Top 10 Best 90s Sci-Fi Movies – Craig Retro’s Ultimate List
The Best 90s Sci-Fi Movies include a diverse offering of heady thinkers, amazing effects, and epic action sequences. Some include humour or romance, and others offer a bit of social commentary.
Each movie appeals to audiences in unique ways. This list reminds us of the incredible variety of awesome movies from the decade of Summer Blockbusters, and Blockbuster Video Rentals.
For those who like to nerd out on movie trivia, each entry on the list includes a trivia tidbit about the film. I’ve also included some additional interesting facts about each of the 10 best 90s sci-fi movies on this list, at the bottom of this post.
Let me know if I got the list right, or what I missed? I’d love to hear your opinion.
But first, on with the show…
10) Armageddon (1998): A Guilty Pleasure Packed with Explosive Entertainment
I know; barf, right?
Call it a guilty pleasure, but I have a soft spot for this epic, over-the-top sci-fi action movie that combines CGI, explosions, a star-studded cast, and a bit of romance to create one big blockbuster film.
This movie divides audiences. I actually find the film’s divisiveness amusing. Sure, the movie is ridiculous, but I’ve seen movies that are way worse. I guess “haters, gonna hate.”
“Armageddon” isn’t deep, and it isn’t scientifically sound. However, there’s no denying the thrill it offers as an escape from the mundane. With underdog heroics, a barrage of visual and auditory effects, and a love story punctuated by an Aerosmith-led soundtrack, Armageddon fulfills its mission: to entertain.
If you’re willing to let your guard down (like way down), this movie can still get you in the feels.
Every “best of list” needs at least one controversial pick, making Armageddon a great pick to kick of our list of the Best 90s Sci-Fi Movies.
Did You Know?
Armageddon wasn’t the only asteroid-themed movie of 1998. Released just two months after “Deep Impact,” it sparked rumours of corporate espionage and competitive tactics in Hollywood.
9) Starship Troopers (1997): A Movie That Rebounded From Early Criticisms to Become a Cult Classic
“Starship Troopers” initially strikes viewers as a blend of ridiculous, gory, and laugh-out-loud moments, wrapped in a straightforward narrative of humans versus bugs.
It’s easy to get lost in the movie’s on-screen silliness as the camera gets splattered with alien guts and human innards, and stuff goes boom.
The dialogue can be a bit cringey at times, but it can also be pretty hilarious. This is a movie that straddles the line between awesome and absurd, yet somehow still finds a way to land on my list of the 10 best 90s sci-fi movies.
Beneath the surface-level thrills, Starship Troopers offers a satirical glance at the military-industrial complex, cleverly disguised under the waves of sci-fi action. Johnny Rico’s journey invites us to see beyond the gore and one-liners to engage with its deeper message.
Did You Know?
The film is a commentary on Robert Heinlein’s pro-war novel. The screenplay adds a satirical twist, that includes fascist overtones, a stark contrast to the book’s more political focus.
8) Universal Soldier (1992): A Straightforward, R-Rated, Violent Sc-Fi Action Movie, That’s Too Generic for Some
Watching “Universal Soldier” at the age of 12 at my buddy Jason’s house was a cool experience. The movie, with its R-rated Violence was bloody, brutal, and badass.
For a tween, the movie’s rating should’ve prevented me from seeing it, but I was a real rebel and watched it. Part of the thrill of this movie is probably due, in part, to knowing that I was breaking the rules by watching it.
However, Van Damme was the Van Man of Action Movies in that era. The movie is pretty generic and predictable, but I remember being impressed with the effects and fight scenes.
I think what I like about this movie is that it’s actually kinda’ 80s Action Movie-ish; only with early 90s special effects. I’m also a sucker for a good old fashion Humans vs Machines story, where (SPOILER ALERT) we come out on top.
Did You Know?
The film’s Vietnam scenes were shot on a golf course in Kingman, Arizona. The course was transformed using artificial foliage to mimic the dense jungle.
