Ranked: Every Sci-Fi Movie Nominated for Best Picture

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In terms of films, science fiction serves as a realm where the improbable turns plausible, allowing for exploration and conjecture about the very essence of existence. This genre has captivated generations, whisking them off to distant galaxies, chilling them with grim depictions of dystopian futures, and astonishing them with representations of other dimensions. Time and again, it offers breathtaking cinematic masterpieces.

It’s not surprising that the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has consistently recognized the creativity and skill involved in producing science fiction films. Although some might associate the Oscars with historical dramas, character-centric movies, and biopics, sci-fi has remained a recurring contender for the Best Picture award. Ranging from A Clockwork Orange to Dune: Part Two, a total of nineteen films have been nominated in this category thus far, and here is their ranking in order.

19
‘Gravity’ (2013)

Under the joint leadership of Alfonso Cuarón as both writer and director, Gravity tells the story of Dr. Ryan Stone, embarking on her inaugural space voyage accompanied by seasoned astronaut Matt Kowalski. Following a disastrous event that annihilates their Space Shuttle in orbit, they are left stranded. With time running out due to dwindling oxygen levels and the ever-looming threat of gravity, they must push past their constraints and draw upon every ounce of their bravery to make it back home.

Combines Tension and Spectacle

The film “Gravity” is a truly remarkable work in the realm of science fiction, as it masterfully combines the intricacy of its plot with intense, heart-pounding moments to create a deeply impactful experience. The movie’s groundbreaking use of 3D and extended shots generates an engaging atmosphere, while the acting talents of Sandra Bullock and George Clooney lend depth and authenticity to the narrative. “Gravity” garnered ten nominations at the Academy Awards and ultimately won seven, with Alfonso Cuarón being honored as Best Director.

18
‘District 9’ (2009)

The movie “District 9” takes place in a grim, futuristic setting where extraterrestrials have landed on Earth seeking asylum instead of conquest. They’ve established their residence in a designated district in Johannesburg, South Africa. The narrative revolves around Wikus van de Merwe, an administrative official responsible for the forced displacement of these aliens. However, after encountering a strange alien substance, Wikus undergoes a transformation into an alien himself, and he must conceal his identity to survive.

A Sci-Fi Thriller with Brilliant Social Commentary

District 9 is a strong contender for Best Picture nomination due to its exploration of human prejudice and the devastating consequences of segregation within society. It transcends the typical action-packed sci-fi thriller genre by employing a documentary-style approach, featuring found footage elements and staged interviews, which adds an air of authenticity to its alien narrative. This film was one of the two sci-fi masterpieces nominated that particular year.

17
‘Don’t Look Up’ (2021)

As a devoted viewer, I can’t help but express my admiration for this underestimated, comedic yet poignant film that revolves around two unsuspecting astronauts – Dr. Randall Mindy and Kate Dibiasky. Their story kicks off with an earth-shattering revelation: a colossal comet, on a catastrophic collision course with our planet, threatens the very existence of human civilization. In their quest to warn the world and spur action, they embark on a desperate media blitz, only to encounter political indifference and public disregard.

Reflects the Absurdity of Our Time

Adam McKay’s movie titled “Don’t Look Up” offers a biting, comical critique on contemporary human behavior. By setting the story against the backdrop of an imminent cosmic disaster, it metaphorically highlights the pervasive indifference and self-deception that permeate society. Characters struggle to maneuver through a labyrinth of governmental obstacles, social media hype, and individuals preoccupied with celebrity news rather than the impending catastrophe. The film boasts the stellar cast of Leonardo DiCaprio, Jennifer Lawrence, Meryl Streep, Jonah Hill, and Cate Blanchett.

16
‘Black Panther’ (2018)

In the technologically advanced, secretive nation of Wakanda, we meet T’Challa, a young prince becoming king after his father T’Chaka’s demise. As the Black Panther, a respected warrior-king, he’s entrusted with safeguarding his people and their unique assets from those seeking to misuse them. However, when Erik Killmonger contests his rule, T’Challa must rise to the challenge and defend himself.

The MCU’s Cultural Milestone

In Captain America: Civil War, Chadwick Boseman debuted as Black Panther, sparking significant excitement for his solo film. The movie not only met but exceeded expectations, offering a trailblazing portrayal, innovative world design, heart-stopping action sequences, and a profound cultural influence. Director Ryan Coogler masterfully handled the genre aspects while also infusing an adventurous spirit that garnered the film seven Oscar nominations.

15
‘The Shape of Water’ (2017)

Under the direction of Guillermo del Toro, the film titled “The Shape of Water” unfolds during the tense period of the Cold War. It centers around Elisa Esposito, a solitary janitor who toils at a top-secret government lab. Her routine existence undergoes a dramatic shift when she stumbles upon an enigmatic being confined within the premises. A profound bond develops between them, and Elisa embarks on a daring mission to rescue this creature from the grip of the merciless Colonel Strickland.

