15 True Sci-Fi Movies That Get Everything Right

15. Oxygen

Oxygen is a hard sci-fi film that takes a realistic approach to survival in space. Although it might be overlooked due to its French origin, it’s a must-watch if you go in without any spoilers and teasers. | © Netflix

14. Coherence

Coherence is a fantastic low-budget sci-fi film that shows what can be achieved with creativity and lots of improvisation. Shot in just five days with a simple handheld style, it delivers a slow-burning psychological story full of clever twists that keep the tension high. | © Oscilloscope Pictures

13. Destination Moon

Destination Moon is a classic sci-fi movie that predicted a moon landing with its accurate science and charming Technicolor effects. While writers keep their feet on the ground by standing away from aliens, a mediocre comic performance by Dick Wesson sometimes distracts from the overall experience. | © Eagle-Lion Classics

12. The Toxic Avenger

The Toxic Avenger is a wild cult classic that boldly goes its way with over-the-top effects and delightfully silly acting. This fun, offbeat satire brings a playful mix of gore and humor that’s sure to leave you laughing from start to finish. | © Cineverse

11. Deep Impact

Deep Impact delivers a powerful, human-centred take on a world-facing disaster. With intimate personal stories and suspenseful space action, it feels more heartfelt and engaging than typical blockbuster thrillers. | © Paramount Pictures

10. Contagion

Contagion stands out from other virus thrillers with its tight pacing, excellent cinematography, and strong performances. Even if the medical details aren't perfect, it's an engaging and well-crafted film that's worth a rewatch. | © 20th Century Studios

9. Europa Report

Europa Report offers a surprisingly realistic take on space travel, complete with a rotating spaceship for gravity and accurate trip durations. While the ending takes a creative turn away from strict realism, it still makes for an awesome and enjoyable movie. | © Magnolia Pictures

8. Arrival

Arrival feels like one of those timeless stories you grew up with, using aliens as memorable characters to reveal a deeper message about time, love, and the meaning of life. With a simple and powerful narrative, this movie invites you to look beyond the surface and discover profound lessons. | © Paramount Pictures

7. Apollo 13

Apollo 13 is a gripping true story of a near-disastrous space mission that highlights the courage and determination of its crew. With outstanding performances from Ed Harris, Tom Hanks, and the rest of the cast, the film captures the tension and heart behind every moment. | © Universal Studios

6. Outland

Outland marks a strong comeback for Sean Connery, with critics thrilled to see him back in action after a few years away from the screen. The film impresses with its striking production design and steady pace, while Connery's stellar performance makes the routine plot all the more engaging. | © Warner Bros. Pictures

5. Primer

Primer is a mind-bending sci-fi film where two young inventors stumble upon a discovery that quickly spirals out of control. With its focus on clever ideas over flashy visuals, the movie challenges you to follow its complex logic like a physicist checking their work. | © ThinkFilm

4. Contact

Contact offers a realistic take on how chaos would erupt if we made contact with alien life, capturing the tangled mess of government actions and human reactions. It shows that when faced with the unknown, our conflicting priorities and emotions can quickly turn a historic moment into a complicated event. | © Warner Bros. Pictures

3. The Martian

The Martian is a sci-fi film that focuses on human effort and clever science instead of dwelling on our fears of the unknown. With a perfectly charming performance by Matt Damon, it mixes tech-savvy optimism with moments that truly touch the heart. | © 20th Century Studios

2. Andromeda Strain

Andromeda Strain is the finest example of how to make sci-fi movies, focusing on the story and without relying on special effects. Featuring great acting and impressive sets, it tells a smart science mystery that shows real science can beat modern CGI effects. | © Universal Studios

1. 2001: A Space Odyssey

2001: A Space Odyssey is a stunning sci-fi movie with rotating gravity spaceships, silent spacewalks, and realistic communication delays, celebrated by most as a masterpiece. Its glorious music, dazzling colors, and eerie HAL create an unforgettable atmosphere, even if its human characters and slow pace leave much to be desired. | © Warner Bros. Pictures