In the realm of science fiction, where imagination and reality intertwine, the 2010s witnessed the birth of several cinematic gems that, while overlooked at the time, now beckon for the spotlight they deserve. These films, each a masterpiece in its own right, offer a captivating blend of thought-provoking narratives, stunning visuals, and innovative storytelling. Let's embark on a journey through these five forgotten sci-fi movies, each a testament to the genre's boundless creativity and the power of cinematic storytelling.
The Girl with All the Gifts (2016): A Sci-Fi Zombie Odyssey
In the shadows of the zombie apocalypse, 'The Girl with All the Gifts' emerges as a sci-fi masterpiece. Based on Mike Carey's novel, this film takes us to a near-future where a fungal parasite has turned humanity into zombie-like creatures called 'hungries'. The story revolves around Melanie (Sennia Nanua), a child infected with the virus but acting as a carrier, offering hope for a cure. What makes this movie truly remarkable is its ability to blend horror and science fiction seamlessly. The performances, particularly Nanua's, are nothing short of extraordinary, earning her Oscar recognition. The film's unique take on the zombie genre, with its fresh directions and thought-provoking themes, is a breath of fresh air in a decade saturated with similar stories. Personally, I find the ending particularly captivating, leaving a lasting impression and inviting viewers to ponder the complexities of survival and humanity.
Detention (2011): A Time-Traveling Teen Comedy
Joseph Kahn's 'Detention' is a time-traveling teen comedy that defies easy categorization. On the surface, it might appear as a stylized teen-speak knock-off of 'Scream', but beneath the surface lies a post-modern sci-fi gem. The film follows a group of students sentenced to detention on prom night, where they encounter a slasher called Cinderhella who mimics an in-world horror movie series. However, as the story unfolds, it takes a wild turn with time travel, flying saucers, and body-swaps. Kahn's attention to detail in building the worlds within 'Detention' is commendable, making it a fun and chaotic time capsule that captures the end of the MTV era. While it might have alienated some audiences at the time, in retrospect, it feels like a delightful and unique post-modern sci-fi comedy that deserves a second look.
The Vast of Night (2019): A Radio Drama in Sci-Fi Garb
'The Vast of Night' is a 2010s sci-fi flick that defies conventional storytelling. Set in 1950s New Mexico, it's loosely based on incidents with extra-terrestrials believed to have occurred in the region. The film follows Fay (Sierra McCormick), a teenaged switchboard operator, and her friend Everett (Jake Horowitz), a DJ who hosts his own radio show. After Fay hears a strange sound on the switchboard and Everett plays it over the air, locals start calling in with alien theories, and the two teens embark on a quest to unravel the town's mystery. What makes 'The Vast of Night' truly unique is its radio drama-style storytelling, which adds a layer of intrigue and nostalgia. The film's small budget is a testament to its independent miracle, with stunning visuals and a unique style that sets it apart from traditional sci-fi narratives. Its ending, in particular, is a surprise that lingers long after the credits roll.
A Cure for Wellness (2016): A Surreal Sci-Fi Thriller
Gore Verbinski's 'A Cure for Wellness' is a surreal sci-fi thriller that defies easy explanation. Based on the Greek myth of the Lotus Eaters and Mary Shelley's 'Frankenstein', the film follows young executive Lockhart (Dane DeHaan) as he tries to retrieve his company's CEO from a bizarre wellness center in the Swiss Alps. The wellness center, a front for sinister experiments, is a character in itself, with the uber-creepy Dr. Heinreich Volmer (Jason Isaacs) and his eels. The film is not for the faint of heart, as it takes viewers on a nightmarish journey filled with moodiness and slow-burning tension. It's a movie that demands to be experienced, not analyzed, and its ending is a testament to the power of cinematic storytelling. Fans of Guillermo del Toro's 'Crimson Peak' and Jonathan Glazer's 'Under the Skin' will find themselves drawn to 'A Cure for Wellness', which offers a similarly unsettling and thought-provoking experience.
Beyond the Black Rainbow (2010): A Hallucinogenic Sci-Fi Journey
Before 'Mandy', Panos Cosmatos introduced the world to 'Beyond the Black Rainbow', a sci-fi head trip that takes viewers on a surreal journey. The film follows Elena (Eva Bourne), a young woman with psychic abilities, studied by Head of Research Barry Nyle (Michael Rogers), who is going insane from the work. As Elena gains control over her talents and Barry's madness intensifies, the story becomes a battle of wills for her freedom. Financed using residuals from Cosmatos' late father George P. Cosmatos' work, 'Beyond the Black Rainbow' is a stunning debut that showcases the director's unique flair for hallucinogenic imagery. The film's acid trip-esque sequences and stunning visuals make it a must-see for fans of surreal science fiction nightmares, offering a unique and unforgettable cinematic experience.
