The Best Sci-Fi Movies Of 2021

The year 2020 was a rough one for world events but a great one for sci-fi movies. It saw the release of Hollywood blockbusters like "Tenet," indie hits like "The Vast of Night," and terrifying flicks like "The Invisible Man." In short, 2020 was a fantastic year for sci-fi ... but what does 2021 have in store?

Well, when it comes to worldwide health, we hope it's nothing like 2020. But when it comes to quality sci-fi films, 2021 is already shaping up to be a stellar 12 months. And perhaps more importantly, after a year where time seemed to become one long, repetitive nightmare, the movies on this list — whether intentionally or coincidentally — provide thoughtful ruminations on our current situation ... or perhaps just an escape from them. 

Updated on January 3, 2022: Much like UFOs and invading extraterrestrials, sci-fi films are constantly coming and going, so we've updated this list to show all the latest the genre has to offer. Some are independent flicks making a splash on streaming services, while others feature big stars and big budgets. Whether you want time loops, alternate universes, or plain old genre-blending, these are the best sci-fi films of 2021.

"Little Fish," which holds a 91% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, blends romance and drama with sci-fi. Released in theaters and on streaming services on February 5, 2021, director Chad Hartigan's movie is set in the not-too-distant future of a Seattle dealing with an epidemic of "neuro-inflammatory affliction," aka "NIA" — a quicker and more devastating Alzheimer's-like illness. Olivia Cooke ("Sound of Metal," "Ready Player One") and Jack O'Connell ("Unbroken," "Starred Up") star as Emma and Jude, a couple struggling with the effect of NIA on their relationship and society. "Little Fish" was filmed before COVID-19 hit and was to be shown at the canceled 2020 Tribeca Film Festival. It's underlying premise is coincidental but incredibly timely.

Entertainment Weekly's Mary Sollosi says that despite the subject matter, "'Little Fish' resonates mostly as a love story." She also praises the performances from Cooke and O'Connell, writing they "both bring the cool project a necessary warmth that sells their relationship, which is the real star here". Both Sollosi and Jordan Raup of The Film Stage note the film's resemblance to 2004's "Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind," though the film still has its own charms. Sollosi says the sci-fi trapping gives the film's "central question a poetic shape," while Raup notes that "the details of emotional bonds are given utmost priority in the story over extraneous exposition related to light sci-fi touches." In other words, if you're looking for a love story fit for these trying times, "Little Fish" might be the sci-fi film for you.

Take a little romance, take a little sci-fi, and take the premise of "Groundhog Day," and you've got "The Map of Tiny Perfect Things," which boasts a 76% rating on Rotten Tomatoes. The plot finds Kyle Allen as Mark, a smart teenager stuck in a time loop ... who then meets Kathryn Newton's Margaret, another teenager stuck in the same loop. The two then decide to focus on finding the tiny, perfect things of their day. It's a love story like 2020's "Palm Springs," except with more teenage angst.

Released on Amazon Prime Video on February 12, 2021, "The Map of Tiny Perfect Things" has been gathering good notices for its cast and its emotional resonance. Mike Ward at Should I See It calls it a "a detail-driven, meticulously crafted film that stands apart from its peers with two strong lead performances, a bit of a mischievous grin, and a heart firmly entrenched on its sleeve." Asher Luberto of LA Weekly says, "Director Ian Samuels has some fun with this carefree premise, infusing it with long takes and zippy montages," while Shani Harris of Culturess calls it "a new spin on young love that will stimulate your mind and touch your heart."

And if the cast looks familiar, Allen appeared in the 2018 season of "American Horror Story." And Newton is known for playing Abigail Carlson on the TV show "Big Little Lies" and Lucy in 2019's "Detective Pikachu," though those with long memories will remember her brief run as Colby Chandler in the now-defunct soap opera, "All My Children." Newton has also been cast as Cassie Lang in Marvel's "Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania," slated for release in 2022.

"Boss Level" hit Hulu back on March 5, 2021, and this sci-fi romp features a time loop, lots of action, video game aesthetics, and Frank Grillo playing a former special forces agent appropriately named Roy Pulver. Seriously, what more could you want?

As with the main characters in 2017's "Happy Death Day" and 2015's "Edge of Tomorrow," Pulver's loop involves reliving the day he's murdered. He has to figure out who killed him and why so he can end the loop and rescue his family. And to do so, he has to find Mel Gibson's Col. Ventor and avoid a cadre of killers along the way.

