Top 50 Most Popular Cyberpunk Movies To Watch In 2025

Aishwarya Aishwarya - Updated Jun 13, 2025

Cyberpunk is a genre of movies that has emerged and growing stronger in recent years. These movies were a sub-genre under Sci-fi movie listings, but they are now creating a separate niche for themselves.

For the people who don't know, Cyberpunk is a term coined by Bruce Bethke to describe a future dystopian society where technology, specifically cybernetics A. I., has taken over the world.

In earlier days, when computers, the internet, etc., were not common, they would have described the scenario as Machines taking over the world.

The 1927 movie, Metropolis would be an example of this. As and how the vision of the internet, A. I., and robots started to become a reality, all those distant futures and crazy ramblings started to seem more real.

The genre of Cyberpunk gained more fan following as they did not seem wild anymore. While our society is far from dystopian and the A. I. have not taken over the world, cyberpunk movies give us a peek into the not-so-distant future.

To help you quench your thirst for new and more enjoyable genres, ENTOIN has created this list of the most popular cyberpunk films that will tickle your fancy and rev up your imagination.

1

Metropolis

Metropolis
Not Rated
imdb icon8.3
IMDb Rating8.3
Rotten Tomatoes Rating97
Metacritic Rating98

DramaSci-Fi

Director:

Fritz Lang

Release Date:

Sun Mar 13 1927

Star Cast:

Brigitte Helm, Alfred Abel, Gustav Fröhlich

Budget:

DEM 6,000,000 (estimated)

Box Office (Worldwide):

$1,349,711

Direction
Average
Visual
Average
Cinematography
Average
Screenplay
Average
Casting
Average
Sound
Average

"Metropolis" is a groundbreaking 1927 film that captures the spirit of cyberpunk long before modern technology like computers, virtual reality, or cyberspace existed. Its visionary approach has made it a defining classic of the genre.

The story unfolds in a dystopian city where the privileged upper class enjoys lives of luxury powered by elaborate machines, maintained by the oppressed working masses far below the surface.

The city's prosperity relies entirely on this exploited labor force, who toil in harsh conditions without rights or recognition, while the elite remain oblivious to their suffering.

When the workers begin to stage an uprising, the city's authoritarian leader resorts to chaos and repression in an attempt to preserve his grip on power at any cost.

Directed by Fritz Lang and based on Thea von Harbou's novel, "Metropolis" champions the message: "The mediator between the head and the hands must be the heart," emphasizing the need for compassion and unity.

 

2

The Terminator

The Terminator
R
imdb icon8.1
IMDb Rating8.1
Rotten Tomatoes Rating100
Metacritic Rating84

ActionSci-Fi

Director:

James Cameron

Release Date:

Fri Oct 26 1984

Star Cast:

Arnold Schwarzenegger, Linda Hamilton, Michael Biehn

Budget:

$6,400,000 (estimated)

Box Office (Worldwide):

$78,371,200

Direction
Average
Visual
Average
Cinematography
Average
Screenplay
Average
Casting
Average
Sound
Average

"The Terminator" is the groundbreaking first entry in the iconic Terminator franchise, which ultimately led to multiple sequels. Conceived by Gale Anne Hurd and James Cameron—who also directed—the film became a cultural phenomenon upon its release in 1984.

This movie launched both Arnold Schwarzenegger and James Cameron into Hollywood stardom. Its story revolves around Skynet, a vast corporation responsible for developing advanced robotics and artificial intelligence technologies.

Set in a dystopian future, Skynet’s AI becomes self-aware and declares war on humanity. To secure their dominance, Skynet sends a deadly cyborg assassin—the T-800—back to the past to eliminate John Connor, the leader of the human resistance.

Arnold Schwarzenegger famously immersed himself in the role of the Terminator by keeping his distance from co-stars Linda Hamilton and Michael Biehn to preserve his character’s menacing persona. Remarkably, he speaks only 14 lines in the entire film, adding to the character’s chilling presence.

 

3
Quiz about Brazil

Brazil

Brazil
R
imdb icon7.9
IMDb Rating7.9
Rotten Tomatoes Rating98
Metacritic Rating84

DramaSci-FiThriller

Director:

Terry Gilliam

Release Date:

Wed Dec 18 1985

Star Cast:

Jonathan Pryce, Kim Greist, Robert De Niro

Budget:

$15,000,000 (estimated)

Box Office (Worldwide):

$9,949,953

Visual
Excellent
Screenplay
Very Good
Direction
Fair
Casting
Fair
Cinematography
Average
Sound
Average

"Brazil" is a darkly satirical film set in a dystopian future dominated by oppressive bureaucracy, rampant consumerism, and invasive technology. The story unfolds in a society gripped by totalitarian control, where individuality is stifled and surveillance is omnipresent.

At the center is Sam Lowry, a low-level government clerk trapped in the monotony of paperwork. Haunted by vivid dreams of saving a mysterious woman, he yearns to escape his bleak reality and find love amidst the chaos.

Sam’s world turns upside down when he meets his dream woman, who is unjustly accused of terrorism. Determined to save her, he embarks on a dangerous quest that brings him into direct conflict with the system’s rigid order.

Notably, Robert De Niro originally wanted to play Jack Lint but Terry Gilliam had already cast Michael Palin in the role, leading De Niro to portray the enigmatic Tuttle instead. Katherine Helmond embraced the role of Mrs. Lowry, fully aware of her character’s deeply flawed nature.

 

4

Blade Runner

Blade Runner
R
imdb icon8.1
IMDb Rating8.1
Rotten Tomatoes Rating88
Metacritic Rating84

ActionDramaSci-Fi

Director:

Ridley Scott

Release Date:

Fri Jun 25 1982

Star Cast:

Harrison Ford, Rutger Hauer, Sean Young

Budget:

$28,000,000 (estimated)

Box Office (Worldwide):

$41,712,525

Cinematography
Excellent
Visual
Good
Direction
Average
Screenplay
Average
Casting
Average
Sound
Average

"Blade Runner," directed by Ridley Scott, stands as a landmark in cyberpunk cinema. Inspired by Philip K. Dick's novel "Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep?", the film immerses viewers in a visually stunning, rain-soaked dystopia.

The story captured audiences worldwide, earning a dedicated cult following and inspiring the acclaimed sequel "Blade Runner 2049." In this future society, advanced androids known as replicants are engineered by the powerful Tyrell Corporation to perform dangerous or menial labor for humans.

Enforcing the fragile boundary between humans and replicants are specialized officers called Blade Runners. Their mission is to track down and "retire" rogue replicants who defy their creators and escape into human society.

The film centers on Deckard, a Blade Runner whose pursuit of a rebellious group of replicants leads him to Rachel, a replicant with whom he gradually falls in love. Deckard's relationship with Rachel challenges his perceptions and ignites a broader question about identity and freedom among replicants.

Rutger Hauer's portrayal of Roy Batty, the charismatic leader of the replicant resistance, is widely celebrated. His emotional "Tears in Rain" monologue, largely improvised on set, remains one of cinema's most memorable and moving moments.

 

5

Terminator 2: Judgment Day

Terminator 2: Judgment Day
R
imdb icon8.6
IMDb Rating8.6
Rotten Tomatoes Rating91
Metacritic Rating75

ActionSci-Fi

Director:

James Cameron

Release Date:

Wed Jul 3 1991

Star Cast:

Arnold Schwarzenegger, Linda Hamilton, Edward Furlong

Budget:

$102,000,000 (estimated)

Box Office (Worldwide):

$520,881,154

Visual
Excellent
Sound
Excellent
Cinematography
Good
Casting
Fair
Direction
Average
Screenplay
Average

"Terminator 2: Judgment Day," the blockbuster sequel to the original Terminator film, solidified the reputations of Arnold Schwarzenegger and director James Cameron as icons within the action and sci-fi genres.

