Watching the same blockbuster science fiction movies over and over can get boring. But there’s a whole universe of lesser known science fiction films out there that are just as good—sometimes better. In this list, we’ll cover 10 of the best underrated sci-fi movies to watch that you’ve probably missed. These hidden sci-fi movie gems combine smart storytelling, strong acting, and creative direction that deserves more credit.
Whether you’re a fan of space travel, mind-bending time loops, or dystopian futures, there’s something here for you.
1. “Coherence” (2013)
Director: James Ward Byrkit
Runtime: 89 minutes
Where to watch: Amazon Prime
“Coherence” is a low-budget film filled with smart twists. It all takes place over one night during a dinner party. A passing comet causes the timeline to split and mix. As the night goes on, people start seeing versions of themselves. The fear is real, and the tension builds fast.
- Budget: Only $50,000
- Rotten Tomatoes Score: 88%
Why it’s worth watching:
- It’s a masterclass in storytelling with almost no special effects.
- The chilling atmosphere keeps you guessing from start to finish.
2. “Timecrimes” (2007)
Director: Nacho Vigalondo
Runtime: 92 minutes
Language: Spanish (with subtitles)
Where to watch: Tubi
This Spanish-language film explores time loops in a suspenseful way. A man accidentally enters a time machine and finds himself in a loop, trying to fix what he started.
Why it’s one of the best underrated sci-fi movies to watch:
- It’s tight, just three characters and one location.
- The mystery builds on itself, with twists you don’t expect.
3. “Aniara” (2018)
Directors: Pella Kågerman, Hugo Lilja
Runtime: 106 minutes
Language: Swedish (with subtitles)
A spaceship heading for Mars veers off course. As passengers lose hope, the ship drifts through space endlessly. Based on a 1956 Swedish poem, this film explores purpose, depression, and survival.
Why it’s a hidden sci-fi movie gem:
- Visually stunning despite a modest budget.
- Philosophical look at what happens when people lose direction—literally and mentally.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Budget | $1.5 million |
| Rotten Tomatoes Score | 85% |
| IMDb Rating | 6.7/10 |
4. “Predestination” (2014)
Director: The Spierig Brothers
Runtime: 97 minutes
Stars: Ethan Hawke, Sarah Snook
This movie is based on the short story “All You Zombies” by Robert A. Heinlein. It uses time travel in a smart and emotional way. You won’t see the ending coming.
Why it stands out among lesser known science fiction films:
- Brilliant performances by Ethan Hawke and Sarah Snook.
- A closed time loop that actually pays off.
5. “The Man from Earth” (2007)
Director: Richard Schenkman
Runtime: 87 minutes
A college professor claims he’s 14,000 years old. The movie is just a group of people sitting in a room talking, but that’s what makes it special. The story is deep, thoughtful, and entirely driven by dialogue.
Why you should give this hidden sci-fi movie gem a shot:
- No flashy effects. Just sharp writing.
- Raises big ideas about life, history, and humanity.
6. “Love” (2011)
Director: William Eubank
Runtime: 84 minutes
A man is stranded on a space station after contact with Earth is lost. Made on a tiny budget, this movie is more about human emotion than action.
Extra facts:
- Budget: Just $500,000
- Produced by the rock band Angels & Airwaves
Why it’s a lesser known science fiction film worth watching:
- Touches on loneliness, sanity, and what it means to be human.
- The visuals are far more impressive than you’d expect from an indie film.
7. “I Origins” (2014)
Director: Mike Cahill
Runtime: 106 minutes
A scientist studying the human eye finds something that could connect science and spirituality. This movie leans into personal discovery, not lasers or space battles.
What makes it unique:
- Mixes science and metaphysics well.
- Questions things we think we know.
If you’re looking to go beyond typical sci-fi tropes, this one is a must.
8. “ARQ” (2016)
Director: Tony Elliott
Runtime: 88 minutes
Where to watch: Netflix
In a future ruled by energy shortages and war, an engineer is stuck in a time loop.