This action/sci-fi hybrid with a bit of mystery has a 74% rating on Rotten Tomatoes. The high-powered cast also includes Naomi Watts, Michelle Yeoh, and Ken Jeong. Director Joe Carnahan, working from a script he wrote with Chris Borey and Eddie Borey, reunites with Grillo, who had a supporting part in Carnahan's 2011 survival epic, "The Grey." 

Grillo, in fact, is drawing a lot of praise for his leading role in "Boss Level." Richard Roeper of the Chicago Sun-Times compliments Grillo's ability to carry the film, saying that "he pulls it off with a combination of brute force and light charm." Indiewire's Christian Blauvelt also gives Grillo high marks, saying the actor provides the film "a pulse" and that "he gets you to invest in Roy enough that, even without a controller in your hands, you never feel like you're simply watching someone else play a videogame."

Supposedly the last installment of Legendary's MonsterVerse, "Godzilla vs. Kong" holds a 75% rating on Rotten Tomatoes. Directed by Adam Wingard ("You're Next," "The Guest"), the movie features franchise newcomers Alexander Skarsgård, Rebecca Hall, Demián Bichir, and Brian Tyree Henry, with Millie Bobbie Brown and Kyle Chandler returning to the fray. "Godzilla vs. Kong" also introduces deaf actress Kaylee Hottle as Jia, an Iwi orphan under Kong's protection.

As for the plot, the Titans have been dormant in the three years since Godzilla defeated King Ghidorah. Plus, the Hollow Earth theory discussed in "Godzilla: King of the Monsters" has gained followers, and the scientific agency known as Monarch has been keeping tabs on Kong over on Skull Island. However, something unknown agitates Godzilla into attacking the mysterious Apex Cybernetic, and it's not long before Kong is being used to find the Hollow Earth's power source. These threads eventually converge when Godzilla's Kong-sense kicks in, exploding their ancient rivalry.

After its release in March 2021, reviews have been effusive regarding the kaiju action, with critic Peter Travers saying that "the clash of these titans is spectacular in every sense of the world." The Associated Press' Jake Coyle agrees, calling the film a "rock 'em-sock 'em monster-movie revival." Possibly the most ebullient praise comes from Matt Zoller Seitz, who writes that "Godzilla vs. Kong" just "might be the best studio film so far this year. If it isn't, it's for damn sure the most fun." 

The Netflix sci-fi flick "The Mitchells vs. the Machines" is a kid-friendly adventure that hit the streaming site on April 30. This comedy features the voices of Abbi Jacobson, Danny McBride, Maya Rudolph, and Michael Rianda — who also directed and co-wrote the script with Jeff Rowe — as the Mitchells, a family on a road trip. Unfortunately, their little vacation turns into an apocalyptic fight against a robotic revolution. The emphasis on technology-as-villain grounds the film squarely in sci-fi territory as the Mitchells, who've set aside their gadgets for an old-fashioned vacation, are thrust into a cellphone war. 

"The Mitchells vs. the Machines" has been quite the hit with critics, as it's certified fresh on Rotten Tomatoes with a 98% rating. It's also produced by the high-powered team of Phil Lord and Christopher Miller ("The Lego Movie," "21 Jump Street"). Bob Strauss of The San Francisco Chronicle calls the movie "a machine apocalypse for the whole family," while Slate's Sam Adams says that, despite the plot, the film "is surprisingly tech-positive." How's that? Well, The Guardian's Benjamin Lee says that Michael Rianda "makes an earnest stab at trying to offer up a balanced view of the pros and cons of iPhone culture. Rather than the easier and clumsier film he could have made scolding kids for swiping and tapping and missing out on real life, he shows that young digital creators are achieving incredible things and that, when used right, this form of connectedness can be a powerful force."

The simply named "A Quiet Place Part II," the long-awaited sequel to 2018's "A Quiet Place," had its theatrical-only release on May 28, 2021. And the creepy sci-fi flick was quickly certified fresh at Rotten Tomatoes, earning praise from critics and audiences alike.

