The Greatest Sci-Fi Movies Of All Time
What are the greatest sci-fi movies of all time? These good science fiction films are among the most popular movies in cinematic history, with films like Star Wars and Aliens keeping audiences on the edge of their collective seats for decades. This list includes these classics, and many more, so get ready to vote for your favorite sci-fi movies of all time.
Want to see more of the best Sci-Fi? Here are the Best Sci-Fi TV Shows of All Time.
Great sci-fi films include stories of extraterrestrial life, time travel, space travel, robots and more. Some of these amazing science fiction movies are more fantasy-oriented, while others are a bit closer to reality. Either way, sci-fi films keep audiences rapt with tales of science and technology, combined, at times with the supernatural.
Some sci-fi films are based on classic novels or short stories by such heavyweight authors as H.G. Wells (War of the Worlds, The Invisible Man) or Philip K. Dick (Blade Runner, Minority Report).
What are the best sci-fi movies of all time? This list of the best sci-fi films is also crowd ranked, meaning you can rerank your own greatest sci-fi movies. Your reranks can change the overall order of the films on the list! Also, if you love sci-fi, check out this list of the best new sci-fi shows of the last few years.
- Sigourney Weaver, Carrie Henn, Michael Biehn
- Released: 1986
- Directed by: James Cameron
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.
- Mark Hamill, Harrison Ford, Carrie Fisher
- Released: 1980
- Directed by: Irvin Kershner
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.
- Arnold Schwarzenegger, Linda Hamilton, Michael Biehn
- Released: 1984
- Directed by: James Cameron
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.
- Tom Skerritt, Sigourney Weaver, John Hurt
- Released: 1979
- Directed by: Ridley Scott
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.
- Keanu Reeves, Laurence Fishburne, Carrie-Anne Moss
- Released: 1999
- Directed by: Lilly Wachowski, Lana Wachowski
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.
- Harrison Ford, Rutger Hauer, Sean Young
- Released: 1982
- Directed by: Ridley Scott
This visually stunning and thematically complex film, directed by Ridley Scott, is set in a dystopian future where synthetic humans known as replicants are used as slaves. When a group of fugitive replicants escapes, a washed-up detective is called upon to hunt them down, leading to an existential and thrilling story. With its iconic visuals, haunting soundtrack, and thought-provoking themes, it's no surprise that this film is considered a sci-fi masterpiece.