This second installment builds on its predecessor's success by taking the story to new heights. Skynet's artificial intelligence program, far from being terminated, emerges stronger and more dangerous than ever.

After the traumatic events of the first movie, Sarah Connor finds herself institutionalized, while her son, John Connor, grows up separated from her and unaware of his crucial future role in humanity's survival.

In a twist of fate, two cyborgs are sent from the future—one with a mission to protect John, and the other driven to destroy him, setting the stage for an epic showdown.

Robert Patrick's portrayal of the relentless T-1000 was made all the more convincing through rigorous physical training. His carefully honed running technique allowed his character to appear eerily unstoppable, even managing to outrun Edward Furlong during intense chase scenes.

6
Quiz about Looper

Looper

Looper
R
imdb icon7.4
IMDb Rating7.4
Rotten Tomatoes Rating93
Metacritic Rating84

ActionDramaSci-Fi

Director:

Rian Johnson

Release Date:

Fri Sep 28 2012

Star Cast:

Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Bruce Willis, Emily Blunt

Budget:

$30,000,000 (estimated)

Box Office (Worldwide):

$176,506,819

Screenplay
Very Good
Casting
Good
Direction
Average
Visual
Average
Cinematography
Average
Sound
Average

Looper (2012) is a stylish entry in the cyberpunk genre. Set in a dystopian 2074, time travel is illegal but exploited by criminal organizations. The story centers on Joe, a looper assigned to eliminate targets sent back from the future.

The film masterfully explores themes such as free will, fate, and the far-reaching consequences of time manipulation. Its gritty, neon-soaked Kansas City backdrop highlights a society starkly divided between affluence and the marginalized, reinforcing its cyberpunk credentials.

Thanks to its compelling plot, rich visual style, and thoughtful examination of philosophical questions, Looper stands out as a must-watch for anyone interested in science fiction and cyberpunk narratives.

7

Ghost in the Shell

Ghost in the Shell
TV-MA
imdb icon7.9
IMDb Rating7.9
Rotten Tomatoes Rating95
Metacritic Rating76

AnimationActionCrime

Director:

Mamoru Oshii

Release Date:

Fri Mar 29 1996

Star Cast:

Atsuko Tanaka, Iemasa Kayumi, Akio Ôtsuka

Budget:

¥330,000,000 (estimated)

Box Office (Worldwide):

$918,738

Direction
Fair
Screenplay
Fair
Visual
Average
Cinematography
Average
Casting
Average
Sound
Average

"Ghost in the Shell" is an iconic Japanese anime film adapted from the acclaimed manga series by Masamune Shirow.

Regarded as a groundbreaking entry in the cyberpunk genre, this film has profoundly influenced renowned Hollywood filmmakers such as the Wachowskis and James Cameron.

Set in 2029, it imagines a world where cyborgs blend seamlessly with humans and the internet can be directly accessed through neural links.

In this era of advanced technology, a notorious hacker known as the Puppet Master disrupts society by infiltrating networks to steal data and commit cybercrimes.

Major Motoko Kusanagi, a skilled operative from the covert Section 9, is determined to apprehend the elusive hacker. Masamune Shirow chose the title "Ghost in the Shell" as a homage to Arthur Koestler's influential book, "The Ghost in the Machine."

8
Quiz about Blade Runner 2049

Blade Runner 2049

Blade Runner 2049
R
imdb icon8
IMDb Rating8
Rotten Tomatoes Rating88
Metacritic Rating81

ActionDramaMystery

Director:

Denis Villeneuve

Release Date:

Fri Oct 6 2017

Star Cast:

Harrison Ford, Ryan Gosling, Ana de Armas

Budget:

$150,000,000 (estimated)

Box Office (Worldwide):

$267,685,209

Visual
Excellent
Cinematography
Excellent
Sound
Very Good
Direction
Fair
Screenplay
Fair
Casting
Fair

Blade Runner 2049 is a visually stunning sequel to the iconic cyberpunk classic, Blade Runner. Returning characters like Officers Rick Deckard and Gaff play pivotal roles in this continuation of the original story.

The narrative unfolds several years after the events of the first film. Deckard and Rachel's child was secretly born, forcing Deckard to live apart to protect the child from those who might exploit this secret.

Meanwhile, the Replicant freedom movement intensifies, and the search for Rachel’s child becomes central to the plot. Wallace Corp, the successor to Tyrell Corp, seeks the key to replicant reproduction to further their plans for creating a replicant slave colony.

Director Denis Villeneuve initially intended to cast David Bowie as Wallace Corp's CEO. Following Bowie's untimely passing, Jared Leto was selected for the role, bringing a new dimension to the enigmatic character.

9
Quiz about Ex Machina

Ex Machina

Ex Machina
R
imdb icon7.7
IMDb Rating7.7
Rotten Tomatoes Rating92
Metacritic Rating78

DramaSci-FiThriller

Director:

Alex Garland

Release Date:

Fri Apr 24 2015

Star Cast:

Alicia Vikander, Domhnall Gleeson, Oscar Isaac

Budget:

$15,000,000 (estimated)

Box Office (Worldwide):

$37,394,629

Visual
Excellent
Direction
Very Good
Screenplay
Very Good
Casting
Very Good
Cinematography
Average
Sound
Average

Set within a secluded, state-of-the-art mansion, Ex Machina (2014) explores the fascinating world of artificial intelligence and its profound effects on humanity. This cyberpunk masterpiece examines a society on the brink of being overtaken by A.I., prompting viewers to reconsider what truly defines human nature.

The story follows Caleb Smith, a young programmer chosen by reclusive tech billionaire Nathan Bateman to participate in a daring experiment: evaluating the consciousness and emotions of Ava, a remarkably sophisticated humanoid robot. Caleb's encounters with Ava captivate him, blurring the lines between curiosity and obsession as he uncovers the depths of her intelligence.

The film poses thought-provoking ethical dilemmas about building and treating sentient machines, urging audiences to reflect on the complex consequences we face as technology challenges—and perhaps surpasses—the essential boundaries between humanity and artificial intelligence.

10

Minority Report

Minority Report
PG-13
imdb icon7.6
IMDb Rating7.6
Rotten Tomatoes Rating89
Metacritic Rating80

ActionCrimeMystery

Director:

Steven Spielberg

Release Date:

Fri Jun 21 2002

Star Cast:

Tom Cruise, Colin Farrell, Samantha Morton

Budget:

$102,000,000 (estimated)

Box Office (Worldwide):

$358,372,926

Direction
Excellent
Visual
Good
Sound
Good
Casting
Fair
Cinematography
Average
Screenplay
Average

"Minority Report" is based on the acclaimed short story by Philip K. Dick. The film was initially conceived as a sequel to "Total Recall," but production challenges, including bankruptcy, led to the project being shelved for a time.

Director Steven Spielberg later revived the idea, giving shape to this futuristic thriller. Tom Cruise stars as John Anderton, chief of the Precrime department, which uses individuals with precognitive abilities—known as "precogs"—to prevent crimes before they occur.

The story explores how precognition is linked to the drug Neuroin, a condition leveraged by Lamar Burgess to establish and control the Precrime unit. As the system's flaws are exposed, Anderton himself becomes accused, thrusting him into a battle to clear his name.

Tom Cruise took his role seriously, learning techniques for underwater scenes rather than relying on CGI. He also opted out of his usual salary, instead taking 15% of the film's gross earnings to help manage the movie's budget.