Director/screenwriter John Krasinski's continuation of the Abbott family's story also provides a glimpse of the first day that the sonic aliens arrived, allowing the beloved actor to briefly reprise his role as Lee Abbott. But as for the actual plot, Emily Blunt returns as Evelyn Abbott, who journeys with her newborn infant and two older children (Millicent Simmonds' Regan and Noah Jupe's Marcus) in search of a new place to live because their farm is no longer inhabitable. And they eventually come across Cillian Murphy's Emmett, a friendly acquaintance briefly seen in the opening events of the film. Emmett, however, is now withdrawn and sullen, and our heroes don't know if they can trust him ... but they need his help.

"A Quiet Place Part II" has gotten praise for its superior use of tension and its tight script. Matthew Rozsa of Salon says that "the film is packed with visceral moments that stick to your ribs." And as Cary Darling of the Houston Chronicle pointed out, the sequel is "a crafty exercise in tension, editing, and sound design that ... never wears out its welcome." And while the performances from Blunt, Murphy, and Jupes are all incredible, Bloody Disgusting's Meagan Navarro has lavished praise on deaf actress Millicent Simmonds, saying that "this is above all Simmonds' show, and she nails it." So if you were worried about whether or not the sequel would live up to the first film, rest assured — it's a scary, silent treat.

Certified Fresh on Rotten Tomatoes, "Free Guy" stars Ryan Reynolds as the titular Guy, a man who greets his goldfish, gets coffee, and goes to his job at the bank. Once he's there, he talks with his best friend, security guard Buddy (Lil Rel Howery). He does this exact routine every single day.

However, Guy has no idea he's stuck in a predetermined loop as an NPC — Non-Playing Character — in a popular video game until he meets Molotov Girl/Millie (Jodie Comer) and becomes enamored. Millie wants to prove video game impresario Antwan (Taika Waititi) stole the game she developed with her friend, Keys (Joe Keery). Can Guy help Millie get proof before Antwan destroys the game — as well as Guy, Buddy, and all their NPC friends?

"Free Guy," directed by Shawn Levy from a script by Matt Lieberman and Zak Penn, is getting raves from critics. Charlotte O'Sullivan of The Standard praises the humor in the movie, saying it's "knowing rather than nasty and, even at its most surreal, avoids coming across as indulgent." USA Today's Brian Truitt calls it a "big, warm hug of a movie with plenty to love," while Robert Daniels of The Playlist writes, "'Free Guy' is a winner."

Filmed on an iPhone during the COVID-19 lockdown, the themes of the British film "Infinitum: Subject Unknown" are both timely and timeless. Written by married couple Matthew and Tori Butler-Hart and directed by Matthew, "Infinitum: Subject Unknown" stars Tori as Jane, an amnesiac woman trapped in a parallel world — and in a time loop. The film has cameos from Sir Ian McKellen as Dr. Charles Marland-White and Conleth Hill of "Game of Thrones" fame as Professor Aaron Östergaard, both of whom may have information that could help Jane regain her memory and return to her own world before time runs out.

Boasting a 75% score on Rotten Tomatoes, "Infinitum: Subject Unknown" is being praised for Tori Butler-Hart's performance. For example, Rachael Harper at SciFiNow writes that the actress, who's frequently alone on-screen, "shoulders that responsibility incredibly well," while Keri O'Shea of Warped Perspective says Butler-Hart's acting is pitched "perfectly given the situations unfolding around her, and she does most of it without saying anything." Critics have also been impressed by how the movie tackles its heavy and horrific themes, with O'Shea saying it's "a subtle, unconventional and often surreal take on the horrors which could be sparked by science," and Sarah Cartland of Caution Spoilers writing that the movie is a "chilling story about the expansion of human life."

So if you're looking for a sci-fi flick that's more on the intense side of things, then check out the film that Film Threat's Bradley Gibson calls a "scary, anxious thrill ride."

A basic "the meaning of true friendship" tale gets a digital upgrade in the animated feature "Ron's Gone Wrong." Lonely Barney (Jack Dylan Grazer) gets his very own B-bot named Ron (Zach Galifianakis). B-bots are advertised as a kid's "best friend out of the box," one that connects to all a kid's favorite apps. What could possibly go wrong? Well, Ron. Barney's father and grandmother (Ed Helms and Olivia Colman) can't afford the expensive companion, but they luck into one that's literally fallen off a truck. The damage from the fall causes Ron to act unlike any other B-bot, which soon comes to the attention of Bubble, the company that sells them. Bubble's COO, Andrew (Rob Delaney), isn't pleased, and it's not long before Bubble is after Ron to destroy him.