Combines Sci-Fi With Fantasy and Romance

In a unique blend of emotion, visual appeal, and unconventional storytelling, “The Shape of Water” stands out as one of the rare science fiction films to receive an impressive thirteen Academy Award nominations, eventually winning both Best Picture and Best Director for Guillermo del Toro. Although it strays from typical genre tropes, favoring fantasy and romance elements, the profound themes and captivating cinematography harmoniously contribute to the enigma surrounding the secret laboratory and its objectives, elevating the film beyond its initial appearance.

14
‘Arrival’ (2016)

When a dozen inexplicable extraterrestrial spacecraft land in various parts of the world, it triggers widespread fear in the affected countries. The U.S. military calls upon linguist Dr. Louise Banks to decode their alien tongue, establish contact, and ascertain their motives. As Louise and Ian Donnelly delve deeper into this mystery, they uncover significant insights about time and language.

Thought-Provoking and Emotionally Resonant

The film “Arrival” delves into profound philosophical inquiries about human comprehension and the nature of reality, utilizing the concept of alien encounters as its backdrop. Directed by Denis Villeneuve, it offers a thoughtful narrative and stunning visuals that foster introspection, challenging our understanding of existence. Amy Adams’ portrayal of Louise is both fascinating and reflective, despite not receiving an Academy Award nomination herself, the movie garnered several Academy Award nods.

13
‘The Martian’ (2015)

Under Ridley Scott’s direction, the film titled The Martian narrates the story of astronaut Mark Watney, portrayed by Matt Damon. During a space expedition, a severe sandstorm on Mars causes Mark’s crew to evacuate the planet’s surface, leaving him behind and eventually assuming him dead. However, Mark manages to survive in the harsh Martian terrain using his intellect, resourcefulness, and scientific knowledge. Simultaneously, he makes efforts to establish contact with NASA back on Earth.

A Guide to Surviving on Mars

The Martian offers an exhilarating tale of rescue, filled with comedic relief amidst tense drama. Matt Damon shines as the resilient and inventive Mark, who captivates audiences with his witty struggle for existence on a barren planet. The film’s authentic scientific portrayal of using rocket fuel to generate water and cultivate plants adds an educational layer to the story. In summary, this movie is both engaging and inspiring.

12
‘Her’ (2013)

In a close-to-tomorrow Los Angeles, Her unfolds the story of Theodore Twombly, a solitary writer who acquires a sophisticated artificial intelligence system meant to be the perfect personal aid. He christens this system Samantha, and as their interactions progress, Theodore encounters the highs and lows of romance with an unusual companion – an AI. As he navigates through his complex feelings, he struggles with the realization that he’s formed a profound emotional bond with an artificial entity.

Explores Love in the Digital Age

This film is one of the most beautiful, emotionally deep, and unorthodox science fiction movies ever made. It serves as a poetic reflection on how human relationships have evolved with rapid technological advancement. Joaquin Phoenix delivers an exceptional performance as Theodore, while Scarlett Johansson’s voice work as Samantha pushes the boundaries of love and intimacy. For its unique approach to science fiction, this film was nominated for five Academy Awards, including Best Picture, and it won Best Original Screenplay.

11
‘Avatar: The Way of Water’ (2022)

In the continuation of the tale, Avatar: The Way of Water finds Jake Sully and Ney’tiri back in the realm of Pandora, having established a family and working tirelessly to shield themselves and their kin from danger. However, a fresh menace arises as humanity persists in exploiting Pandora’s resources. With no other choice, they are compelled to find sanctuary among the aquatic Metkayina tribe of Pandora, learning to adapt to this novel habitat.

Enduring Struggle for Cultural Preservation

The long-anticipated follow-up to the record-breaking film that held the title of the highest-earning movie ever for years, “Avatar: The Way of Water“, is a visually stunning tour de force, crafted by James Cameron’s inspiring imagination. The remarkable special effects, grandiose music, and emotional storyline expand the limits of science fiction cinema and continue the original’s triumph. Despite some criticism for being overly simplistic, the movie garnered four Academy Award nominations and won for Best Visual Effects.

10
‘Dune’ (2021)

The initial film in a two-part series based on Frank Herbert’s 1965 novel, Dune, is set in a far-off future where various noble houses vie for dominance over the barren planet Arrakis, a challenging terrain and the sole provider of the precious commodity called “spice.” Young noble Paul Atreides finds himself entangled in a complex web of political maneuvers and ancient prophecies as he strives to assert his destiny and join forces with the Fremen inhabitants of the desert.

