Seven of My Favorite Indie Sci-Fi Movies Available on Prime Video, Max, Hulu, and More.
Don't let these jewels slip away from you.
If you are looking for science fiction movies that will shake you out of the winter lethargy and spark your imagination as spring approaches, here is a selection of seven films you may not have seen or have hesitated to give a chance. These often-forgotten or underrated titles promise to rekindle your interest in the genre and provide stimulating visual material amid the vast universe of streaming platforms.
One of the recommended films is Aniara (2019), a haunting reflection on the dangers of space travel. The plot revolves around a spaceship that veers off course to Mars after being hit by space debris, leaving the passengers facing the harsh reality of never reaching their destination. This work, based on the poem by Swedish Nobel Laureate Harry Martinson, stands out for its hard science fiction approach and low budget. It is available on Hulu and Disney Plus in the U.S. and on BFI Player in the UK.
Another interesting title is Terminator: Salvation - Director's Cut (2009). Although it has been criticized by fans, its appreciation has improved over time, especially after the disastrous releases of Terminator: Genisys and Terminator: Dark Fate. This film features an experimental cyborg named Marcus Wright, and despite the absence of the iconic Arnold Schwarzenegger, it remains a chilling installment with a Skynet more terrifying than ever. You can find it on Max in the U.S. and Sky in the UK.
The Creator (2023) is another proposal you cannot overlook. Directed by Gareth Edwards, the film follows a former special forces agent, played by John David Washington, on his mission to find a mysterious artificial intelligence leader amid a war against humanity. Despite some narrative missteps, its cinematography and sound design are impressive, making it a good option for sci-fi lovers. It is available on Prime Video in the U.S., UK, and Australia.
For those who appreciate animation, Fantastic Planet (1973) offers a unique experience. This French film has become a cult classic that explores themes such as racism and animal rights through the interaction between tiny humans and their blue oppressors, the Draags. René Laloux's work is available on Max, The Roku Channel, and Plex in the U.S., as well as on Pluto TV in the UK.
Communion (1989) is another title that deserves attention. Based on Whitley Strieber's book, this unsettling tale features Christopher Walken as a writer who experiences alien abductions while at his cabin. Walken effectively conveys the confusion and fear of the character in his quest to understand his experiences. The film is available on Prime Video, Peacock, and other platforms in the U.S.
Melancholia (2011), directed by Danish filmmaker Lars von Trier, offers a profound allegory about mental health against the backdrop of an impending disaster, as a rogue planet approaches Earth during the wedding of two sisters. With standout performances by Kirsten Dunst and Charlotte Gainsbourg, the film is both moving and visually striking. You can find it on various streaming platforms in the U.S. and on Disney+ in the UK.
Finally, Greenland (2020) combines impressive special effects with a survival story when a family struggles to find shelter amid the impending impact of a comet. Starring Gerard Butler and Morena Baccarin, this film made a name for itself at the start of the pandemic and is available on Max, Prime Video, and Netflix in various regions.