11
Quiz about The Matrix

The Matrix

The Matrix
R
imdb icon8.7
IMDb Rating8.7
Rotten Tomatoes Rating83
Metacritic Rating73

ActionSci-Fi

Director:

Lana Wachowski, Lilly Wachowski

Release Date:

Wed Mar 31 1999

Star Cast:

Keanu Reeves, Laurence Fishburne, Carrie-Anne Moss

Budget:

$63,000,000 (estimated)

Box Office (Worldwide):

$467,222,728

Visual
Excellent
Sound
Excellent
Cinematography
Good
Direction
Fair
Casting
Fair
Screenplay
Average

Widely regarded as a defining film of the cyberpunk genre, The Matrix launched a groundbreaking franchise with its first installment and three sequels that followed.

Written and directed by the Wachowskis, the film draws significant inspiration from Japanese cyberpunk manga, particularly the iconic series Ghost in the Shell.

The story follows Neo, a skilled hacker who, driven by his search for the truth, is contacted by the mysterious Trinity. She offers him a chance to discover the world’s hidden reality.

Through Morpheus and his crew, Neo learns that what he perceives as reality is actually a virtual simulation created by sentient machines to exploit human bio-energy.

For his role, Keanu Reeves lost fifteen pounds and shaved his head to authentically portray Neo’s emaciated, bald look inside the pods.

12

Akira

Akira
R
imdb icon8
IMDb Rating8
Rotten Tomatoes Rating91
Metacritic Rating67

AnimationActionDrama

Director:

Katsuhiro Ôtomo

Release Date:

Sat Jul 16 1988

Star Cast:

Mitsuo Iwata, Nozomu Sasaki, Mami Koyama

Budget:

¥1,100,000,000 (estimated)

Box Office (Worldwide):

$3,252,698

Direction
Average
Visual
Average
Cinematography
Average
Screenplay
Average
Casting
Average
Sound
Average

Set in a dystopian future, "Akira" is a groundbreaking Japanese anime film set in Neo Tokyo, thirty years after the devastation of World War III. The city, rebuilt from ruins, has become a chaotic metropolis controlled by corrupt officials, criminals, and an oppressive military regime.

Widely regarded as a masterpiece in the action, sci-fi, and cyberpunk genres, "Akira" is celebrated for its stunning animation and cultural impact, even inspiring the iconic Akira bike slide.

The story follows Tetsuo, a member of a notorious biker gang, who is captured by the military and subjected to secret experiments. These trials unlock powerful telekinetic abilities within him, abilities reminiscent of the mysterious figure known as Akira.

As Tetsuo's powers spiral out of control, he threatens to repeat the catastrophic events that once destroyed Tokyo. Only his friend, Shōtarō Kaneda, stands between Tetsuo and the city's utter destruction.

13

Upgrade

Upgrade
R
imdb icon7.5
IMDb Rating7.5
Rotten Tomatoes Rating88
Metacritic Rating67

ActionSci-FiThriller

Director:

Leigh Whannell

Release Date:

Fri Jun 1 2018

Star Cast:

Logan Marshall-Green, Melanie Vallejo, Steve Danielsen

Budget:

$5,000,000 (estimated)

Box Office (Worldwide):

$16,706,680

Direction
Average
Visual
Average
Cinematography
Average
Screenplay
Average
Casting
Average
Sound
Average

Upgrade, written and directed by Leigh Whannell, garnered widespread acclaim for its masterful storytelling, dark humor, and captivating plot. Critics and audiences alike praised the film for its unique blend of science fiction and suspense.

The story centers on Grey, a technophobe navigating a world increasingly dominated by technology, AI, and computer chips. Reluctant but desperate, Grey agrees to a revolutionary chip implant called STEM after a tragic car accident leaves him paralyzed and his wife dead.

With STEM, Grey regains his mobility but soon loses control over his own actions, as the line between man and machine blurs. The film's themes and its portrayal of an outside force controlling the protagonist have drawn comparisons to the comic book character Venom.

Interestingly, the lead actors in both Upgrade and Venom share a notably similar appearance, adding another layer of parallel between the two movies.

14

THX 1138

THX 1138
GP
imdb icon6.6
IMDb Rating6.6
Rotten Tomatoes Rating86
Metacritic Rating75

DramaSci-FiThriller

Director:

George Lucas

Release Date:

Thu Mar 11 1971

Star Cast:

Robert Duvall, Donald Pleasence, Don Pedro Colley

Budget:

$777,000 (estimated)

Box Office (Worldwide):

$2,437,000

Direction
Fair
Visual
Average
Cinematography
Average
Screenplay
Average
Casting
Average
Sound
Average

THX 1138, written and directed by George Lucas in his feature film debut, originated as a story he developed while attending the USC School of Cinematic Arts.

Upon release, the film received mixed reviews. However, following Lucas's massive success with Star Wars, THX 1138 attracted renewed interest and eventually gained a devoted cult following.

Set in a distant and oppressive future, the film explores a society where every aspect of life is tightly regulated by technology, machines, and androids. Citizens are forced to take mood-suppressing drugs that eliminate any desire for rebellion or change.

Amid this stifling regime, one man—THX 1138—begins to awaken to his own emotions and individuality. With the support of a woman, LUH 3417, he dares to challenge the system and seek a different path for himself and their society.

15

Gattaca

Gattaca
PG-13
imdb icon7.7
IMDb Rating7.7
Rotten Tomatoes Rating82
Metacritic Rating64

DramaSci-FiThriller

Director:

Andrew Niccol

Release Date:

Fri Oct 24 1997

Star Cast:

Ethan Hawke, Uma Thurman, Jude Law

Budget:

$36,000,000 (estimated)

Box Office (Worldwide):

$12,532,777

Direction
Average
Visual
Average
Cinematography
Average
Screenplay
Average
Casting
Average
Sound
Average

While Gattaca isn't a traditional cyberpunk film, it's best described as "biopunk"—offering a unique take on a dystopian future where technology and genetic engineering dominate society.

The story explores eugenics, depicting a future where genetic selection not only determines opportunities but also fuels systemic discrimination. Children born naturally are marked as "in-valids" and face lifelong prejudice.

The protagonist, Vincent Freeman, dreams of space travel but is denied due to his genetic status. Born outside the eugenics program, he faces rejection at every turn.

With ingenuity and the help of Jerome Morrow, Vincent manages to outsmart the system and realize his ambition to journey into space.

In a creative marketing campaign, the film's release was preceded by offers for real genetic engineering consultations—an idea that drew unexpected levels of interest.

16
Quiz about Dark City

Dark City

Dark City
R
imdb icon7.6
IMDb Rating7.6
Rotten Tomatoes Rating76
Metacritic Rating66

FantasyMysterySci-Fi

Director:

Alex Proyas

Release Date:

Fri Feb 27 1998

Star Cast:

Rufus Sewell, Kiefer Sutherland, Jennifer Connelly

Budget:

$27,000,000 (estimated)

Box Office (Worldwide):

$27,200,316

Screenplay
Fair
Direction
Average
Visual
Average
Cinematography
Average
Casting
Average
Sound
Average

"Dark City" is a neo-noir science fiction film set in a dystopian universe where night never ends. The city’s haunting darkness and perpetual shadows create an eerie atmosphere unlike any other.

The story centers on Murdoch, who awakens with no memory of his past or even his own identity. Soon, he discovers he is a suspect in a string of murders—and that a mysterious group of pale-faced figures called the Strangers are relentlessly pursuing him.

As Murdoch delves deeper into the mystery surrounding him, he discovers he possesses extraordinary psychokinetic abilities, allowing him to alter reality itself to his will. He must use these newfound powers to outsmart the Strangers and uncover the truth about his existence.

