Since 2020, the cinematic landscape has been graced with some of the most imaginative and thrilling science fiction and fantasy films of the 21st century. When these two genres collide, they create the exhilarating hybrid known as science fantasy—a realm where advanced technology meets ancient magic, and where the boundaries of reality are delightfully blurred. Over the past six years, this genre has produced a treasure trove of unforgettable movies, from underrated superhero spectacles to Oscar-winning masterpieces.
Here are the six best science fantasy films released since 2020, ranked for your viewing pleasure.
6. Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings (2021)
While superhero films often straddle the line between sci-fi and fantasy, few embrace the science fantasy label as wholeheartedly as Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings. Directed by Destin Daniel Cretton, this Marvel Cinematic Universe entry transforms a once-obscure comic book character into a global icon. The film seamlessly blends futuristic technology with ancient Chinese folklore, featuring mythical creatures, magical rings, and breathtaking martial arts sequences. It's a riveting blockbuster that deserves far more acclaim than it receives, and it stands as one of the best superhero movies of the last decade.
5. Nimona (2023)
Based on ND Stevenson's acclaimed graphic novel, Nimona is a Netflix original that masterfully fuses medieval fantasy with retro-futuristic sci-fi. The story follows a shapeshifting teen who teams up with a disgraced knight, delivering a heartfelt and hilarious adventure that champions empathy and self-acceptance. With its stunning animation, witty humor, and refreshing LGBTQ+ representation, Nimona is a must-watch for fans of both genres. It's a joyful celebration of individuality and the power of being true to oneself.
4. Frankenstein (2025)
Guillermo del Toro, the modern maestro of dark fantasy, brings his unique vision to Mary Shelley's classic tale in Frankenstein. This 2025 Netflix film reimagines the story with a deeply personal and philosophical approach, exploring themes of hubris, loneliness, and the human condition. Del Toro's signature gothic aesthetic infuses the narrative with a supernatural, quasi-mythical quality that elevates it beyond a simple monster movie. It's a poignant and visually stunning addition to the science fantasy genre, proving that even the oldest stories can be reborn with fresh relevance.
3. Palm Springs (2020)
Time loop rom-coms might be a dime a dozen, but Palm Springs stands out as a sparkling gem. Directed by Max Barbakow and starring Andy Samberg and Cristin Milioti, this film puts a delightful twist on the genre. It's a hilarious and existential exploration of love, fate, and the meaning of life, wrapped in a time-bending narrative that doesn't bother with tedious explanations. The chemistry between the leads is electric, and the film's philosophical undertones give it surprising depth. It's a perfect blend of sci-fi, fantasy, and romance that will leave you smiling.
2. Everything Everywhere All at Once (2022)
Few films have captured the sheer audacity and emotional resonance of Everything Everywhere All at Once. This mind-bending multiverse adventure follows Evelyn Wang, a laundromat owner who discovers she must connect with alternate versions of herself to save the multiverse. Directed by Daniel Kwan and Daniel Scheinert, the film is a whirlwind of genre-bending chaos, blending sci-fi concepts with martial arts, absurdist humor, and profound family drama. It's a cinematic triumph that earned multiple Academy Awards, including Best Picture, and remains a landmark in modern science fantasy.
1. Poor Things (2023)
Topping our list is Yorgos Lanthimos's Poor Things, a visually stunning and intellectually provocative masterpiece. Emma Stone delivers a career-defining performance as Bella Baxter, a woman brought back to life with an infant's mind and a boundless curiosity. Set in a whimsical, steampunk-inspired world, the film blends Victorian aesthetics with fantastical science, creating a unique and immersive experience. It's a bold, unapologetic exploration of identity, freedom, and the human experience, earning it critical acclaim and multiple Oscar wins. Poor Things is the pinnacle of science fantasy in the 2020s, a film that challenges and delights in equal measure.
These six films represent the best of what science fantasy has to offer, each pushing the boundaries of storytelling and imagination. Whether you're a fan of epic adventures, intimate dramas, or laugh-out-loud comedies, there's something here for everyone. So grab some popcorn and dive into these extraordinary worlds—you won't be disappointed.