7) Independence Day (1996): A Blockbuster Blend of Cheese, Spectacle, and Action
“Independence Day” has that special kind of 90s blockbuster charm. It uses the popular formula of combining cool special effects, swelling soundtracks, and big-name movie stars, to push the relentless action sequences towards a high-stakes climax.
Will Smith, transitioning from his “Fresh Prince” days to the big screen, proves he can hold his own as an action hero. His blend of coolness, swagger, toughness, and timely humour hits in all the right places. His iconic “Welcome to Earth!” punchline, after punching out an alien, perfectly encapsulates the film’s over-the-top yet thrilling nature.
The aerial dogfights between the US F-18 Hornets and the advanced alien fighter craft is equal parts “Star Wars” and “Top Gun.” Even the US President takes the fight to the aliens, piloting his own F-18 against waves of ET’s and UFOs. It’s enough to make even this Canadian feel a surge of American pride!
If there wasn’t enough of a David vs. Goliath story unfolding already, Uncle Eddie shows up, and drives the underdog storyline home as he bravely flys a nuke into one of the Alien motherships, scoring a decisive victory for earthlings.
Did You Know?
The film initially received support from the U.S. military, which was later retracted due to the script’s references to Area 51 and its alleged extraterrestrial projects.
6) Terminator 2: Judgment Day (1991): Too Mature for Some Audiences; Yet Still Makes an Impact
My experience with “Terminator 2: Judgment Day” is somewhat unconventional. I was 11 when it hit theatres, and my parents forbade me from seeing it because of its mature themes and violence. (I wasn’t a rebellious twelve-teen year-old yet.)
The music videos for the Guns N’ Roses’ songs on the T2 soundtrack were the closest I’d get to seeing the film. By the time I reached an age where I could make my viewing choices, I hadn’t seen the first film and thought it would be a waste of time to watch T2 without first watching the OG Terminator movie. For some reason, I wasn’t motivated enough to go back and watch either film.
Over time, I caught glimpses of the movie while at friends’ places, during sleepovers or birthday parties. However, my attention was often hijacked by the allure of a Super Nintendo or Sega Genesis in the next room.
To this day, I don’t think I’ve seen the whole thing start-to-finish. Despite this fragmented experience though, I acknowledge its rightful place on a list celebrating Sci-Fi superiority. Its monumental contributions to the genre, and to the realms of special effects and cinematic action, cannot be overstated.
Did You Know?
“Terminator 2: Judgment Day” shattered expectations and records alike, grossing over $520 million worldwide. It became the highest-grossing film of 1991 and solidified Arnold Schwarzenegger’s status as a Hollywood titan.
5) Gattaca (1997): A Beautiful, Ambitious, and Well-Written Affair
My introduction to “Gattaca” came through my buddy Garit, the biggest movie buff in my circle of friends. He holds this film in high regard, ranking it among his top Sci-Fi picks of all time.
I share his enthusiasm. Unlike the typical Sci-Fi films we grew up with that were full of action sequences, or horror elements, “Gattaca” struck a different chord. Its beauty, hope, and ambition, set it apart. Its story is as as uplifting as it is deep.
Ethan Hawke, in what I consider his finest role, embodies the spirit of the film with such authenticity that it’s hard to imagine anyone else playing his part.
Admittedly, it took me more than one viewing to really get the movie. However, it was clear after my first watch, that this movie was something special. “Gattaca” is a story about the power of human will, serving as an important commentary on the role of technology and ethics in modern society.
Did You Know?
The title “Gattaca” is composed of the letters used to label the nucleotide bases of DNA (adenine, cytosine, guanine, and thymine: A, C, G, T). This is a subtle nod to the film’s genetic themes.
4) Dark City (1998): Dark Subject Matter Sparks Joy in the Sci-Fi Hearts of its Viewers
The first time I watched “Dark City” was with my friends Shane, Garit, and my brother Mike. Growing up reading comic books, we were instantly drawn to its gritty, dark aesthetic. The movie looks like a live-action graphic novel.