An interesting behind-the-scenes detail: the character Mr. Sleep was portrayed by Satya and Noah Gumbert—who were avid fans of The Rocky Horror Picture Show. To entertain the cast and crew during production, Richard O’Brien, who also starred in the film, would occasionally narrate the movie in the style of The Rocky Horror Picture Show.

17
Quiz about Total Recall

Total Recall

Total Recall
R
imdb icon7.5
IMDb Rating7.5
Rotten Tomatoes Rating82
Metacritic Rating60

ActionAdventureSci-Fi

Director:

Paul Verhoeven

Release Date:

Fri Jun 1 1990

Star Cast:

Arnold Schwarzenegger, Sharon Stone, Michael Ironside

Budget:

$65,000,000 (estimated)

Box Office (Worldwide):

$261,317,921

Visual
Very Good
Sound
Very Good
Direction
Average
Cinematography
Average
Screenplay
Average
Casting
Average

"Total Recall," directed by Paul Verhoeven, is inspired by Philip K. Dick's short story "We Can Remember It for You Wholesale." Set in a future where humanity has colonized Mars, this film presents a gripping tale of identity and memory. A 2012 remake revisited the same intriguing premise.

The story follows a construction worker on Earth who experiences vivid dreams of thrilling escapades on Mars. As he obsessively searches for answers, he faces increasing resistance from those around him, deepening the mystery of his dreams.

Eventually, he begins to unravel the true nature of his suppressed memories and the dark secrets behind the corporation responsible for Mars' dystopian society.

Notably, this film marked one of Sharon Stone's early roles. Director Paul Verhoeven admired her ability to seamlessly transition from ingénue to fierce fighter, a quality that later secured her a part in his film "Basic Instinct."

18

A.I. Artificial Intelligence

A.I. Artificial Intelligence
PG-13
imdb icon7.2
IMDb Rating7.2
Rotten Tomatoes Rating76
Metacritic Rating65

DramaSci-Fi

Director:

Steven Spielberg

Release Date:

Fri Jun 29 2001

Star Cast:

Haley Joel Osment, Jude Law, Frances O'Connor

Budget:

$100,000,000 (estimated)

Box Office (Worldwide):

$235,926,552

Casting
Very Good
Direction
Good
Visual
Good
Sound
Fair
Cinematography
Average
Screenplay
Average

"A.I. Artificial Intelligence," directed by Steven Spielberg, is inspired by Brian Aldiss's short story "Supertoys Last All Summer Long." The film explores the intersection of humanity and technology in a future shaped by climate change.

Spielberg not only directed but also wrote and produced the movie. Set in a world where androids are commonplace, the story centers on David, a childlike android uniquely designed with the capacity to love unconditionally.

David is adopted by a family whose biological son is cryogenically frozen. While the family initially embraces David, their feelings change once their real son returns, leading to David's abandonment.

Left longing for his mother’s affection, David embarks on a poignant quest to find her. For authenticity in his role as David, Haley Joel Osment trained himself to rarely blink, while Jude Law drew inspiration from Fred Astaire for his character's mannerisms.

19

Videodrome

Videodrome
R
imdb icon7.2
IMDb Rating7.2
Rotten Tomatoes Rating80
Metacritic Rating60

HorrorSci-FiThriller

Director:

David Cronenberg

Release Date:

Fri Feb 4 1983

Star Cast:

James Woods, Debbie Harry, Sonja Smits

Budget:

$5,952,000 (estimated)

Box Office (Worldwide):

$2,120,439

Cinematography
Fair
Direction
Average
Visual
Average
Screenplay
Average
Casting
Average
Sound
Average

"Videodrome" is a science fiction body horror masterpiece that explores the dark future of television and the impact of unregulated video programming on society.

The story follows Max Renn, the CEO of a struggling TV channel, who keeps his station afloat by airing increasingly controversial and disturbing material, including snuff films.

Max discovers a mysterious satellite broadcast that incessantly shows torture and murder. Despite warnings from Professor Brian O’Blivion, who believes the broadcast is used for political and ideological manipulation, Max decides to air the program.

He soon uncovers that these telecasts contain subliminal messages designed to coerce viewers into committing acts of violence and assassination. "Videodrome" is infamous for having three different endings filmed.

The theatrical release ultimately used the conclusion suggested by lead actor James Woods, giving the film a haunting finale.

20

Dredd

Dredd
R
imdb icon7.1
IMDb Rating7.1
Rotten Tomatoes Rating80
Metacritic Rating60

ActionCrimeSci-Fi

Director:

Pete Travis

Release Date:

Fri Sep 21 2012

Star Cast:

Karl Urban, Olivia Thirlby, Lena Headey

Budget:

$50,000,000 (estimated)

Box Office (Worldwide):

$41,037,742

Direction
Average
Visual
Average
Cinematography
Average
Screenplay
Average
Casting
Average
Sound
Average

Dredd is a gripping adaptation of the acclaimed Judge Dredd comic strip, originally published in the iconic UK magazine, 2000 AD.

The comic strip, created by John Wagner and Carlos Ezquerra, is set in a dystopian future where post-apocalyptic America has become a vast wasteland. Giant mega-cities sprawl across the ruined landscape.

In this chaotic world, Judges serve as judge, jury, and executioner, wielding absolute authority. Judge Dredd, the most formidable of them all, commands fear and respect throughout the land.

The film follows Dredd as he confronts a dangerous new drug, Slo-Mo, which alters perception and slows down reality to a mesmerizing crawl.

Karl Urban stars as Dredd, and it was revealed in interviews that Alex Garland not only wrote and produced the film, but is also considered by many to be its unofficial director.

21

A Scanner Darkly

A Scanner Darkly
R
imdb icon7
IMDb Rating7
Rotten Tomatoes Rating68
Metacritic Rating73

AnimationComedyCrime

Director:

Richard Linklater

Release Date:

Fri Jul 28 2006

Star Cast:

Keanu Reeves, Winona Ryder, Robert Downey Jr.

Budget:

$8,700,000 (estimated)

Box Office (Worldwide):

$7,659,918

Direction
Average
Visual
Average
Cinematography
Average
Screenplay
Average
Casting
Average
Sound
Average

A Scanner Darkly is a 2006 science fiction film directed by Richard Linklater. Set in a dystopian future, the story follows Bob Arctor (Keanu Reeves), an undercover detective who becomes addicted to a dangerous drug called Substance D while investigating its distribution.

Arctor's life becomes increasingly fragmented as he struggles to maintain his identity, as well as his grip on reality, due to the effects of the drug.

To conceal his true identity, Arctor wears a scramble suit, which constantly alters his appearance. As the line between his real and undercover personas blurs, Arctor's mental state deteriorates, leading to paranoia and confusion.

A Scanner Darkly is a visually stunning and thought-provoking exploration of identity, addiction, and surveillance, highlighted by its innovative use of rotoscope animation.

22

Archive

Archive
TV-MA
imdb icon6.4
IMDb Rating6.4
Rotten Tomatoes Rating79
Metacritic Rating67

DramaMysterySci-Fi

Director:

Gavin Rothery

Release Date:

Fri Jul 10 2020

Star Cast:

Theo James, Stacy Martin, Rhona Mitra

Box Office (Worldwide):

$243,279

Direction
Average
Visual
Average
Cinematography
Average
Screenplay
Average
Casting
Average
Sound
Average

Archive is a story of love, human nature, and reluctance to accept death. The story was written and directed by Gavin Rothery in his directorial debut effort.

The COVID-19 lockdown affected the film, and it did not get a wide release. It was released digitally, with only a few theaters playing it.

The story revolves around the efforts of a scientist living in a distant future. He is making a desperate and determined effort to build and perfect an A. I. robot that is as close to human nature as possible. However, his efforts seem to hide a secret motive behind his actions.