An Epic Adaptation of a Sci-Fi Masterpiece

Under the guidance of director Denis Villeneuve, the film Dune stands as an iconic achievement. It is renowned for its grand scale and intricate storytelling as it skillfully adapts Herbert’s groundbreaking science fiction novel to the big screen. The movie immerses viewers in expansive vistas, layered relationships, and richly developed characters, offering a sensory treat. The film’s talented cast, featuring Timothée Chalamet, Rebecca Ferguson, Oscar Isaac, Zendaya, among others, along with Hans Zimmer’s stirring soundtrack, have contributed to the movie’s impressive commercial and critical acclaim.

9
‘Inception’ (2010)

In Christopher Nolan’s film, Inception, corporate espionage has advanced to the point where thoughts from the subconscious are targeted for information extraction. The story follows a proficient thief named Dom Conn, who has paid a heavy price for his skills and yearns for redemption. An opportunity arises for him to restore his life, but only if he can pull off the most challenging “inception” – not stealing an idea, but implanting one into someone’s mind instead.

Conceptually Innovative and Artistically Brilliant

As a cinema enthusiast, I can’t help but admire Christopher Nolan for his unique storytelling techniques that leave audiences on the edge of their seats. His movies, like Inception, are intricate masterpieces that delve into complex narratives or manipulate time in captivating ways. Inception stands out as a cinematic marvel, seamlessly intertwining layers upon layers of dreams within dreams, consistently defying the norms of sci-fi, action, and psychological thriller genres. Its groundbreaking narrative and visually stunning scenes earned it eight Academy Award nominations and four wins, including Best Cinematography and Best Visual Effects.

8
‘A Clockwork Orange’ (1971)

As a cinephile, I can’t help but feel that Stanley Kubrick’s masterpiece, 2001: A Space Odyssey, was one of the most unfortunate oversights in the history of Best Picture nominations. However, luckily for us, A Clockwork Orange managed to avoid a similar fate. The film unfolds in a grim future where a mischievous youngster named Alex DeLarge revels in extreme acts of violence. Alongside his “droogs,” he engages in acts of cruelty until he’s eventually captured by the authorities, who then enroll him in an experimental government program that employs aversion therapy to reform him.

Twisted, Unsettling, and Provocative

The groundbreaking science fiction novel “A Clockwork Orange” resists simple classification. Its unique fusion of pop art style and disturbing violence constructs a captivating yet ominous environment that draws viewers in inescapably. Although the sci-fi aspects provide a framework for exploring the grim society it portrays, the film predominantly belongs to the psychological horror genre and delivers chilling insights on topics such as free will, power, and the consequences of psychological conditioning.

7
‘Poor Things’ (2023)

In a playful, amusing, and imaginative retelling of Alasdair Gray’s 1992 novel Poor Things, we find ourselves following the story of Belle Baxter, a young woman who is miraculously revived when she’s plucked from a river by the brilliant and peculiar scientist, Dr. Godwin Baxter. Employing a brain transplant, he brings her back to life. As she adapts to this fresh start, Belle yearns for self-discovery and emancipation, leading her to embark on a journey into the real world where she tests the limits of life and mortality.

Arsitic, Bold, and Whimsical

Under the unique and humorous direction of Yorgos Lanthimos, the film “Poor Things” stands out as a captivating blend of genres. The intriguing narrative is brought to life by exceptional performances from Emma Stone as the curious Bella, Willem Dafoe as her extraordinary rescuer, and Mark Ruffalo as Duncan Wedderburn, a corrupt lawyer who becomes an unlikely friend to Bella. The film is distinguished by its visually striking setting, offbeat humor, and profound satirical commentary. This bold cinematic piece has made waves in the sci-fi genre, earning 11 nominations from the Academy.

6
‘E.T.: The Extra-Terrestrial’ (1982)

The storyline revolves around a friendly extraterrestrial who accidentally lands on Earth. A young boy named Elliot discovers this alien, whom they nickname E.T., and he is joined by his siblings, Gertie and Michael, in concealing E.T. from the authorities. As their bond deepens, they collaborate on a daring scheme to return E.T. to his home planet and enable him to rejoin his own species.

Timeless Tale of Friendship and Wonder

Through an exceptional filmmaking effort, Steven Spielberg established himself as one of his generation’s top directors by creating this moving masterpiece. By speaking the universal language of human feelings, it beautifully portrays the purity and charm of childhood while interweaving an exhilarating tale of exploration. The film is headlined by a touching portrayal of Thomas Henry as Elliot, with Robert MacNaughton and Drew Barrymore also delivering outstanding performances as his siblings. With nine Academy Award nominations, including Best Picture, E.T.: The Extra-Terrestrial has become an enduring classic that has significantly influenced the sci-fi genre.