This film stands out for its unique ability to craft a world that is dark, foreboding, mysterious, and full of anxiety-inducing suspense. The cryptic presence of the Strangers and their ability to put people sleep, intensify the film’s eerie intrigue.
Kiefer Sutherland does an awesome job at taking us along for the ride with him, as we unravel the mystery at the same time he does. I enjoy movies that drop you into the middle of a story, and you have to try and piece things together through the eyes of the protagonist, as they desperately try to solve a mystery before its too late.
However, it’s the film’s climactic payoff that truly solidifies its position among my top movies. The way it wraps up its complex narrative with a satisfying conclusion is a truly masterful piece of moviemaking. “Dark City” is one of those movies that lingers with you long after the credits roll.
Did You Know?
Roger Ebert, the renowned film critic, championed “Dark City” from its release, later naming it the best film of 1998. Ebert’s persistent praise helped elevate the movie’s status and contributed to its cult following. He even recorded a commentary track for the Director’s Cut DVD.
3) Jurassic Park (1993): An Iconic Score, Sweet Animatronics, and Weird Science Bring its Dinosaurs to Life
“Jurassic Park” was made to be watched on the big screen. Out of the movies covered so far, I only saw two in theatres; the rest were rented on VHS. But JP was a movie that I saw in theatre, twice. It was equally awesome both times, (and the numerous times I rewatched it on VHS, and later on DVD.
The sheer magnitude of the film and its revolutionary concept made it a cinematic event, rather than just another night out at the movies. The dinosaurs that were brought to life with cutting-edge visual effects looked so realistic and believable. They were truly magical.
I can still remember the chilling thrill that coursed through me during the iconic scene where the cup of water ripples with each approaching footstep of the terrifying T-Rex. Watching “Jurassic Park” was an immersive blend of fun and fear. It’s a cinematic rollercoaster that makes you feel as though you’re right there alongside the characters, and the dinos too.
The film’s score is masterfully composed by John Williams. His soundtrack plays an important role in portraying the grandioseness of the movie. It also accentuates the many emotions of the onscreen protagonists. Much like “Star Wars,” the music of “Jurassic Park” elevates the film’s visuals and story, captivating audiences who will never forget their first visit to the island.
Did You Know?
The terrifying roars of the T-Rex were created by combining the sounds of different animals, including a baby elephant, a tiger, and an alligator. This innovative approach to sound design added a layer of realism to the dinosaurs that had never been heard before.
2) 12 Monkeys (1995): Much More than Mere Monkey Business; a Sci-Fi Gold Standard
“12 Monkeys” was a film that really made me think. It was one of those rare movies that I watched again the very next day to piece everything together.
Bruce Willis playing the lead role added an immediate cool factor and credibility to the film. Watching it with my buddy Lewis, we both knew we liked it. But we weren’t entirely sure that we fully understood everything the first time we watched it. Which was a-ok, because it was definitely worth rewatching.
What struck me was the complexity and the physical and mental toll of time travel on the characters. It was evident that humans weren’t meant to, or hadn’t yet evolved to, handle the harsh realities of time travel.
I was drawn to the psychological depth of Bruce Willis’s character as he navigates his own mind. The mental struggle is tangible as we ride shotgun with him while he tries to piece together reality, and understand what needs to be done to save humanity. I like movies that mess with your mind a little. Just to the point where trying to figure out what’s really going on, is a tad bit painful.
This film isn’t just a cool, conceptual, exploration of time travel. It’s a movie about the human condition, resilience, and our innate drive to overcome insurmountable obstacles.
Did You Know?
The haunting dream sequences that recur throughout the film were shot in different locations around the world. Scenes were filmed in Philadelphia and Baltimore in the United States, and even parts of the Dominican Republic. These sequences were designed to blend seamlessly with the film’s dystopian landscapes, creating a disorienting effect that mirrors the protagonist’s psychological turmoil.
