Remember that time when liking science fiction made you a loser? We’re not sure when it became cool to be a geek, but we’re not complaining about it. Finally, people are understanding that sci-fi films are epic and there’s nothing wrong with declaring your love for time travel and aliens. If you’re still new to being a geek and aren’t sure what films to get started on, these are some sci-fi classics that you absolutely cannot miss.
Back to the Future
Most people have probably wondered what it would be like to travel in time. Whether it’s to the past or future, the possibilities available to you would be endless. However, 1985 flick “Back to the Future” showed just how dangerous this could be. After Marty McFly nearly stops himself from being born, he has to come up with a plan to ensure his parents fall in love before returning to the present. The film has a great blend of genres that put sci-fi at the forefront, and it reminds you there’s more to science fiction movies than laser fights in space.
Alien
Fancy a bit of horror with your science fiction? James Cameron’s “Alien” is one of the most iconic sci-fi films in the world, and it will undoubtedly leave an impression on you for better or worse. The level of violence and gore can be a little overwhelming at times, but that’s easy to overlook when the movie has you on the edge of your seat. What’s more, it provides a perfect example of an action heroine done well in the form of lead character Ellen Ripley. You can’t miss out on this one.
Jurassic Park
Who doesn’t love a good dinosaur chase? Released in the early ‘90s, “Jurassic Park” showed us why it’s a good thing that dinosaurs aren’t around anymore. Between the stirring musical score, life-like monsters and Spielberg’s eye for detail, there was no doubt that this movie would become an icon of the genre. It has the thrill that every sci-fi needs, with a storyline that’s not entirely rooted in fantasy. There’s every chance it could happen, right?
Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Back
It’s the franchise that will never end if Disney gets their way. Since first hitting cinema screens back in 1977, “Star Wars” has continued to dominate the sci-fi genre as one of the biggest film series around. It’s never failed to spawn a successful movie, although it’s 1980’s “The Empire Strikes Back” that goes down as being the best of the bunch. It’s thought-provoking and emotional, dark and enticing, with plenty of amazing action scenes to keep viewers entertained throughout.
Avatar
One of the most successful films ever made, “Avatar” doesn’t mess around when it comes to visual effects. Its imagery was considered groundbreaking upon release, and the opinion on that has yet to change. With one of the most visually pleasing worlds ever created for a sci-fi film, you’ll have a hard time not falling in love with “Avatar.” Plus, with a stellar cast – including Sigourney Weaver of “Alien” fame – the action is pretty hard to stop watching too. James Cameron knows what he’s doing when it comes to sci-fi.
Never watched any of these films before? Then it looks like it’s time for you to do some homework.