5
‘Mad Max: Fury Road’ (2016)

In many cases, post-apocalyptic landscapes are paired with sci-fi elements, and this is precisely what happens in the fourth installment of the Mad Max series, titled “Mad Max: Fury Road.” The story unfolds in a desolate desert environment where resources like petrol and water are scarce. The main characters are Max Rockatansky and Imperator Furiosa as they flee from the oppressive ruler Immortan Joe, who wields an iron fist over all available resources and keeps a harem of young women captive for their reproductive potential.

Cinematic Spectacle Like No Other

Guided by George Miller’s visionary leadership, “Mad Max: Fury Road” unfolds as an exhilarating and unyielding epic that grows more captivating with each passing moment. The film’s breathtaking visual effects coupled with the harsh backdrop of a dystopian world, and themes such as ecological destruction and feminism, make it even more appealing. Tom Hardy delivers a brooding performance as Max, while Charlize Theron shines as Furiosa. With ten Academy Award nominations, “Mad Max: Fury Road” showcases the pinnacle of sci-fi action cinema.

4
‘Avatar’ (2009)

In around the middle of the 22nd century, Earth’s inhabitants began exploring and settling Pandora, a verdant planet overflowing with resources. A former Marine named Jake Sully, who is confined to a wheelchair, gets chosen for the Avatar Program. This program enables Jake’s consciousness to be transferred into an avatar – a biologically designed body that resembles the Na’vi people. However, as he grows closer to the native inhabitants, Jake grapples with his loyalty towards humans and his emerging bond with Pandora.

A Groundbreaking, Visually Stunning Sci-Fi Epic

Given its remarkable technological feats, extraordinary box-office success, and significant cultural influence, it proved nearly impossible for the Academy to overlook Avatar. The film garnered nine Academy Award nominations and three victories, cementing its status within its genre. Cameron’s compelling storytelling, moving narrative, and timely examination of themes like corporate greed, environmental preservation, and cultural preservation resonated with a broad audience. Additionally, the performances by Sam Worthington and Zoe Saldaña were truly unforgettable.

3
‘Dune: Part Two’ (2024)

Moving forward from 2021’s grand tale, Dune: Part Two picks up where we left off, following Paul Atreides as he steps into his destiny and gains power on the arid planet Arrakis. He forms a bond with the Fremen, immersing himself in their ways of life, and leads a revolution against the tyrannical House Harkonnen. With Chani by his side and a looming battle foreseen only by him, Paul readies himself for the challenges ahead.

A Spectacular Sequel Continuation

Following the immense acclaim for his bold adaptation of Herbert’s science fiction novel, Denis Villeneuve’s Dune: Part Two emerged as one of the most eagerly awaited films in 2024. The film delved deeper and offered a more intricate narrative, expanding on the initial installment, and showcased breathtaking visual effects, captivating cinematography, trippy visuals, and impactful action sequences. Earning $714.4 million at the box office, it garnered five nominations at the Academy Awards.

2
‘Everything Everywhere All at Once’ (2023)

In terms of seamlessly combining genres, no film surpasses “Everything Everywhere All at Once“. Directed by Daniel Kwan and Daniel Scheinert, this movie follows Evelyn Wang, an elderly Chinese immigrant, who learns that she’s the sole individual capable of preventing a multiverse catastrophe. To achieve this, she must engage with and harness the abilities of her countless counterparts from various realities.

A Wild and Dizzying Multiversal Epic

The film titled “Everything Everywhere All at Once,” featuring Michelle Yeoh, Ke Huy Quan, Jamie Lee Curtis, and Stephanie Hsu, seemingly surpasses the constraints of sci-fi. It’s awe-inspiring in its entirety, seamlessly blending humor, action, drama, and interdimensional travel into a tale that is simultaneously thrilling and heartfelt. This movie garnered seven out of eleven nominations, with wins for Best Picture, Best Director, and Best Original Screenplay for Kwan and Scheinert, Best Actress for Yeoh, among other accolades.

1
‘Star Wars: Episode IV – A New Hope’ (1977)

In the 1970s, the initial installment of the Star Wars series played a massive and pivotal role. This movie, titled Star Wars: Episode IV – A New Hope, introduced us to Luke Skywalker, a young farmer. The story began with him setting off on a mission to save Princess Leia and defeat the malevolent Galactic Empire. Accompanied by Han Solo, a rogue smuggler, Jedi Master Obi-Wan Kenobi, and a group of rebels, Luke engaged in combat against Darth Vader, uncovering his latent abilities along the way.

A True, Genre-Defining Icon

From the 70s and even beyond, science fiction films often went unnoticed by the Academy in major categories, but only until this groundbreaking film came along. This movie revolutionized the genre and left an indelible mark on pop culture. As a devoted fan, I can attest to its overwhelming positive reception from both critics and fans alike. The film’s special effects, John Williams’ iconic score, captivating characters, and signature elements like lightsabers and starships quickly became emblems of the genre. In fact, it was nominated for a staggering ten Academy Awards, with Best Picture among them.

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2025-03-03 01:35