1) The Matrix (1999): The Movie that Catapulted Us Into the New Millennium, and Challenged Our Perception of Reality
“The Matrix” has the unfair advantage of being created at the tail end of the 90s, allowing it to benefit from the giant leaps in filmmaking that occurred during the decade.
But the Matrix’s production crew didn’t just use these technological advancements in digital effects, CGI, and sound production to make their movie great. They pushed the limits of available technology to create new and exciting ways to tell stories, influencing generations to come.
I was 19 when I first saw the movie in theatre. The effects were mind-blowing, but I was fascinated by the movie’s intricate storyline and deep concepts. Having grown up absorbed in video games, computers, and the early days of the internet, meant “The Matrix” was right up my alley. (Plus, being Canadian, I was like “whoa,” at seeing fellow Canuck, Keanu Reeves from “Bill and Ted’s Excellent Adventure” playing the lead)
To this day, The Matrix is easily one of the most captivating movies I have ever experienced. I remember leaving the theatre and feeling strange, questioning whether the reality around me was in fact real, or whether there was a chance that we too could be leaving in the matrix. I mentioned earlier that I like movies that mess with your mind a bit. This one sure did. It was jarring to imagine a world where everything was really a computer simulation, and nothing was really real.
Did I Mention, I Love The Matrix?
The story isn’t just a mind-bending experience though, it’s also a classic example of the “Hero’s Journey” (or “Monomyth”), Joseph Campbell’s mythological storytelling structure. The same effective structure used by George Lucas in Star Wars (1977) and a number of other epic films since.
The film uses the structure to show Nero’s development from a reluctant hero, to becoming a confident, highly-skilled, invincible, master of the Matrix. The film effectively builds tension and anticipation, while establishing that Neo is humanity’s only hope.
The moment Neo decides to rescue Morpheus, knowing that he will most likely face certain doom, still sends shivers down my spine. The suspense is almost unbearable as Neo saves Morpheus but gets trapped in the Matrix, and appears to die.
The big payoff comes in that pivotal moment when Neo’s full metamorphosis into “The One” finally occurs. The hero is resurrected when Trinity proclaims her love for him, completing the Oracle’s prophecy, and instilling Neo with the ultimate belief that he really is The One.
I think I pumped my fist in the air, breathing a sigh of relief as Neo effortlessly dispatches the agents who now stand no chance against him.
Did You Know?
Before Keanu Reeves was cast as Neo, the role was offered to Will Smith, who turned it down to star in “Wild Wild West.” This decision is often cited by Smith as one of his biggest career regrets.
Closing Thoughts About this List of the Top 10 Best 90s Sci Fi Movies
As we wrap up this nostalgic journey through the 10 best 90s sci-fi movies, revisiting these monumental films reminds us of the decade’s incredible contributions to the genre.
From groundbreaking special effects to thought-provoking narratives, these films didn’t just entertain; they challenged, inspired, and captivated us. They pushed the boundaries of what was possible in cinema, leaving a lasting legacy that continues to influence filmmakers and audiences alike.
What do you think about the list? We’d love to hear what movies you think we should’ve been included, and what ones you are offended (or just slightly perplexed at), that made the list? Drop a comment below and let’s keep on talking about 90s Sci-Fi.
Thanks for stopping by.
Have a rad rest of your day!
More Movie Facts About the 10 Best 90s Sci-Fi Movies
Armageddon
- With a staggering budget of $140 million, Armageddon was among the priciest films of its time. Yet, it soared at the box office, making over $550 million globally, cementing its status as a blockbuster hit.
- In an effort to lend some authenticity to its space missions, the production team consulted with NASA. This collaboration aimed to accurately depict spacecraft designs and the logistics of space travel, despite the movie’s noted scientific inaccuracies.
- Despite its scientific liberties, the film didn’t go unnoticed at the Oscars. It securing nominations in categories like Best Sound, Best Visual Effects, and Best Original Song, among others.
