’ is bold and original, promising more intricate stories in the future. Unlike many films driven by technology and visual effects, ‘Inception’s’ understated special effects are grounded in realism. The science and jargon serve as a thin layer beneath a rich narrative, where ideas take precedence over flashy action sequences. It’s a film that has etched itself into our collective consciousness, changing the way we perceive our lives and identities.
3. 2001: A Space Odyssey
Directed by Stanley Kubrick, 1968
Although many ‘best science fiction films’ lists rank ‘2001’ second to ‘Blade Runner,’ Stanley Kubrick's ‘2001’ revolutionized the science fiction genre, especially during a period when the genre was seen as almost obsolete. The 1960s had witnessed a decline in the genre, with a slew of low-budget films from the previous decade, such as ‘King Kong vs. Godzilla’ and ‘Ghidrah: The Three-headed Monster.’ These films contributed to the perception that science fiction was shallow and outlandish. However, ‘2001’ dispelled that notion, even though its complex and enigmatic storyline meant it wasn't immediately embraced. While it didn’t introduce entirely new concepts—technology’s domination and the unknown potential of progress—it presented them in a more serious and grounded manner. The space race between the US and USSR was at its peak, and there was fertile ground for exploring the future of space exploration. ‘2001’ offered a visionary glimpse into the possibilities of space technology, such as hibernation pods, liquid meals, and video calls from space. Yet, it also reflected society’s growing unease with technology, embodied in the malfunction and rebellion of HAL 9000. The film’s groundbreaking opening sequence, realistic backdrops, and strategic use of sound (or lack thereof, as there is no sound in space) elevated a struggling genre to new heights. Technically brilliant (notably with the iconic ‘match cut’), innovative, and captivating in its execution, ‘2001’ remains a masterpiece—unforgettable, aurally rich, and undeniably deserving of its place at the top.
2. Blade Runner
Directed by Ridley Scott, 1982
'Blade Runner' consistently ranks among the top 10 science fiction films, which firmly establishes its profound impact on the genre and on filmmakers.
Unlike many other science fiction films, 'Blade Runner' doesn't aim to create a visually pleasing or comfortable experience. The film is deliberately slow and not particularly visually appealing. However, its intellectual depth and realistic portrayal of the future more than compensate for these stylistic choices, making it a must-see for science fiction enthusiasts. When it was first released, 'Blade Runner' wasn’t considered one of the most realistic films, and even by today's standards, it still isn't. Yet, the hyper-oriental, skyscraper-laden landscape of dystopian Los Angeles in 2019 seemed eerily plausible just a few years ago. Ridley Scott's meticulous attention to detail is extraordinary. Each viewing of the film offers something new, whether it's noticing subtle visual details or uncovering an underlying theme that was previously unnoticed. The film is rich with layers that explore the essence of humanity—what separates us from replicants, clones, and robots. At the center of the story is Tyrell Corporation, a multinational company with the motto 'more human than human,' which allows humans to play God. The film touches on familiar science fiction themes—ethics, humanity, and technology—but takes them to a more profound level. As cloning technology progresses, films like 'Gattaca' (1995), which argues that 'there is no gene for the human spirit,' serve as a reminder to keep technology in check. 'Blade Runner' is the kind of film that gets special edition releases, with multiple versions and in-depth commentary.
1. The Matrix
Directed by Andy Wachowski and Lana (Larry) Wachowski, 1999
'The Matrix' was a groundbreaking science fiction film in 1999, where the creators introduced innovative camera techniques like 'flo-mo' and 'bullet time.' These techniques not only shaped a new visual language for action scenes but also raised the bar for realism, while simultaneously marking the return of visually extravagant CGI-driven blockbusters. Many imitators have since tried to replicate the slow-motion bullet time effect, but with little success—take 'Wanted' (2008), for instance.
'The Matrix' posed the profound philosophical question: 'What is reality?' Is the world we experience real, or is it an illusion? More importantly, what is the true meaning of reality? This question continues to captivate minds to this day, which is why it deserves its spot at number 3. The film introduces us to the choice between blissful ignorance (the 'blue pill') and the painful truth (the 'red pill'). We are abruptly removed from comfort and thrust into a dystopian, decaying world. The very nature of reality was challenged, leaving audiences to question the world around them—was it real, or just a figment of our imagination? Even after leaving the theater, many viewers pondered, 'Is the world truly real, or merely an illusion?'
'The Matrix' revitalized the science fiction genre, delivering a high-quality, five-star cinematic experience. It not only maintained the loyalty of existing fans but also attracted a whole new generation of followers.
+ Avatar
Directed by James Cameron, 2009
In 2008, only 8 films were released in 3D, but by 2009, that number surged to 20. 3D technology has transformed the viewing experience, though it has also sparked headaches for some and divided opinions among filmmakers and critics. 3D has contributed to increased box office earnings, even in the face of rampant illegal file-sharing, with over 100 million BitTorrent users by February 2010. While U.S. ticket sales have dropped, overall box office revenue has risen. 3D films generated 11% of the total box office in 2009, despite making up only 4% of all releases. Had 'Avatar' not become the highest-grossing film of all time, we might have seen fewer 3D movies like those that flopped before it. So, what makes 'Avatar' stand out? Is it its formulaic plot, extensive motion capture and lifelike CGI, or its adherence to mainstream Hollywood norms? 'Avatar' demonstrates how technological advancements can elevate the cinematic experience, using 3D to enhance the storytelling rather than relying on it as a gimmick. Although it’s an undeniable visual masterpiece, I hesitate to include it on the list based on this alone. While the future of 3D looks promising, James Cameron’s 'Avatar' has undeniably changed the way science fiction films are made, influencing directors’ camera techniques to better suit the 3D medium. American film critic Roger Ebert, in his cover story for Newsweek (May 2010), criticizes 3D, arguing that '[3D] adds nothing essential to the movie-going experience. For some, it is an annoying distraction.' He also points out that it 'limits the freedom of directors to make films as they choose,' as studios prioritize audience demand and profit over creative freedom.
