We're living in a golden age of sci-fi cinema. With massive epics like Project Hail Mary, the Dune movies, and animated wonders like The Wild Robot and Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse, the 2020s have already delivered some of the most brilliant science-fiction masterpieces ever. But the genre's strength isn't just in its flawless hits—it's also in the near-perfect films that capture the gravitas, spectacle, and cerebral might of sci-fi, even if they stumble a bit.
These movies—ranging from action epics to probing horror, underrated animated treats, and experimental indie gems—support the idea that the 2020s are the genre's golden era on the big screen. Here are 10 near-perfect sci-fi movies from the last six years, ranked.
10. The Creator (2023)
A compelling watch for its thematic insights and sheer spectacle, The Creator is both incredibly close to sci-fi perfection and quite a ways off. Set in a future where humanity is at war with artificial intelligence, it follows former soldier Joshua (John David Washington) as he is recruited to uncover a new weapon that could wipe out mankind. When he discovers it's an A.I. in the form of a child, he struggles to complete his mission.
Its original premise is supported by bold ideas, stunning visual effects, and engrossing world-building. However, it falters in character development and plotting, with an overly slow opening and a muddled ending. It's undeniably a great sci-fi movie—a treat of blockbuster grandeur imbued with mindfulness—but it never quite achieves perfection. Despite mixed reviews and box office failure, it has become a streaming sensation.
9. Crimes of the Future (2022)
Not for everyone, but Crimes of the Future is a peculiarly beautiful marriage of extreme body horror and piercing social commentary, epitomizing David Cronenberg at his best. In a future where humans have evolved to a synthetic environment, performance artist Saul Tenser (Viggo Mortensen) and his wife publicly display the metamorphosis of his organs. As they are tailed by an investigator, they learn Tenser's notoriety is being used by a group trying to expose the next step in human evolution.
It walks a fine line between grotesque gratuity and thematically loaded arthouse exuberance, but Cronenberg is assured in his ideas. Its exploration of mankind's integration with technology, the exploitative nature of the human body as art, and issues of surveillance and government control elevate it beyond shock value.
8. The Invisible Man (2020)
Recent years have seen remakes of classic horror titles that mold innate themes to comment on trending social issues. The Invisible Man is one of the best examples, turning H.G. Wells' story into a richly suspenseful meditation on the trauma of an abusive relationship. Elisabeth Moss stars as Cecilia, who fled her optics engineer ex, only to hear he committed suicide. As she struggles with sorrow and relief, she feels an ominous unseen presence, leading to a macabre suspicion that his death may not have been what it seemed.
Eerie, effective, and often excruciating, The Invisible Man is a snappy sci-fi thriller that loads a classic tale with modern sensitivities with impressive results.
7. Beyond the Infinite Two Minutes (2020)
A hidden gem from Japan, Beyond the Infinite Two Minutes is a sharp sci-fi comedy that puts every cent of its low-budget production to exceptional use. It transpires as a café owner discovers his TV can show images from two minutes into the future. Chaos ensues when he and his colleagues try to use it for self-gain.
With a runtime of just 70 minutes, it develops an infectious sense of momentum, with new disasters and twists coming at a frenetic rate. It adeptly juggles obscene, absurdist fun with well-crafted tension.
For more sci-fi horror thrills, check out HBO Max's Alien Franchise: The Perfect Sci-Fi Horror Weekend Binge.
6. Tenet (2020)
Christopher Nolan's Tenet is a mind-bending time inversion epic that pushes the boundaries of blockbuster filmmaking. The plot follows a secret agent (John David Washington) who must manipulate the flow of time to prevent a catastrophic attack from the future. With jaw-dropping practical effects, a complex narrative, and a thumping score, it's a near-perfect spectacle.
However, its dense plotting and muffled dialogue have divided audiences, keeping it just shy of perfection. Still, it's a must-watch for fans of ambitious sci-fi.
5. Mars Express (2023)
This underrated animated gem from France is a noir-infused sci-fi thriller set on a colonized Mars. It follows a detective and her android partner as they investigate a series of murders that reveal a conspiracy involving artificial intelligence and human augmentation. With stunning 2D animation and a gripping story, it's a near-perfect blend of style and substance.
Its only flaw is a slightly rushed third act, but it remains a standout in modern sci-fi animation.
4. Prey (2022)
The Predator prequel Prey is a lean, mean survival thriller set in the Comanche Nation in 1719. It follows Naru (Amber Midthunder), a skilled warrior who must protect her tribe from a technologically advanced alien hunter. With breathtaking action, minimal dialogue, and a strong female lead, it's a near-perfect addition to the franchise.
Its only misstep is a slightly predictable final showdown, but it's a masterclass in efficient storytelling.
3. Dune: Part One (2021)
Denis Villeneuve's Dune is a monumental adaptation of Frank Herbert's novel, blending epic scale with intimate character drama. It follows Paul Atreides (Timothée Chalamet) as his family takes control of the desert planet Arrakis, home to the most valuable substance in the universe. With stunning visuals, a stellar cast, and a haunting score, it's a near-perfect sci-fi epic.
Its only flaw is that it's only half the story, leaving viewers hungry for the sequel. But as a standalone, it's a triumph.
2. Everything Everywhere All at Once (2022)
This multiverse-hopping masterpiece from Daniels is a genre-defying blend of sci-fi, comedy, drama, and martial arts. It follows Evelyn Wang (Michelle Yeoh), a laundromat owner who discovers she can access the memories and skills of her alternate selves to save the multiverse from destruction. With its inventive storytelling, emotional depth, and dazzling visuals, it's a near-perfect film.
Its only flaw is a slightly chaotic middle act, but it's a wildly original and moving experience.
1. Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse (2023)
The sequel to Into the Spider-Verse is a breathtaking animated masterpiece that pushes the boundaries of visual storytelling. It follows Miles Morales as he journeys across the multiverse to save his loved ones from a new threat. With its stunning animation, complex themes, and emotional depth, it's a near-perfect sci-fi film.
Its only flaw is a cliffhanger ending that leaves the story unresolved, but it's a thrilling ride from start to finish.
For more near-perfect movies, check out 6 Near-Perfect Rotten Tomatoes Movies to Watch This Weekend.