While it was overshadowed upon its release by larger films like "Dune" and "Halloween Kills," "Ron's Gone Wrong" impressed almost everyone who bought a ticket to see it. Angie Han at The Hollywood Reporter noted that what the film "lacks in daring imagination, it makes up for with endearing good humor, thoughtful cultural critique, and one heck of a cute robot." The Washington Post's Pat Padua praised the film's family appeal, noting it "has plenty of slapstick and potty humor for kids. But adults will also be intrigued by its frequently scathing (albeit somewhat conflicted) critique of consumerism." And Dan Jolin of Empire wrote that the film is amiable, amusing story of unlikely friendship, which is as aware of what makes people tick as it is of what makes tech troubling."

We're granting right up front that reviews for Marvel Studios' latest superhero epic, "Eternals," are not great. Sometimes, though, you have to disregard a lousy score on Rotten Tomatoes and go with your heart. Or in this case, the audience score, which is 80%.

Academy Award-winning director Chloé Zhao grounds this cosmic tale of a race of immortal beings in basic human emotions such as love and sacrifice. The ten Eternals arrive on Earth to defeat the Deviants, aliens who are hell-bent on destruction. Once that's done, the Eternals remain to observe and occasionally assist humanity throughout history, but they're instructed by their Celestial leader, Arishem, not to interfere in human affairs. Thousands of years of observing some of the worst of human behavior, though, begins to wear on some Eternals, and when Arishem finally reveals the Eternals' true purpose and nature, all hell breaks loose. 

The A-list cast includes names like Salma Hayek, Gemma Chan, Angelina Jolie, Brian Tyree Henry, and Kumail Nanjiani. And not all critics slammed the film. Nina Li Coomes of the Chicago Reader called "Eternals" a "genuine, delightful character development nestled inside of a complex and challenging narrative." And speaking in defense of the film, Peter Travers of ABC News said, "What you'll remember is the quiet at the heart of the storm and the intimate connections that Zhao values above spectacle. Different? You bet. But it's also what makes 'Eternals' unique and unforgettable."

In "The Matrix Resurrections," director Lana Wachowski returns to the dystopia of the Matrix. Keanu Reeves is back as Thomas Anderson, this time working as a famous game developer whose most popular creation involves the Matrix. But Mr. Anderson keeps flashing back to another life. While his therapist (a devilish Neil Patrick Harris) tries to keep him grounded in "reality," it's not long before Neo is back and eager to search for his true love, Carrie-Anne Moss' Trinity. Trinity believes she is Tiffany, a normal mother and wife. Can Neo wake her up?

"The Matrix Resurrections" could have been a soulless cash-grab. But instead, it's a deeply romantic and hopeful film that deconstructs nostalgia and explores complex ideas. Vox's Emily VanDerWerff praised the film for its nuanced portrayal of trauma. Noëlle D. Lilley of The Chicago Reader called it "a breath of fresh air in a time when reboots are a dime a dozen." Vulture's Angelica Jade Bastién wrote, "Lana Wachowski's first solo feature is a thrilling triumph," and added that "it feels emotionally expansive and intellectually sly."

Director Sion Sono's gore-soaked sensibilities are on full display in "Prisoners of the Ghostland." Nicolas Cage gives a bravura performance as Hero, a criminal who is forced by the Governor (Bill Moseley) of Samurai Town to rescue his kidnapped "granddaughter," Bernice (Sofia Boutella), from the mysterious Ghostland. Hero must also wear a booby-trapped suit that will explode if he doesn't return in five days. This unique movie mashes up science fiction, western grit, dystopic drama, horror, and samurai cinema into one completely unforgettable experience.

While some critics found this collision of genre a bit much, others praised "Prisoners of the Ghostland" for its audacity. The Independent's Clarisse Loughrey said, "Sono may indulge in madness, but it's not madness without reason." The film has also received kudos for its commitment to an out-there storyline. Meagan Navarro of Bloody Disgusting praised it as "a neon-drenched spaghetti western full of idiosyncratic humor and violent social messaging ... a triumph for bizarro cinema." Screen Daily's Tim Grierson praised Cage's performance as the "high-spirited" heart of the production. While it's not for the faint-hearted, "Prisoners of the Ghostland" is a thrill ride worth taking.