Starship Troopers
- Both Mark Wahlberg and James Marsden were in the running for the lead role of Johnny Rico before Casper Van Dien was ultimately chosen.
- Supervised by Phil Tippett, a legend for his work on “Star Wars” and “Jurassic Park,” the movie’s creature effects blended CGI, stop-motion animation, and animatronics to bring the Alien arachnids to life.
- Initially met with criticism for its perceived endorsement of fascism, “Starship Troopers” has since been reevaluated as a satire of authoritarian governance. It has grown in relevance and appreciation over the years.
Universal Soldier
- The eyepieces worn by the UniSols drew inspiration from the Borg of Star Trek: The Next Generation. Suggesting a thematic parallel of reanimated beings merged with technology.
- A publicized altercation between Van Damme and Lundgren at the 1992 Cannes Film Festival was later revealed to be a staged publicity stunt to promote the film.
- The movie‘s success spawned several sequels. It also inspired a video game and comic book series, expanding its universe beyond the original film.
Independence Day
- A light-rigged helicopter used for the film caused quite a stir, with over 150 Californians reporting UFO sightings to the police.
- The setting at the El Toro Airbase and the pivotal computer virus draw inspiration from “The War of the Worlds.” Both use humanity’s smallest weapons being the key to victory against the alien invaders.
- The slimy substance covering the aliens was made from K-Y Jelly, a common personal lubricant.
Terminator 2: Judgement Day
- The movie didn’t just rake in box office gold; it was a critical success too. It won four Academy Awards, including Best Makeup, Best Sound Mixing, Best Sound Editing, and Best Visual Effects.
- At the time of its release, “T2” was groundbreaking for its use of CGI, particularly the liquid metal effects of the T-1000. The film’s visual effects team pushed the boundaries of digital technology, setting a new standard for future cinema.
- During the scene in the mental hospital, Sarah Connor’s escape attempt includes picking a lock with a paperclip. This skill was actually taught to Linda Hamilton by a professional locksmith. She became so proficient that she could easily pick the locks on set.
Gattaca
- Despite its modest box office performance, “Gattaca” has grown in stature over the years, achieving cult classic status. Its themes of genetic discrimination and personal identity have become increasingly relevant, resonating with audiences worldwide.
- The film’s unique aesthetic is achieved by filming at various modernist locations, including Frank Lloyd Wright’s Marin County Civic Center. These settings help create its distinctive futuristic, yet timeless setting.
- NASA has shown “Gattaca” to its management training program participants. It serves as a discussion point for the ethical implications of genetic engineering and the exploration of space.
Dark City
- A Director’s Cut was released in 2008, which removed the opening narration at the request of director Alex Proyas. This version provides a purer experience by allowing the city’s secrets to unfold naturally, amplifying the film’s mystery and intrigue.
- Alex Proyas is quoted as stating he conceived the idea for “Dark City” while he was working on “The Crow.” During filming breaks while working on The Crow, Proyas and Brandon Lee discussed future projects they wanted to pursue together. Some speculate that Lee may have been cast as John Murdoch, had he not tragically passed away.
- At the beginning of the film, John Murdoch wakes up in motel room number 614. Interestingly, this number corresponds to John Chapter 6, Verse 14 in the Bible, which prophesies the arrival of the Saviour.
Jurassic Park
- Director Steven Spielberg pioneered the modern summer blockbuster with “Jaws,” despite the shark being visible for only four minutes due to frequent malfunctions. Spielberg’s use of minimalistic techniques heightened suspense, making viewers’ imaginations compensate for what wasn’t shown. In “Jurassic Park,” despite technological advances, Spielberg applied a similar approach. Dinosaurs feature for just fifteen minutes during the 127-minute film, with only about six minutes of CGI; the rest involved animatronics. This blending of effects allowed the dinosaurs to display more dynamic movements than the shark in “Jaws,”making them appear even more realistic.