23

eXistenZ

eXistenZ
R
imdb icon6.8
IMDb Rating6.8
Rotten Tomatoes Rating74
Metacritic Rating68

HorrorMysterySci-Fi

Director:

David Cronenberg

Release Date:

Fri Apr 23 1999

Star Cast:

Jude Law, Jennifer Jason Leigh, Ian Holm

Budget:

$15,000,000 (estimated)

Box Office (Worldwide):

$2,856,712

Direction
Average
Visual
Average
Cinematography
Average
Screenplay
Average
Casting
Average
Sound
Average

eXistenZ is about the gaming world in the future, where organic gaming devices have replaced electronic devices. David Cronenberg wrote, directed, and produced this cyberpunk movie that failed at the box office but received positive reviews from critics.

Allegra Geller is a leading game developer of a new game titled eXistenz. She is attacked by a fanatic with an organic weapon while she is testing the game at a convention.

She narrowly escapes with the help of an intern, Pikul, but the only copy of the game is damaged.

Geller and Pikul must salvage the game before its release and find who is sabotaging the game. The film was produced by Hungarian producers, and Ian Holms’ character exclaims 'Köszönöm' when they get to operate from Allegra’s game pod.  

24

Ready Player One

Ready Player One
PG-13
imdb icon7.4
IMDb Rating7.4
Rotten Tomatoes Rating72
Metacritic Rating64

ActionAdventureSci-Fi

Director:

Steven Spielberg

Release Date:

Thu Mar 29 2018

Star Cast:

Tye Sheridan, Olivia Cooke, Ben Mendelsohn

Budget:

$175,000,000 (estimated)

Box Office (Worldwide):

$607,874,134

Visual
Very Good
Cinematography
Fair
Direction
Average
Screenplay
Average
Casting
Average
Sound
Average

Ready Player One is about a virtual reality game that could decide the ownership of the biggest company that created VR products and games.

The story is based on Ernest Cline’s novel of the same name. Wade Watts lives in a world that is hooked to virtual reality simulation at the cost of personal life, family, etc.

Everyone is connected to OASIS, a VR universe that offers all kinds of entertainment. When its owner dies, he starts a treasure hunt game that could decide the next owner of the company.

This causes a major sensation where everyone wants to win. This Steven Spielberg film has many pop culture references to films like Back to the Future, The Shining, and The Iron Giant.

Spielberg called the film one of his most difficult movies.

25
Quiz about The Matrix Reloaded

The Matrix Reloaded

The Matrix Reloaded
R
imdb icon7.2
IMDb Rating7.2
Rotten Tomatoes Rating74
Metacritic Rating62

ActionSci-Fi

Director:

Lana Wachowski, Lilly Wachowski

Release Date:

Thu May 15 2003

Star Cast:

Keanu Reeves, Laurence Fishburne, Carrie-Anne Moss

Budget:

$150,000,000 (estimated)

Box Office (Worldwide):

$741,847,937

Visual
Fair
Direction
Average
Cinematography
Average
Screenplay
Average
Casting
Average
Sound
Average

The Matrix Reloaded is the second installment of the Matrix trilogy. It brings back most of the cast from the first film.

It also introduces many new characters and takes the plot to its climax in the third film. In the first film, Neo was liberated from the Matrix, and he becomes The One who will save the humans from the machines.

In this film, Neo continues to work to liberate Zion from the threat of the machines. They realize that to save humanity, they need to meet the keymaker, defeat The Merovingian, and meet The Architect to broker a peace deal for Zion.

For the role of Seraph, The Wachowskis wanted to cast Jet Li, but he charged as much as Neo for the role.

Similarly, they wanted Sean Connery for The Architect, but he did not understand the concept of the film.

26

Strange Days

Strange Days
R
imdb icon7.2
IMDb Rating7.2
Rotten Tomatoes Rating67
Metacritic Rating66

CrimeDramaSci-Fi

Director:

Kathryn Bigelow

Release Date:

Fri Oct 13 1995

Star Cast:

Ralph Fiennes, Angela Bassett, Juliette Lewis

Budget:

$42,000,000 (estimated)

Box Office (Worldwide):

$7,959,291

Direction
Fair
Casting
Fair
Visual
Average
Cinematography
Average
Screenplay
Average
Sound
Average

Strange Days is a film written by James Cameron and directed by Kathryn Bigelow.

The film received polarized reviews. Some praised the film for its gritty atmosphere, performances of the lead cast, etc.

Other critics felt that the movie failed to comment on or condemn the violence and injustice of the racial violence and police role in the LA race riots in 1992.

Lenny is a retired cop who does the illegal trade of recordings of events along with emotions made with SQUID (SQUID is an illegal recording device).

He pines for his ex-girlfriend, who is a singer, and goes to meet her. At the same time, an unknown person drops a SQUID recording into his car, and this recording opens a can of worms as it uncovers the ugly truth of the riots.

Bigelow did not want the point-of-view scenes to be captured using traditional camera techniques. So, a special camera was made by Cameron's production company to be used in those sequences.

27

Tron

Tron
PG
imdb icon6.7
IMDb Rating6.7
Rotten Tomatoes Rating73
Metacritic Rating58

ActionAdventureSci-Fi

Director:

Steven Lisberger

Release Date:

Fri Jul 9 1982

Star Cast:

Jeff Bridges, Bruce Boxleitner, David Warner

Budget:

$17,000,000 (estimated)

Box Office (Worldwide):

$33,000,525

Visual
Good
Sound
Good
Direction
Average
Cinematography
Average
Screenplay
Average
Casting
Average

Tron is a story about different computer programs that work together to fight against the tyranny of MCP. The MCP is a master control program that has developed virtual intelligence and plans to take over other powerful programs to expand its control over the servers.

Kevin Flynn is a game developer who formerly worked for ENCOM and is disgruntled over the fact that his work was plagiarized by Dillinger.

In his attempt to find evidence against Dillinger, Flynn hacks into ENCOM servers. However, the MCP sucks Flynn into the server by digitizing him and plans to kill him within the system.

Tron is one of the earliest films ever to use computer-generated images or CGI technology. However, the film was disqualified from receiving the Academy Award for Special Effects as the academy felt that it was cheating to use CGI.  

28
Quiz about Elysium

Elysium

Elysium
R
imdb icon6.6
IMDb Rating6.6
Rotten Tomatoes Rating64
Metacritic Rating61

ActionDramaSci-Fi

Director:

Neill Blomkamp

Release Date:

Fri Aug 9 2013

Star Cast:

Matt Damon, Jodie Foster, Sharlto Copley

Budget:

$115,000,000 (estimated)

Box Office (Worldwide):

$286,140,700

Visual
Fair
Direction
Average
Cinematography
Average
Screenplay
Average
Casting
Average
Sound
Average

Elysium is a space station in the orbit of the Earth, which houses luxurious living arrangements for wealthy and powerful humans.

They have state-of-the-art technology, medicines, weaponry, and defense, while Earth languishes in poverty, overpopulation, disease, and drudgery. Society is a dichotomy of haves and have-nots that is exaggerated multiple times.

Max is a have-not who works in a factory in dangerous working conditions. He is exposed to dangerous amounts of radiation and needs to reach Elysium to save his life in five days.

To achieve this, a hacker offers him a deal to steal sensitive info from a wealthy CEO. The problem is that this info could jeopardize this coup d’etat attempt on Elysium.

Sharlto Copley portrays Agent Kruger as a South African. When he auditioned for the role, Copley offered an American, an Eastern European, and a British accent for the villain before finalizing with an Afrikaaner accent.

