Sci-fi movies often stretch the boundaries of plausibility, leaning heavily into fiction. However, a few films take the “science” aspect seriously, highlighting some of the genre’s more accurate elements. These films go beyond mere speculation and incorporate scientific principles, theories, and technologies that are either currently possible or plausible in the near future. By consulting with experts in various fields, conducting meticulous research, and paying attention to the details, filmmakers create captivating stories that not only entertain but also educate and inspire audiences.

While artistic liberties are still taken to enhance the narrative and visual impact, some of the best sci-fi movies demonstrate a commitment to authenticity that sets them apart from their more fantastical counterparts. As the line between science fiction and science fact continues to blur, these films offer a glimpse into the incredible potential of human ingenuity and the wonders that linger in the vast expanse of the universe.

10

The Andromeda Strain (1971)

Directed by Robert Wise

The Andromeda Strain presents a narrative that explores the potential consequences of encountering an extraterrestrial virus. The story revolves around a US research satellite that crashes into a small Arizona town, unleashing a deadly pathogen that claims the lives of most of the local population. A team of highly skilled scientists are then dispatched to investigate the crash site and unravel the mysteries surrounding the lethal virus. The film’s premise, while relying on the existence of an alien microorganism, remains firmly grounded in scientific plausibility, as the technologies and methodologies depicted align with those currently available to researchers.

One of the key aspects that sets The Andromeda Strain apart is its meticulous adherence to scientific accuracy in its portrayal of the virus and its effects. While the discovery of an extraterrestrial pathogen may be the only element that stretches beyond current reality, the way in which the scientists approach the investigation, the tools they employ, and the challenges they face in understanding and containing the virus all mirror the real-world experiences of virologists and epidemiologists.

9

Her (2013)

Directed by Spike Jonze

Her stars Joaquin Phoenix as Theodore, a lonely divorcee who delves into the complexities of human-AI relationships and the potential implications of advanced artificial intelligence. The film revolves around Theodore’s encounter with Samantha, an intuitive and evolving AI program that develops a deep connection with him, ultimately blossoming into a romantic bond. As AI continues to be a topic of discussion and research, Her offers a thought-provoking exploration of the possibilities and challenges that may arise as these technologies advance.

While comparisons have been drawn between Samantha and existing AI assistants like Apple’s Siri, the film portrays her as a significantly more sophisticated entity, capable of genuine emotional connection and growth. However, the idea of such advanced AI is not entirely implausible, given the rapid pace of technological development. Her asks the philosophical questions that will inevitably emerge as AI becomes increasingly more integrated into society, prompting viewers to consider the nature of consciousness, the boundaries of human-machine relationships, and the ethical implications of creating sentient artificial beings.

8

2001: A Space Odyssey (1968)

Directed by Stanley Kubrick

2001: A Space Odyssey set a new standard for scientific accuracy in science fiction cinema, inspiring a wave of films that sought to emulate its meticulous attention to detail. While some viewers may find the film’s pacing slow and deliberate, this approach allows for a thorough exploration of the scientific concepts and technologies portrayed on screen. Remarkably, the film anticipated numerous technological advancements long before their actual emergence, showcasing Kubrick’s visionary insight into the future of science and technology.

A prime example of this prescience is the briefcase featuring a phone handset and dial, which bears a striking resemblance to the modern smartphone. The film’s depiction of astronauts as disciplined, methodical professionals, rather than archetypal heroes, marked a departure from the conventions of earlier science fiction movies, earning praise for its realistic portrayal of space exploration. Additionally, the portrayal of a computer capable of playing chess in the film predated the famous 1997 match between IBM’s Deep Blue and world champion Garry Kasparov by nearly three decades, further highlighting the film’s forward-thinking approach to technology.

7

Gattaca (1998)

Directed by Andrew Niccol

Gattaca stands out for its remarkably plausible depiction of a near-future society shaped by advances in genetic engineering. The film’s central premise revolves around the concept of genetic modification and the consequences of a world where one’s genetic makeup determines their social status and opportunities. While the speed and accuracy of the genetic screening technology portrayed in the film may exceed current capabilities, the underlying principles and techniques are rooted in real-world scientific developments.

The story follows Vincent Freeman, a genetically “in-valid” individual who is barred from leaving the planet due to his genetic status. By purchasing “valid” DNA, Vincent gains access to the Gattaca space program, where he must go to great lengths to conceal his true identity while falling in love with Irene. The film’s exploration of the potential divide between genetically engineered individuals and those who are not eerily mirrors the concerns raised by ethicists and scientists today, as the prospect of designer babies and genetic enhancement becomes increasingly feasible.

6

The Martian (2015)

Directed by Ridley Scott

In The Martian, the scientific accuracy of the film shines through in its depiction of the travel time between Earth and Mars. Based on current technological abilities, the eight-month journey portrayed in the movie is a realistic representation of the time it would take to traverse the vast distance between the two planets. This attention to detail adds a layer of authenticity to the story of astronaut Mark Watney (Matt Damon) and his struggle for survival on the Red Planet.

