There’s no doubt that 2025 was a big year for movies, especially in the sci-fi genre. It was home to some of the year’s best films, and the genre is sure to be a big contender come awards season in 2026. Narrowing down the best sci-fi movies from 2025 is no easy task.
Some of the best sci-fi films were released straight to streaming services and became hits; others flew under the radar and were unjustly overlooked, while some were among the biggest successes at the box office. They also blend genres, crossing over into horror, action, and more, making for an entertaining watch among the year’s best.
Key Highlights
- 2025 Sci-Fi Films: The year featured a mix of blockbuster hits and overlooked gems in the sci-fi genre.
- Streaming Success: Many films found success on streaming platforms, showcasing diverse storytelling.
- Award Contenders: Several films are expected to be strong contenders during the upcoming awards season.
- Genre Blending: The films often blend elements of horror and action, appealing to a wide audience.
One of the earliest sci-fi movies released this past year arrived on Apple TV+. The Gorge had a lot going for it with two talented lead actors, an intriguing premise, and a director who has made some high-quality movies over the years.
Scott Derrickson, who helmed Doctor Strange and Sinister, directed The Gorge, which starred Anya Taylor-Joy and Miles Teller. The film sees them playing elite snipers who are tasked with guarding a deep gorge that lies between them, though with no knowledge of what lies down there.
The Gorge benefited from the chemistry of Taylor-Joy and Teller, especially in a fun scene where they paid homage to their roles in Whiplash and The Queen’s Gambit. The movie had some strong horror elements, which makes sense given Derrickson was directing, and is a strong entry into the sci-fi horror subgenre.
The Running Man
Image via Paramount Pictures
Not many sci-fi movies in 2025 were more highly anticipated than The Running Man. Based on the novel of the same name from iconic author Stephen King, this was the second adaptation of the story following the 1987 film led by Arnold Schwarzenegger.
The movie had creative filmmaker Edgar Wright in the director’s chair and featured rising star Glen Powell in the lead role. Add in a supporting cast of Colman Domingo, Josh Brolin, Emilia Jones, Michael Cera, William H. Macy, and Lee Pace, to name a few, and this was a recipe for success.
Ultimately, The Running Man struggled at the box office and critics felt that it kind of rushed through the source material. That said, it remains an enjoyable action movie with plenty of sci-fi elements and is worthy of a viewing.
Elio
Since sci-fi is a genre that lends itself to thought-provoking ideas and concepts, most movies are aimed at adults rather than children. Elio bucks that trend with a full-on sci-fi story that lives up to what makes Pixar special as a film studio.
Elio centers on the titular child who dreams of leaving his troubled life on Earth for something better amongst the cosmos. When aliens actually come to get him, they mistake him for Earth’s ambassador and he must navigate a conflict involving a new friend he made and his warlord father.
The visuals are stunning as always with Pixar, and there’s a ton of heart to the plot. Elio was well-received, features a great voice cast, and tells a touching tale of found family while including a blast of space adventure. Elio found itself nominated for Best Motion Picture – Animated at the Golden Globes.
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