- Director Steven Spielberg was so confident in the film’s success that he began working on “Schindler’s List” in Poland before “Jurassic Park” was even finished. He monitored post-production remotely, making decisions via satellite link-up. He also called on his friend George Lucas to help put the finishing touches on the film. Lucas and his team, contributed significantly tothe sound and visual effects added in production.
- Spielberg selected Kauaʻi, Hawaii, as the filming location for Isla Nublar. As the production neared completion, Hurricane Iniki struck, becoming the most powerful hurricane to ever impact Hawaii. Though the cast and crew were sheltered safely in a hotel, the island suffered extensive damage from winds reaching 145 miles per hour.
12 Monkeys
- The film received two Academy Award nominations, including one for Best Supporting Actor for Brad Pitt.
- Brad Pitt received some tips on how people institutionalized due to mental illness actually behave by Dr. Laszlo Gyulai, head of the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine’s bipolar disorders unit. In an interview with The New York Times, Gyulai pointed out that movies often misrepresent psychiatric patients as deranged, though many patients, especially those with depression or mood disorders, are not clinically insane. Additionally, it is rumoured that director Terry Gilliam added authenticity and tension to Brad Pitt’s performance by removing his cigarettes during filming.
- “12 Monkeys” was inspired by Chris Marker’s 1962 short film “La Jetée.” The film is notable for its narrative being told almost entirely through still photos. It explores similar themes of time travel and post-apocalyptic despair.
- One of the most memorable props in “12 Monkeys” is the massive spherical “TV Ball,” which broadcasts different scenes from the dystopian future on numerous TV sets. Interestingly, this prop almost didn’t appear in the film because it was notoriously challenging to manage during filming. The electronic systems often malfunctioned, as did the hydraulic mechanisms that enabled were used to move it. Almost every time it was used in a scene, it malfunctioned.
The Matrix
- Neo is an anagram of the word “One.” In the movie, Neo becomes “The One.” To add a bit of subtext to the anagram, Keanu Reeves is actually dyslexic.
- “The Matrix” popularized the “bullet time” effect, a revolutionary visual effect that allows the viewer to explore a moment from multiple viewpoints at once, creating the illusion of time standing still. The effect was created using a setup that included 120 digital still cameras and two film cameras. These still images were then combined to form the shot, frame by frame.
- “The Matrix” won four Academy Awards, all in technical categories: Best Visual Effects, Best Film Editing, Best Sound, and Best Sound Editing. It beat out the highly anticipated George’ Lucas’s Star Wars Prequel: The Phantom Menace in each of these 4 categories; categories Lucasfilm were previously famous for innovating.
- Keanu Reeves earned $35 million from his work on the movie. He generously donated 70% of this amount, which is $24.5 million, to leukemia research. His sister was battling the disease at the time. Additionally, during the production of The Matrix sequels, Reeves gifted $1 million to each member of the special effects and costume departments. By the conclusion of The Matrix Trilogy, he had donated a total of $75 million.
FAQ:
Q. Why focus on the 10 Best 90s Sci-Fi Movies. ?
The ’90s were a transformative decade for Sci-Fi, marked by significant technological advancements and storytelling innovation. This list celebrates the unique impact and diversity of that era’s Sci-Fi cinema.
Q. How did you choose the 10 best 90s sci-fi movies for your list?
My selections were based on a mix of personal impact, the movies’ innovation in the genre, and their cultural significance. Each film that I consider to be ranked in the top 10 best 90s sci-fi movies left a distinct impression on me.
Q. Are there any notable omissions from your list?
While many other fantastic Sci-Fi movies were released in the ’90s, I focused on those that had a profound personal impact. Cinema is subjective, and my list reflects my personal experiences with the genre growing up.
Q. Will you be doing similar lists for other decades or genres?
Definitely!
Craig is a partner, and proud father of a teenage daughter, and two dogs. He's an avid blogger who loves researching and discussing 80s and 90s nostalgia. When not working on his website or hanging with his fam, Craig enjoys playing guitar, watching lacrosse, and being near water.