29

Alita: Battle Angel

Alita: Battle Angel
PG-13
imdb icon7.3
IMDb Rating7.3
Rotten Tomatoes Rating62
Metacritic Rating53

ActionAdventureSci-Fi

Director:

Robert Rodriguez

Release Date:

Thu Feb 14 2019

Star Cast:

Rosa Salazar, Christoph Waltz, Jennifer Connelly

Budget:

$170,000,000 (estimated)

Box Office (Worldwide):

$404,980,543

Visual
Fair
Direction
Average
Cinematography
Average
Screenplay
Average
Casting
Average
Sound
Average

Alita: Battle Angel is a 2019 cyberpunk action film directed by Robert Rodriguez. Set in a post-apocalyptic world, the story revolves around Alita (played by Rosa Salazar), a cyborg who is discovered and rebuilt by Dr. Dyson Ido (played by Christoph Waltz).

With no memory of her past, Alita embarks on a journey to uncover her true identity and becomes entangled in a dangerous world of bounty hunters and criminal overlords.

As Alita discovers her extraordinary abilities and combat skills, she becomes a beacon of hope for the oppressed people of Iron City.

The film combines stunning visual effects, exhilarating action sequences, and heartfelt performances to bring the manga series by Yukito Kishiro to life.

Alita: Battle Angel received positive reviews for its immersive world-building, compelling story, and Salazar's captivating portrayal of Alita, despite a mixed performance at the box office.

30

I, Robot

I, Robot
PG-13
imdb icon7.1
IMDb Rating7.1
Rotten Tomatoes Rating56
Metacritic Rating59

ActionMysterySci-Fi

Director:

Alex Proyas

Release Date:

Fri Jul 16 2004

Star Cast:

Will Smith, Bridget Moynahan, Bruce Greenwood

Budget:

$120,000,000 (estimated)

Box Office (Worldwide):

$353,133,898

Visual
Good
Direction
Average
Cinematography
Average
Screenplay
Average
Casting
Average
Sound
Average

I, Robot is based on the story by Jeff Vintar, who was inspired by the premise of the book I, Robot by Isaac Asimov.

Vintar used the premise of I, Robot to create the story of the film. The audience loved the film and made it a hit, but critics did not appreciate the plot line.

Dr. Lanning is the founder of U. S. Robotics, the foremost robotics company that has installed a robot in the house of every American.

The film is set in a future where robots are commonplace and pervade every walk of life. In this scenario, Dr. Lanning dies under mysterious circumstances that indicate that his robot Sonny has killed him.

However, a more sinister plot is afoot, and it can lead to a revolutionary change in the way we view and use these robots.

31

The Running Man

The Running Man
R
imdb icon6.7
IMDb Rating6.7
Rotten Tomatoes Rating66
Metacritic Rating45

ActionSci-FiThriller

Director:

Paul Michael Glaser

Release Date:

Fri Nov 13 1987

Star Cast:

Arnold Schwarzenegger, Maria Conchita Alonso, Yaphet Kotto

Budget:

$27,000,000 (estimated)

Box Office (Worldwide):

$38,122,105

Casting
Fair
Direction
Average
Visual
Average
Cinematography
Average
Screenplay
Average
Sound
Average

The Running Man is based on the novel of the same name written by Richard Bachman (a.k.a Stephen King).

The plot revolves around a game show titled The Running Man, which pits prisoners against gladiators in a race for freedom.

By 2019 America has degenerated into a police state where the government controls the media and entertainment. The most popular government-run TV show is The Running Man, where gladiator-like fighters, criminals, innocent civilians, etc. are forced to participate in a race to win freedom.

Although the film is based on a Stephen King novel, a lawsuit determined that The Running Man is a plagiarism of a French movie called Le Prix du danger, made in 1983.

32

Code 46

Code 46
R
imdb icon6.1
IMDb Rating6.1
Rotten Tomatoes Rating51
Metacritic Rating57

DramaRomanceSci-Fi

Director:

Michael Winterbottom

Release Date:

Fri Sep 17 2004

Star Cast:

Tim Robbins, Samantha Morton, Om Puri

Budget:

$7,500,000 (estimated)

Box Office (Worldwide):

$886,018

Direction
Average
Visual
Average
Cinematography
Average
Screenplay
Average
Casting
Average
Sound
Average

Code 46 is a futuristic movie that is slightly different from the rest. It is a British film written by Frank Cottrell Boyce and directed by Michael Winterbottom.

Code 46 is set in a dystopian future where everyone lives in densely packed cities referred to as inside, or in the open wilderness referred to as Outside.

Everything is strictly governed with close monitoring. People on the inside have access to all modern medical and technological facilities while those on the outside suffer without any.

William is tasked with looking into the travel documents to enter the city once it is discovered that they have been forged.

There he meets and falls in love with Maria, the forger, but their love is forbidden, and the couple pays a heavy price for it.

The language of this futuristic world is an amalgamation of many world languages like Spanish, French, Chinese, etc.

33

TRON: Legacy

TRON: Legacy
PG
imdb icon6.8
IMDb Rating6.8
Rotten Tomatoes Rating51
Metacritic Rating49

ActionAdventureSci-Fi

Director:

Joseph Kosinski

Release Date:

Fri Dec 17 2010

Star Cast:

Jeff Bridges, Garrett Hedlund, Olivia Wilde

Budget:

$170,000,000 (estimated)

Box Office (Worldwide):

$400,063,852

Visual
Good
Sound
Good
Casting
Fair
Direction
Average
Cinematography
Average
Screenplay
Average

TRON: Legacy is the sequel to the highly successful film Tron from 1982. The director of Tron, Steven Lisberger, came back in the sequel as the producer with Joseph Kosinski as the director.

The film follows a similar set-up as the first film, with a virtual reality world that houses the various computer programs as its citizens.

Sam Flynn is the son of Kevin Flynn, and he is angry with his father for his disappearance twenty years ago.

After being arrested,  Alan Bradley bails Sam and tells him about a pager message from his father. This takes him to the old gaming arcade, where Sam finds a system that is running and is sucked into the Grid.

Sam has to catch the culprit and escape. The gaming costumes used in the film cost $60000. They were fitted with lithium batteries to power the lights on the suits.

34

Demolition Man

Demolition Man
R
imdb icon6.7
IMDb Rating6.7
Rotten Tomatoes Rating62
Metacritic Rating34

ActionSci-FiThriller

Director:

Marco Brambilla

Release Date:

Fri Oct 8 1993

Star Cast:

Sylvester Stallone, Wesley Snipes, Sandra Bullock

Budget:

$57,000,000 (estimated)

Box Office (Worldwide):

$58,055,768

Direction
Average
Visual
Average
Cinematography
Average
Screenplay
Average
Casting
Average
Sound
Average

Demolition Man is a science fiction movie set in a future where there is no crime in the society and all the peaceful citizens are governed by strict and overbearing laws in the name of peace, and non-violence.

Many civil liberties are trampled upon, which leads to the rise of an underground movement that staunchly opposes the government.

John Spartan is an honest and determined police officer from 1996 who has a penchant for destroying property during his crime-fighting.

While trying to apprehend the notorious crime lord Simon Phoenix, he causes the death of the hostages. As a result, both Phoenix and Spartan are cryogenically frozen.

In 2032 when Phoenix escapes prison and starts to wreak havoc, they need to call back Spartan to catch him.

Stallone admitted to being terrified during the cryo-freezing scenes.

35

The Zero Theorem

The Zero Theorem
R
imdb icon6
IMDb Rating6
Rotten Tomatoes Rating48
Metacritic Rating50

ComedyDramaFantasy

Director:

Terry Gilliam

Release Date:

Tue Aug 19 2014

Star Cast:

Christoph Waltz, Lucas Hedges, Mélanie Thierry

Budget:

$8,500,000 (estimated)

Box Office (Worldwide):

$1,486,506

Direction
Average
Visual
Average
Cinematography
Average
Screenplay
Average
Casting
Average
Sound
Average

The Zero Theorem is about the discovery of the meaning of life in a futuristic world that is run by computers in virtual reality.

