7 Most Underrated International Sci-Fi Movies

Science fiction has captivated audiences and filmmakers for over a century, with groundbreaking films like A Trip to the Moon (1902) and Metropolis (1927) setting early benchmarks. These classics, originating from France and Germany respectively, are nearing their centenaries and remain pivotal in cinematic history. Here we explore the 7 most underrated international Sci-Fi movies in this guide.

Beyond Hollywood, international cinema has also produced a plethora of iconic and often overlooked sci-fi gems. Here’s a rundown of some of the most underrated science fiction movies made outside the U.S., spanning a variety of languages and cultures.

7. ‘Godzilla vs. Biollante’ (1989)

The Godzilla franchise boasts nearly 40 films spanning over 70 years, yet some standout entries, like Godzilla vs. Biollante, tend to be overshadowed. This film introduces Biollante, one of Godzilla’s most visually striking adversaries, with a backstory intricately woven into the human drama. It succeeds in blending human emotion with epic monster battles, making it a standout among giant monster films.

6. ‘Spirits of the Air: Gremlins of the Clouds’ (1987)

Set in a post-apocalyptic Australian desert, Spirits of the Air: Gremlins of the Clouds diverges from the Mad Max aesthetic. This character-driven narrative revolves around a sibling duo and a mysterious stranger who alters their lives forever. Director Alex Proyas, known for his visually arresting films like The Crow and Dark City, showcases his knack for imaginative storytelling and mesmerizing visuals, making this film a captivating journey into the unknown.

5. ‘Dead Man’s Letters’ (1986)

Dead Man’s Letters, a Soviet production, delves into the aftermath of nuclear war with a chilling intensity reminiscent of the acclaimed Threads. Bleak and hauntingly realistic, it serves as a stark reminder of the horrors of war. Despite its somber tone, the film’s humanistic approach to sci-fi is compelling, offering a profound experience for those drawn to its unsettling narrative.

4. ‘Summer Time Machine Blues’ (2005)

Summer Time Machine Blues injects humor into its time travel premise, delivering a delightfully quirky comedy on a modest budget. Following a group of friends navigating temporal chaos to fix an air-conditioning remote, the film blends creativity with comedic timing. It’s reminiscent of Japanese cinema’s ability to blend grounded humor with imaginative storytelling, much like Beyond the Infinite Two Minutes (2020).

3. ‘The Aerial’ (2007)

The Aerial defies easy categorization with its bold visual style and enigmatic narrative set in a dystopian future. This Argentine film captivates with its black-and-white cinematography and nods to cinematic history, offering a surreal and thought-provoking experience. It stands alone in its genre, appealing to viewers intrigued by its avant-garde approach to storytelling.

2. ‘Woman in the Moon’ (1929)

While Fritz Lang’s Metropolis (1927) remains a pinnacle of silent sci-fi cinema, Woman in the Moon is a worthy successor. Set on a lunar expedition, it pioneers space travel storytelling with its technical prowess and visual grandeur. A testament to Lang’s visionary storytelling, it continues to captivate audiences nearly a century later with its epic scale and imaginative narrative.

1. ‘The Man Who Stole the Sun’ (1979)

The Man Who Stole the Sun transcends traditional sci-fi by blending multiple genres seamlessly. This Japanese masterpiece surprises with its dark humor, intense drama, and unpredictable plot twists across its substantial runtime. A gripping and unforgettable experience, it earns its place as one of the most underrated sci-fi films outside the U.S., leaving a lasting impression on adventurous viewers.

Each of these films showcases the diverse and innovative approaches to science fiction filmmaking beyond Hollywood’s borders, proving that cinematic brilliance knows no geographical bounds.