The film’s portrayal of Watney’s ability to cultivate plants in Martian soil is another aspect that aligns with scientific plausibility. Real-world research has explored the potential for growing vegetation in simulated Martian conditions, lending credence to this plot point in the movie. Additionally, The Martian accurately captures the prevalence of dust devils on Mars’ surface, a phenomenon that occurs despite the planet’s thin atmosphere. The overall commitment to scientific accuracy in depicting the Martian environment and the challenges faced by a stranded astronaut sets it apart as a compelling and grounded science fiction narrative.

5

Minority Report (2002)

Directed by Steven Spielberg

Set in the year 2054, Minority Report presents a captivating vision of a future where a specialized police unit known as Precrime employs advanced psychic technology to apprehend criminals before they commit their offenses. Loosely adapted from Philip K. Dick’s 1956 short story of the same name, the film stars Tom Cruise, Colin Farrell, and Samantha Morton in a gripping narrative that explores the complexities of free will, determinism, and the consequences of relying on predictive technology.

To create the convincing and immersive futuristic world of Minority Report, Spielberg and his team conducted extensive research and consulted with numerous experts across various fields. This meticulous attention to detail resulted in the inclusion of technologies and concepts that, while seemingly far-fetched at the time of the film’s release in 2002, have since become a reality. For example, retinal scanners and motion-tracking computer systems are now commonplace in the modern world.

4

Moon (2009)

Directed by Duncan Jones

Moon is a hidden gem in the science fiction genre, deserving of far more recognition for its scientific accuracy and compelling storytelling. The film’s central premise revolves around the mining of helium-3, a resource that exists in significant quantities on Earth’s moon. This aspect of the story is grounded in real-world scientific discussions about the potential use of helium-3 as a future energy source, even though the practicality of relying on it as our primary power supply remains a topic of debate among experts.

Beyond its focus on helium-3, Moon excels in its depiction of various other scientific elements, from lunar mining operations to energy systems and spacecraft designs. Each of these aspects adheres closely to what is generally accepted and validated within the scientific community, demonstrating the film’s commitment to plausibility and realism. Moon offers a thought-provoking and emotionally resonant narrative that explores themes of isolation, identity, and the human condition.

3

Arrival (2016)

Directed by Denis Villeneuve

In the thought-provoking science fiction film Arrival, linguistic professor Louise Banks (Amy Adams) faces the monumental task of deciphering an alien language when mysterious spacecraft land at 12 locations worldwide. As tensions mount and the clock ticks, Banks must navigate the complexities of establishing meaningful communication with the extraterrestrial visitors. While the film takes some creative liberties, its portrayal of the linguistic challenges inherent in alien contact stands out for its remarkable accuracy and attention to detail.

Banks’ methodical approach to understanding the alien language in its entirety, considering its structure and context, mirrors the principles and practices employed by real-world linguists. This exploration of interspecies communication sets Arrival apart from other science fiction films that often simplify or overlook the intricacies of language. These scientifically plausible elements enhance the film’s overall credibility, even as it delves into more speculative concepts surrounding time, perception, and the human experience.

2

Interstellar (2014)

Directed by Christopher Nolan

Christopher Nolan’s acclaimed sci-fi epic, Interstellar, follows former NASA pilot Cooper (Matthew McConaughey) as he joins a team of researchers in search of a habitable planet through a wormhole. The film explores numerous aspects of science and space travel, showcasing Nolan’s commitment to scientific accuracy. One of the most lauded elements of Interstellar is its depiction of the black hole Gargantua, which has been widely praised by the scientific community as one of the most accurate portrayals of a black hole in cinema.

Another scientifically sound concept explored in Interstellar is the effect of time dilation. The film accurately demonstrates that proximity to a massive object’s gravity well can cause time to move more slowly compared to the passage of time experienced by those on Earth. This phenomenon is vividly illustrated when Cooper and his surviving crew members return to their ship after spending mere minutes on a planet, only to discover that 23 years have elapsed on Earth during their brief absence. Nolan creates a captivating and thought-provoking narrative that educates viewers about the fascinating realities of the universe.

1

Deep Impact (1998)

Directed by Mimi Leder

Deep Impact centers around a teenager’s discovery of a devastating comet on a collision course with Earth. The movie explores the desperate efforts undertaken to prevent the 7-mile-wide comet from causing a catastrophic mass extinction event. While the notion of a random teenager spotting a potentially Earth-ending comet before NASA may stretch credibility, Deep Impact does incorporate several elements that are more scientifically plausible and accurate.

The film’s depiction of using nuclear bombs to destroy the comet was likely the most viable option when Deep Impact premiered in 1998. Additionally, the movie features a scene in which a fragment of the comet strikes the Atlantic Ocean, triggering a destructive mega-tsunami. Renowned astrophysicist Neil deGrasse Tyson has actually highlighted the realism of this particular scenario (via The New Zealand Herald). By incorporating these scientifically grounded elements alongside its more dramatic and speculative aspects, Deep Impact manages to strike a balance between entertainment and scientific plausibility.

Source: The New Zealand Herald