The Best New Sci-Fi Movies Of The Last Few Years - Ranker
Over 2K filmgoers have voted on the 60+ films on Best New Sci-Fi Movies Of The Last Few Years. Current Top 3: Dune, Dune: Part Two, Everything Everywhere ...
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Modern <anchor>science fiction movies</anchor> provide audiences with a wide range of subject matter. The genre offers a lot of flexibility, as it is capable of telling stories set on Earth or in outer space. Often times, the two are combined, with aliens visiting our planet or by having earthlings journey to another planet. Audiences have long enjoyed the speculative nature of sci-fi - the way it imagines amazing scientific breakthroughs, futuristic societies, interstellar battles, and more. It taps directly into our collective imagination.
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# The Best Sci-Fi Movies Of All Time

Harper Brooks

Updated September 11, 2024498.8K views413 items

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708.2K votes

27.1K voters

209 reranks

Latest additions: Uglies, Slingshot, Alien: Romulus

Most divisive: The Matrix Reloaded

Over 27.1K Ranker voters have come together to rank this list of The Best Sci-Fi Movies Of All Time

The best sci-fi movies of all time have captivated our imaginations and transported us to fantastic new worlds beyond our reach. Whether you’re a die-hard fan of the genre or simply looking for an escape from reality, this list is your one-way ticket to the cosmos. This article showcases a crowdranked list of over 400 popular sci-fi movies, carefully ranked by thousands of avid film buffs and science fiction geeks. From classics to contemporary favorites, our criteria include cultural impact, memorable performances, storytelling, special effects, and innovation in film.

Highlights among the list include beloved classics like Star Wars: Episode V - The Empire Strikes Back and Blade Runner, both known for their groundbreaking visuals and compelling narratives. On the more recent front, movies such as Interstellar (2014) delve deep into themes of survival and sacrifice, with stunning special effects and a heartfelt story. Also from Christopher Nolan, Inception (2010) challenges perceptions of reality with its intricate dream-within-a-dream narrative, while The Martian (2015) offers a riveting tale of survival on Mars starring Matt Damon. The visually stunning Mad Max: Fury Road (2015) is a breathtakingly intense post-apocalyptic ride, and Guardians of the Galaxy (2014) brings a fresh, humorous twist to the superhero genre. Other good scifi movies vying for the top spot on our rankings include Ex Machina, 2001: A Space Odyssey, Back to the Future, Edge of Tomorrow, and Galaxy Quest.

Your voice matters! Check out the full list and make your opinions known by voting on your favorites. Let’s celebrate these cinematic marvels and ensure that every vote shapes the ranking of the greatest sci-fi movies ever made. Whether you're here to revisit classics, find new adventures, or looking for a cool flick to watch, your participation helps keep the conversation alive and thriving. So, dive in, vote, and let’s explore these awesome films together!



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1

## Star Wars: Episode V - The Empire Strikes Back

Mark Hamill, Harrison Ford, Carrie Fisher

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12,157 votes

In this iconic sequel, our favorite heroes from a galaxy far, far away face an uphill battle against the evil Empire. From the ice planet Hoth to the swamps of Dagobah, the film explores new environments and introduces fan-favorite characters like Yoda and Boba Fett. With its game-changing twist and unforgettable moments, it's no wonder the film is hailed as one of the best sci-fi movies of all time.

- Released: 1980

- Directed by: Irvin Kershner

- Dig DeeperHere's Why The Last Jedi And Empire Strikes Back Are Pretty Much The Same Movie

- Also ranks #3 onThe Best Movies Of The 1980s, Ranked

- Also ranks #24 onThe Most Rewatchable Movies



2

## Aliens

Sigourney Weaver, Carrie Henn, Michael Biehn

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9,609 votes

Pitting humans against a deadly extraterrestrial species, this pulse-pounding sequel ramps up the action from its predecessor. Directed by James Cameron, the film follows a team of space marines joining forces with Ripley to rescue a colony overrun by the terrifying creatures. With its intense action sequences and Sigourney Weaver's strong central performance, it's easy to see why this movie remains a sci-fi classic.

- Released: 1986

- Directed by: James Cameron

- Dig Deeper12 Behind-The-Scenes Stories From 'Aliens'

- Also ranks #20 onThe Best Movies Of The 1980s, Ranked

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3

## The Terminator

Arnold Schwarzenegger, Linda Hamilton, Michael Biehn

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9,504 votes

In this groundbreaking film, a relentless cyborg assassin is sent back in time to kill Sarah Connor, the mother of humanity's future savior. With edge-of-your-seat action and a gripping cat-and-mouse chase, it introduced audiences to the now-iconic Terminator character. Packed with memorable one-liners and a star-making turn from Arnold Schwarzenegger, this movie is an essential entry in the realm of science fiction.

- Released: 1984

- Directed by: James Cameron

- Dig Deeper56 Things You Didn't Know About the Terminator Movies

- And Deeper12 'Terminator' Fan Theories That Are Just Crazy Enough To Be True

- Also ranks #6 onThe Best Movies Of The 1980s, Ranked

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4

## Alien

Tom Skerritt, Sigourney Weaver, John Hurt

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10,643 votes

Redefining the horror and sci-fi genres, this chilling tale of a spaceship crew stalked by a deadly extraterrestrial creature is a masterclass in suspense. Directed by Ridley Scott and starring Sigourney Weaver as the iconic Ripley, the movie features groundbreaking special effects and a claustrophobic atmosphere that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats. With its undeniable influence on subsequent films, it's clear why this movie has earned its place among the greatest sci-fi movies ever made.

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5

## The Matrix

Keanu Reeves, Laurence Fishburne, Carrie-Anne Moss

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11,583 votes

This mind-bending film changed the landscape of sci-fi cinema with its innovative visuals and thought-provoking premise. Set in a dystopian future where humanity is unknowingly enslaved within a virtual reality, it follows the journey of a hacker named Neo as he seeks to discover the truth about his world. With groundbreaking action sequences and a gripping story, this movie is a must-watch for any fans of the genre.

- Released: 1999

- Directed by: Lilly Wachowski, Lana Wachowski

- Dig Deeper11 Behind-The-Scenes Stories From 'The Matrix' That Made Us Say 'Whoa'

- Also ranks #8 onThe Biggest Movies Of The '90s, Ranked

- Also ranks #42 onThe Most Rewatchable Movies

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6

## Terminator 2: Judgment Day

Arnold Schwarzenegger, Linda Hamilton, Edward Furlong

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10,183 votes

This thrilling sequel sees Arnold Schwarzenegger return as the now-heroic Terminator, sent back in time to protect Sarah Connor and her teenage son John from a new, more advanced assassin. With groundbreaking special effects and non-stop action, it builds upon the successful formula of its predecessor while adding depth to its characters and story. A prime example of a sequel that elevates its franchise, it's a must-see for any sci-fi enthusiast.

- Released: 1991

- Directed by: James Cameron

- Dig DeeperBehind-The-Scenes Stories From 'Terminator 2,' The Sequel That Somehow Exceeded The Hype

- Also ranks #7 onThe Biggest Movies Of The '90s, Ranked

- Also ranks #47 onThe Most Rewatchable Movies

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