Qohen Leth is a computer genius who is assigned the task of solving the Zero Theorem, which will reveal the meaning of life and existence.

However, the theorem is notoriously difficult to solve. Leth begins to lose his mind and eventually smashes his computer as he is unable to solve it.

The Management is determined to get results and uses every means to motivate and induce Qohen Leth to continue.

The Zero Theorem is the last of the satirical dystopian trilogy made by Terry Gilliam. Matt Damon and Ben Wishaw were determined to be in the film, so they agreed to work for scale.

36

Wax, or the Discovery of Television Among the Bees

Wax, or the Discovery of Television Among the Bees
imdb icon7
IMDb Rating7
Rotten Tomatoes Rating79
Metacritic Rating-

DramaSci-Fi

Director:

David Blair

Release Date:

Mon Oct 21 1991

Star Cast:

Father Bessarion, David Blair, William S. Burroughs

Direction
Average
Visual
Average
Cinematography
Average
Screenplay
Average
Casting
Average
Sound
Average

Wax, or the Discovery of Television Among the Bees is a documentary drama made by an independent filmmaker, David Blair.

He wrote, directed, produced, and starred in the film. Wax, or the Discovery of Television Among the Bees has the distinction of being the very first film to be streamed on the Internet in 1993.

This documentary is about technological advancements in the military, defense, and warfare. It discusses the gulf war, drone warfare, and the possible future of technology using digital animation, found footage, and regular film footage.

The film takes a look at what the holds through the internet.

37

The Matrix Revolutions

The Matrix Revolutions
R
imdb icon6.7
IMDb Rating6.7
Rotten Tomatoes Rating34
Metacritic Rating47

ActionSci-Fi

Director:

Lana Wachowski, Lilly Wachowski

Release Date:

Wed Nov 5 2003

Star Cast:

Keanu Reeves, Laurence Fishburne, Carrie-Anne Moss

Budget:

$150,000,000 (estimated)

Box Office (Worldwide):

$427,344,325

Casting
Fair
Direction
Average
Visual
Average
Cinematography
Average
Screenplay
Average
Sound
Average

The Matrix Revolutions is the third installment in The Matrix trilogy created by the Wachowskis. One cannot watch The Matrix Revolutions individually and understand the film as it is a continuation of the plot line from the first two films, and in this film, we see an end to the Machine war.

Neo, Trinity, and Morpheus continue to chase down the Architect to release humans from the Matrix while the system tries to hold him back.

In the final film, Morpheus returns to Zion to participate in the showdown with Machines. Neo and Trinity set off on a suicide mission to negotiate with the machine city leader and end the rogue program called Agent Smith.

This film, like the other two Matrix films, has cutting-edge CGI, unbelievable stunts, superb martial arts choreography, and a gripping narrative.

38

Fortress

Fortress
R
imdb icon5.9
IMDb Rating5.9
Rotten Tomatoes Rating38
Metacritic Rating48

ActionCrimeSci-Fi

Director:

Stuart Gordon

Release Date:

Fri Sep 3 1993

Star Cast:

Christopher Lambert, Loryn Locklin, Kurtwood Smith

Budget:

$8,000,000 (estimated)

Box Office (Worldwide):

$6,739,141

Direction
Average
Visual
Average
Cinematography
Average
Screenplay
Average
Casting
Average
Sound
Average

Fortress is set in a futuristic prison where a powerful computer system controls all prisoners with an iron fist.

The computer system called Zed-10, not only manages security but also closely monitors inmates using CCTVs. It also monitors their dreams and through implants, serves severe physical and mental pain.

Brennick and his wife break the law of the one-child policy by going for their second child. While escaping to Mexico, they are caught and sent to a private prison called the Fortress for 31 years.

Brennick is anxious to leave prison because his wife is about to give birth. The film had an original budget of $70 million as they wanted to cast Arnold Schwarzenegger.

However, he backed out of the film, and the budget was cut down to $12 million. It did well and earned $48 million worldwide.

39

Hackers

Hackers
PG-13
imdb icon6.2
IMDb Rating6.2
Rotten Tomatoes Rating31
Metacritic Rating46

CrimeDramaRomance

Director:

Iain Softley

Release Date:

Fri Sep 15 1995

Star Cast:

Jonny Lee Miller, Angelina Jolie, Jesse Bradford

Budget:

$20,000,000 (estimated)

Box Office (Worldwide):

$7,563,728

Direction
Average
Visual
Average
Cinematography
Average
Screenplay
Average
Casting
Average
Sound
Average

Hackers is a cult classic set during the early days of the internet. The hacker community that is depicted in this film had ideals and manifestos that adhered to simple curiosity as the motivating factor.

Crime and malfeasance were rejected as the motivation. Dade, or Crash Override, is an ethical hacker who already has a charge sheet from a childhood offense.

In high school, he meets with a group of young and talented hackers, and as his luck would have it, one of his friends lands in trouble with the Secret Service.

It is time for Dade and his hacker friends to rise and catch the original criminal to rescue his friend.

Johnny Lee Miller and Angelina Jolie met during the filming of this movie and fell in love. They married after the film was released and divorced four years later.

40

The Thirteenth Floor

The Thirteenth Floor
R
imdb icon7
IMDb Rating7
Rotten Tomatoes Rating30
Metacritic Rating36

MysterySci-FiThriller

Director:

Josef Rusnak

Release Date:

Fri May 28 1999

Star Cast:

Craig Bierko, Gretchen Mol, Armin Mueller-Stahl

Budget:

$16,000,000 (estimated)

Box Office (Worldwide):

$18,564,088

Direction
Average
Visual
Average
Cinematography
Average
Screenplay
Average
Casting
Average
Sound
Average

The Thirteenth Floor is set in the world of virtual reality simulation games. The plot is based on the novel Simulacron-3 written by Daniel F. Galouye. The film was met with negative reviews that said that the plot was confusing but praised the visuals.

The film starts in 1999 when a gaming company develops a virtual reality simulation game, that is set in 1937 America.

Before the game can be released, the owner of the company dies, and the next heir becomes the prime suspect.

Although he appears innocent, all evidence points to him. After a lengthy and confusing game of cat and mouse, the truth is revealed.

The film was released in 1999 along with The Matrix, which was also a virtual reality simulation movie. The film was nominated for visuals, but The Matrix won the awards.

41

The Lawnmower Man

The Lawnmower Man
R
imdb icon5.4
IMDb Rating5.4
Rotten Tomatoes Rating37
Metacritic Rating42

HorrorSci-Fi

Director:

Brett Leonard

Release Date:

Fri Mar 6 1992

Star Cast:

Jeff Fahey, Pierce Brosnan, Jenny Wright

Budget:

$10,000,000 (estimated)

Box Office (Worldwide):

$32,100,816

Direction
Average
Visual
Average
Cinematography
Average
Screenplay
Average
Casting
Average
Sound
Average

The Lawnmower Man is about a gardener who becomes the research subject of a scientist experimenting with ways to enhance the human brain’s capacity to understand.

Dr. Larry Angelo is a scientist who picks his simple-minded gardener, Jobe Smith, to experiment on. Dr. Angelo manages to successfully improve Jobe Smith’s intelligence with psychoactive drugs and virtual reality.

However, the trouble starts when Jobe decides to take over the experiment. He decides to make himself the digital god.

The film script was created from Stephen King’s Lawnmower Man and another script called CyberGod. However, King sued the producers to have his name removed from the credits of the film.

