The Best of 21st Century Sci-Fi

Over the last two decades, filmmakers have delivered some of the most creative and original science fiction movies in cinematic history. These films, ranging from time travel comedies to dramatic thrillers, demonstrate why sci-fi remains a consistently popular genre.

10. 'Nirvanna the Band the Show the Movie' (2023)

Canada’s filmography boasts many underappreciated masterpieces. Nirvanna the Band the Show the Movie, a legacy sequel to the web series and sitcom, is a recent international sensation. Created by Matt Johnson and Jay McCarrol, the film is a love letter to Toronto and late-2000s pop culture, and a clever parody of Back to the Future.

9. 'The Prestige' (2006)

No list of 21st-century sci-fi is complete without mentioning Christopher Nolan. The Prestige, released between Batman Begins and The Dark Knight, is a hugely acclaimed, yet often underrated, sci-fi thriller. It’s a rousing tale of rivalry and revenge with subtle steampunk elements.

8. 'Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse' (2023)

Following the success of Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse, Across the Spider-Verse surpassed expectations. It’s a love letter to the Spidey mythos and a nuanced study of the superhero genre. The film is celebrated for its impressive visuals, excellent sound design, and Daniel Pemberton’s score.

7. 'Interstellar' (2014)

Christopher Nolan further cemented his status as a leading sci-fi director with Interstellar. The film is a perfectly-directed epic, but at its core, it’s a character-driven story about a father and daughter. It features stunning visual effects, strong performances, and a memorable score by Hans Zimmer.

6. 'Arrival' (2016)

Arrival established Denis Villeneuve as a prominent voice in Hollywood sci-fi. This alien invasion film distinguishes itself through its exploration of language, communication, and memory. Villeneuve’s direction earned him his first Oscar nomination, and the film’s enthralling writing and plot make it a must-see.

5. 'Everything Everywhere All At Once' (2022)

Everything Everywhere All At Once was a surprise Oscar winner, taking home seven Academy Awards. The film’s ambitious scope, quirky humor, and elements of campy silliness combine to create a thrilling and touching tale about parenthood, love, and aging.

4. 'Children of Men' (2006)

Alfonso Cuarón’s Children of Men is a dystopian action thriller that has become a cult classic. The film is known for its thrilling sequences, nail-biting suspense, and hopeful message about humanity’s resilience. It features excellent performances and striking cinematography by Emmanuel Lubezki.

3. 'Mad Max: Fury Road' (2015)

George Miller returned to the Mad Max franchise after three decades with Fury Road. This film is considered one of the most perfect sci-fi action movies of the 21st century, praised for its world-building, adrenaline-fueled action, and stunning visuals.

2. 'Dune: Part Two' (2024)

Denis Villeneuve successfully adapted Frank Herbert’s Dune, with Dune: Part Two exceeding all expectations. It’s often compared to The Empire Strikes Back for its epic scope and dark-toned ending. The film is lauded for its cinematography, score, performances, and Villeneuve’s imaginative direction.

1. 'Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind' (2004)

By 2004, Charlie Kaufman had established himself as a talented screenwriter. He then wrote Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind, directed by Michel Gondry, which is considered the most perfect science fiction movie of the 21st century. The film uses sci-fi elements to enhance its story about relationships and memory.