The science fiction genre boasts an impressive array of films, exploring themes from time travel to artificial intelligence. With countless titles available, it can be challenging for viewers to discern which films truly deserve their attention. Many quality films do not receive the recognition they merit, often going unnoticed among more mainstream offerings. For those seeking something unique, here are five underrated sci-fi movies currently streaming on Prime Video.
‘Mickey 17’
Released in 2023, ‘Mickey 17’ is a thought-provoking film directed by the acclaimed Bong Joon Ho and features prominent actor Robert Pattinson. The narrative revolves around Mickey, an “expendable” worker assigned to undertake perilous missions. Each time he perishes, he is regenerated with most of his memories intact. This system functions adequately until an error results in multiple versions of Mickey existing simultaneously. The film delves into themes of identity and purpose, interspersed with dark humor. Despite its star-studded cast, which includes Naomi Ackie, Steven Yeun, Toni Collette, and Mark Ruffalo, it has not received the widespread attention one might expect.
‘Coherence’
Released in 2013, ‘Coherence’ is a low-budget thriller that showcases the potential of an engaging concept. Directed by James Ward Byrkit and featuring performances by Emily Baldoni and Maury Sterling, the film follows a group of friends whose dinner party takes a bizarre turn when a comet passes overhead. Following a sudden power outage, unsettling inconsistencies begin to arise, leaving both the characters and viewers questioning reality. The film’s ability to maintain tension with minimal resources—using a single location and largely improvised performances—demonstrates that creativity can triumph over budget constraints.
‘Synchronic’
In the 2019 release ‘Synchronic’, actors Anthony Mackie and Jamie Dornan portray two paramedics in New Orleans who respond to a series of overdose cases linked to a new designer drug. This substance, called Synchronic, creates bizarre effects that challenge the characters’ understanding of reality. As they investigate the drug’s origins, the narrative becomes increasingly unsettling. While not a light-hearted film, its compelling themes resonate long after viewing, prompting deep reflection on the implications of substance use and human experience.
‘The Vast of Night’
Released in 2019, ‘The Vast of Night’ is an independent film directed by Andrew Patterson that transports viewers to a small New Mexico town in the 1950s. The story follows a young switchboard operator and a late-night radio DJ as they investigate a mysterious audio frequency. The film’s tension builds gradually, drawing inspiration from real events such as the Kecksburg UFO incident. Its stylish execution and atmospheric storytelling make it an underrated gem that deserves greater visibility among sci-fi enthusiasts.
‘Infinity Chamber’
The 2016 film ‘Infinity Chamber’ is a minimalist thriller from writer-director Travis Milloy. Despite its limited distribution, it has gained attention through streaming platforms. Centered around a man trapped in a futuristic prison controlled by an artificial intelligence, the film unfolds as a complex puzzle that keeps audiences guessing. Its thought-provoking themes about technology and autonomy remain relevant, making it a worthwhile viewing experience.
These five films, available on Prime Video, offer a diverse range of narratives and styles within the science fiction genre. Each presents unique storytelling that invites viewers to explore complex themes, often overlooked in mainstream cinema.