42

Nirvana

Nirvana
R
imdb icon6.1
IMDb Rating6.1
Rotten Tomatoes Rating67
Metacritic Rating-

ActionDramaSci-Fi

Director:

Gabriele Salvatores

Release Date:

Fri Jan 24 1997

Star Cast:

Christopher Lambert, Diego Abatantuono, Sergio Rubini

Direction
Fair
Casting
Fair
Visual
Average
Cinematography
Average
Screenplay
Average
Sound
Average

Nirvana is an Italian film that explores ways to overcome loss and rejection through the religious concept of Nirvana.

In the film, Jimi is a game developer who creates a new game for Okasama Star, where Solo is the main character of the game.

Due to a computer virus, Solo gains sentience and pleads with Jimi to kill his character and delete the game.

Solo says he cannot continue suffering and dying multiple times in the game. Jimi understands his pain due to the loss of his girlfriend.

The rest of the movie is about how Jimi and his friends infiltrate the main servers of Okasama Star and delete the game.

The movie’s promotional poster uses an image of Goddess Kali from Hinduism as a representative of power, time, destruction, and death.

43

Virtuosity

Virtuosity
R
imdb icon5.5
IMDb Rating5.5
Rotten Tomatoes Rating32
Metacritic Rating39

ActionCrimeSci-Fi

Director:

Brett Leonard

Release Date:

Fri Aug 4 1995

Star Cast:

Denzel Washington, Russell Crowe, Kelly Lynch

Budget:

$30,000,000 (estimated)

Box Office (Worldwide):

$24,047,675

Direction
Average
Visual
Average
Cinematography
Average
Screenplay
Average
Casting
Average
Sound
Average

Virtuosity is a futuristic crime thriller starring Denzel Washington and Russell Crowe. Both these actors and talented stars competed against each other for the Academy Awards on multiple occasions.

SID 6.7 is a virtual reality composite of more than 150 serial killers throughout history. He was designed to be a training simulation for LA police detectives.

However, this highly intelligent and psychotic character has attached himself to nanotechnology to escape into the real world. Now, it is the responsibility of Parker Barnes to apprehend him and end his terror reign.

The CG work on this film was rendered by pure vector calculations. It was considered state-of-the-art technology. However, compared to the CG work on Jurassic Park, it appeared tacky and primitive.

44

Bird on a Wire

Bird on a Wire
PG-13
imdb icon6
IMDb Rating6
Rotten Tomatoes Rating25
Metacritic Rating36

ActionComedy

Director:

John Badham

Release Date:

Fri May 18 1990

Star Cast:

Mel Gibson, Goldie Hawn, David Carradine

Budget:

$20,000,000 (estimated)

Box Office (Worldwide):

$138,697,012

Direction
Average
Visual
Average
Cinematography
Average
Screenplay
Average
Casting
Average
Sound
Average

World On A Wire is a German cyberpunk movie that is adapted from the novel Simulacron-3 by Daniel F. Galouye. The same theme was used in 1999 to make The Thirteenth Floor.

However, where The Thirteenth Floor depended on the action aspect of the story, World On A Wire depicted the philosophy and human aspects of the story.

A supercomputer houses the latest version of a simulation game that has over 9000 types of human characters. The program's technical director is on the verge of a discovery when he disappears.

This leads to suspicion falling on his successor. It slowly dawns on him that they are all a part of a simulation themselves, and their world is not real.

45

Burst City

Burst City
imdb icon6
IMDb Rating6
Rotten Tomatoes Rating53
Metacritic Rating-

ActionDramaMusic

Director:

Gakuryû Ishii

Release Date:

Sat Mar 13 1982

Star Cast:

Takanori Jinnai, Shinya Ohe, Yuto Iseta

Direction
Average
Visual
Average
Cinematography
Average
Screenplay
Average
Casting
Average
Sound
Average

Burst City is a Japanese action thriller set in a dystopian future where the police and the government use technology to force and subjugate the citizens.

The film plot revolves around two separate focus points. One is a nuclear power plant, and the other is a murder case.

The citizens of Tokyo city are divided into strict classes, and the people spend time racing cars, partying, and brawling.

When they are informed that a new nuclear power plant will be built there, they protest and fight back through their punk rock music battles.

At the same time, a mute boy and his friend are chasing down Yakuza members who killed his brother.

Both groups join together after realizing that the businessmen behind the nuclear power plant are the same ones who killed the brother.

All forces join hands to fight back against corruption.

46

Mute

Mute
TV-MA
imdb icon5.5
IMDb Rating5.5
Rotten Tomatoes Rating21
Metacritic Rating35

MysterySci-FiThriller

Director:

Duncan Jones

Release Date:

Fri Feb 23 2018

Star Cast:

Alexander Skarsgård, Paul Rudd, Justin Theroux

Direction
Average
Visual
Average
Cinematography
Average
Screenplay
Average
Casting
Average
Sound
Average

Mute is the sequel to Moon and is also referred to as Moon II. The story is based on the graphic novel Madi: Once Upon A Time In The Future.

The film is set in the future where two surgeons run an illegal business of prostitution, cybernetic surgeries, etc.

A mute bartender falls in love with a waitress, but she is connected to one of the surgeons in this illegal business.

This drags the mute bartender into its fold till his life is threatened. The film was panned by critics and unfavorably compared to Blade Runner.

The film is directed by Duncan Jones, the son of David Bowie. He has dedicated this film to his father.

47

Johnny Mnemonic

Johnny Mnemonic
R
imdb icon5.6
IMDb Rating5.6
Rotten Tomatoes Rating18
Metacritic Rating36

ActionDramaSci-Fi

Director:

Robert Longo

Release Date:

Fri May 26 1995

Star Cast:

Keanu Reeves, Dolph Lundgren, Dina Meyer

Budget:

$26,000,000 (estimated)

Box Office (Worldwide):

$19,075,720

Direction
Average
Visual
Average
Cinematography
Average
Screenplay
Average
Casting
Average
Sound
Average

Johnny Mnemonic is a film based on the novel of the same name by William Gibson. The film is set in 2021 when more than half the world is addicted to the internet and suffers from Nerve Attenuation Syndrome.

The megacorporations that dominate the world perpetuate the condition. Johnny Mnemonic has a cybernetic brain implant that has all the information and knowledge that could blow the lid off the truth.

He has to deliver this package as soon as possible, as he becomes the target of megacorporations and conspiracy theorists.

In a scene at Crazy Bob's Computer Store, Mnemonic appears to be ordering an iPhone, which had not yet been created at the time of the film.

48

Screamers

Screamers
R
imdb icon6.3
IMDb Rating6.3
Rotten Tomatoes Rating29
Metacritic Rating-

HorrorSci-FiThriller

Director:

Christian Duguay

Release Date:

Fri Jan 26 1996

Star Cast:

Peter Weller, Roy Dupuis, Jennifer Rubin

Budget:

$20,000,000 (estimated)

Box Office (Worldwide):

$5,711,695

Direction
Average
Visual
Average
Cinematography
Average
Screenplay
Average
Casting
Average
Sound
Average

Screamers is set in a distant future where man has explored the universe and located alien life forms. To protect humans from alien life, we created an army of robots called Autonomous Mobile Swords, which are self-repairing and replicating robots.

With them, man has traveled to Sirius 6B to broker a peace deal. The commanding officer of the unit is disheartened to learn that the powers that be have double-crossed them, and the only way to survive is to form a new alliance with New Economic Black.

The problem is that the AMS or Screamers unit is spread across the planet, and they are not discriminating between aliens and humans before killing them.

The film is inspired by the short story titled Second Variety by Philip K. Dick. He is the writer of novels that were adapted into films like Minority Report, A Scanner Darkly, Blade Runner, etc.

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