The 90s were a particularly fascinating era of science-fiction filmmaking. Like any genre, there are numerous highlights and tacky exploits that compromise its reputation. However, sci-fi truly lends itself to imaginative storytelling. It is unbound by conventional rules, yet often grounded by familiar settings and characters.
The rise of indie filmmaking in the 90s distinctly influenced larger blockbusters with their innovation. They took risks, prioritizing human stories, and that approach was only bolstered by the technological revolution of seamless CGI, which had exponentially evolved in a short period of time. Combined with unlimited visuals, filmmakers pursued bold and iconic ideas that remain timeless.
The Matrix - 88%
A profound compilation of startling ideas and creativity that remains a pinnacle of the genre, The Matrix's many inspirations are laid bare while introducing its own brand of striking iconography and contemplation. The technological side alone is astonishing, and bullet-time is now immediately recognizable.
The film’s thematic intrigue includes simple human nature, like the traitor and charming romance. But it also delves into our devastating relationship with technology. It proudly confronts conformity, faith, the nature of reality, purpose and fate. Ultimately, it is also a tale of rebellion and freedom, all with thrilling martial arts, shootouts, suspense and twists.
Galaxy Quest - 89%
A thoroughly witty and intelligent parody of the USS Enterprise and its many adventures, it is also an iconic love letter. In fact, the film is widely considered a worthy addition, and for good reason. Successful parodies are only achieved through great understanding and sincere enthusiasm.
Fortunately, the screenplay and cast are equally brilliant, with the beloved Alan Rickman in a truly iconic and standout role. Although the premise isn’t original, the execution is an absolute hit.
12 Monkeys - 90%
Perhaps not the best film to revisit these days, the plot centers around the protagonist who goes back in time to prevent a devastating outbreak. However, director Terry Gilliam boasts a remarkable imagination and delivers a stunningly clever twist on time travel.
The sense of desperation is genuinely affecting, and there is a suffocating feeling of dread and strangeness. The film can almost feel surreal at times, particularly when the protagonist becomes trapped in a psychiatric facility. The mystery unfolds with powerful nuance and twists, as well as meticulous pacing.
Jurassic Park - 91%
famed author Michael Crichton distinctly infuses the story with compelling ethical conversations, drawn directly from his own novel.
Crichton’s knowledgeable approach to medicine and science helped create a shockingly plausible world. This adventure combines everything captivating about cinema. It’s an intelligent literary adaptation with iconic John Williams music, stunning practical effects, groundbreaking CGI, witty humor, and brilliant direction.
Star Trek: First - 93%
A dazzling blockbuster with a great sense of humor, easily making this one of the most accessible films in the franchise. It’s also a breezy introduction for newcomers who are unfamiliar with Picard and his crew. With the new television show placing such an emphasis on the Borg, this serves as a thrilling companion piece.
While time travel stories can feel rather tired, this one captures a playful sense of adventure. It even allows Picard to be a John McClane action-hero for a while.
Men In Black - 92%
Still one of the reigning buddy cop movies of all time, this instant hit was a showcase for Will Smith and incredible CGI. The effects are hardly a gimmick, and instead, a character of their own.
The world uses visual effects only with great creativity and necessity. But it’s also very flashy and overwhelming, so entering this comic book adaptation from Will Smith is just the point of view audiences need. He sells the everyman attitude and heroic abilities just the same, with that trademark humor driving the entire film’s playful fun.
Terminator 2: Judgment Day - 93%
A trademark James Cameron sequel that transcends his awe-inspiring action sequences, each subsequent installment caused a powerful division across the fanbase. But this is largely because the first sequel feels like a definitive ending, which does not invite further attention.
The classic blockbuster elaborates on themes about artificial intelligence and the human condition by forging new relationships between them. They discuss humanity’s greatest flaws and strengths, including self-destruction and empathy alike. Every core idea that made the original an instant hit is successfully explored in greater detail here. And the larger budget only makes the inventive action beats even sweeter, including mesmerizing CGI.
The Truman Show - 95%
Driven by the brilliant performance from Jim Carrey, The Truman Show is also one of his most accessible stories. Both his dramatic abilities and signature comedic flair are on display, the former of which has been sorely overlooked.
Naturally, the ing cast is equally convincing, and the romance of the film is very endearing. But the story’s larger themes about the nature of reality television only resonate even more deeply today. In fact, the issues explored here have indeed worsened as technology advanced. Thankfully, the overall tone is optimistic, celebrating freedom of identity.
Ghost In The Shell - 96%
anchored in artificial intelligence, embracing that subject matter head-on.
It comprehensively debates the reality, purpose, and perspectives of an artificial being. It also dissects socio-political issues and humans’ relationship with technology and achieves all of this with spellbinding visuals and thrills.
The Iron Giant - 96%
While this is one of many stories about a child who befriends an exotic, misunderstood being, it remains an intelligent and beloved classic. Director Brad Bird proved his affinity for clever animation very early on, before the likes of supers and rodent chefs.
The core relationships in this film are surprisingly tangible and poignant. Bird’s themes may be forthright, but his approach is respectful of the audience. The film is charming and exciting, yet heartbreaking and meaningful.
