The years 1980-1990 are considered the golden age of science fiction cinema. During this period, with the rapid development of technology, there was a great change in cinema. While humanity was making discoveries in space, robots and artificial intelligence became a part of our lives. The science fiction films shot during this period reflected the richness and innovation of this imagination, and gave the audience unforgettable moments.
We can propose 30 science fiction films that transport the audience to a fantasy world, using futuristic technologies, and addressing universal problems and human issues. These include “Blade Runner” and “Aliens” directed by Ridley Scott, “The Terminator” and “The Abyss” directed by James Cameron, “E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial” and “Close Encounters of the” directed by Steven Spielberg. Classics like “The Third Kind”. We also recommend unforgettable films such as the “Back to the Future” series directed by Robert Zemeckis, “The Thing” and “Escape from New York” directed by John Carpenter, and “RoboCop” directed by Paul Verhoeven. . With their timeless stories, impressive visual effects and unforgettable characters, these movies can be a great choice for science fiction fans.
Blade Runner (1982)
Star Wars Episode V: The Empire Strikes Back (1980)
The Terminator (1984)
MEAT. the Extra-Terrestrial (1982)
RoboCop (1987)
The Thing (1982)
The Fly (1986)
Tron (1982)
Aliens (1986)
Predator (1987)
Back to the Future (1985)
The Running Man (1987)
They Live (1988)
The Abyss (1989)
Total Recall (1990)
Cocoon (1985)
The Last Starfighter (1984)
Flight of the Navigator (1986)
Dune (1984)
The Day the Earth Stood Still (1980)
Enemy Mine (1985)
Escape from New York (1981)
Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan (1982)
Star Trek IV: The Voyage Home (1986)
WarGames (1983)
The Quiet Earth (1985)
Spaceballs (1987)
The Blob (1988)
Innerspace (1987)
The Dark Crystal (1982)
Blade Runner (1982)
“Blade Runner” (1982), directed by Ridley Scott and directed by Philip K. Dick, “Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep?” It is a science fiction movie based on the novel. The movie is about a world where androids live with humans in a dystopian story set in Los Angeles.
Rick Deckard, played by Harrison Ford, is recruited as a former “blade runner” and hunts down the escaped Nexus-6 androids. During this mission, he begins to question the difference between androids and humanity. The unforgettable atmosphere of the film, combined with Ridley Scott’s directing skills and Vangelis’ impressive soundtrack, is considered one of the most impressive science fiction films in the history of cinema.
“Blade Runner” is one of the most iconic movies of the science fiction genre, with its original story, cinematography and characters. The film has become a part of the culture, with the successful performance and unforgettable lines of Harrison Ford, combined with the directing skills of Ridley Scott.
Star Wars Episode V: The Empire Strikes Back (1980)
“Star Wars Episode V: The Empire Strikes Back” (1980) is the second film in the Star Wars franchise created by George Lucas. The movie is about the adventures of Luke Skywalker, Han Solo and Princess Leia Organa as they struggle against the oppressive empire of the galaxy.
Fighting against the attacks of the forces of the empire, our heroes embark on an adventure that stretches between planets. Luke Skywalker begins training with Yoda, a mysterious Jedi master, and learns the power of the Force. The forces of the empire, led by Darth Vader and Emperor Palpatine, pursue our heroes.
“Star Wars Episode V: The Empire Strikes Back” is considered a turning point in the history of cinema with its original story, characters and visual effects. With contributions from director Irvin Kershner, the film is considered one of the most popular and impressive films in the Star Wars franchise. Unforgettable lines and scenes from the movie have become a part of cinema culture.
The Terminator (1984)
“The Terminator” (1984) is a cult science fiction action movie directed by James Cameron and starring Arnold Schwarzenegger. The film is about the pursuit of Sarah Connor by Terminator, a cyborg sent to destroy humanity in the future.
While working as a waitress, Sarah Connor, played by Linda Hamilton, takes an unexpected turn in her life. The Terminator, sent to kill him, is tried to be stopped by Kyle Reese, who is sent back to change history. However, over time, a love bond forms between Sarah Connor and Kyle Reese and the fate of the future begins to change.
“The Terminator” is one of the best movies in the science fiction genre, with its clever script, original story, and impressive visual effects. The iconic performance of Arnold Schwarzenegger and the original soundtrack of the film are also among the factors that make the film unforgettable. “The Terminator” has become a staple of popular culture and has inspired many sequels, television series and video games.
MEAT. the Extra-Terrestrial (1982)
“E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial” (1982) is a science fiction-drama film directed by Steven Spielberg and loved by millions around the world. The film is about an alien creature’s friendship and emotional bond with a young boy as he tries to return home.
A boy named Elliot (Henry Thomas) discovers and befriends an alien creature in a forest near their home. Elliot and his brothers help him as this alien tries to get back home. However, a government agent searching for the alien comes after them to catch them. Meanwhile, Elliot further strengthens his bond with the alien.
“E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial” is considered one of the most beloved films in the history of cinema. Spielberg’s directing skills, John Williams’ impressive music and the performances of the actors make up the unforgettable moments of the movie. The film handles many important themes of friendship, family, commitment and human and affects the audience emotionally.
RoboCop (1987)
“RoboCop” (1987) is a cult science fiction-action film directed by Paul Verhoeven. The film is about a robot cop, developed on the body of a dead policeman, as humanity’s last resort, as crime rates increase worldwide.
Set in Detroit, a police officer named Alex Murphy (Peter Weller) is killed while on duty. However, tech company Omni Consumer Products (OCP) uses his dead body to create RoboCop, a robotic cop. As RoboCop struggles with criminals, he also begins to recall human memories of his past. Meanwhile, Alex’s ex-partner and a group of criminals try to uncover RoboCop’s identity.
“RoboCop” draws attention with its harsh and violent scenes, dark atmosphere and political messages. The film initiates an important discussion about the way technology will rule humanity in the world of the future. Peter Weller’s unforgettable performance makes the movie one of the most beloved movies in science fiction history.
The Thing (1982)
“The Thing” (1982) is a thriller and horror science fiction film directed by John Carpenter. The film is about a group of scientists working at a research base in Antarctica when they are attacked by an alien creature and their struggle for survival.
At the beginning of the movie, a Norwegian research team discovers a spacecraft and the creature inside. However, while fighting the creature, they destroy the camp and die. Soon after, an American team arrives at the Norwegians’ camp and discovers the creature’s remains. However, the creature somehow also infiltrates the Americans’ base and mutates horribly, impersonating a person. After this point, it is impossible to determine who is human and who is creature, and the team becomes suspicious of each other.
With its gripping story, suspense-filled atmosphere and unforgettable special effects, “The Thing” has become one of the classics of the science fiction and horror genre. The film questions the dark aspects of human nature and what a group of people can do to survive. Kurt Russell’s performance and Ennio Morricone’s music also add to the atmosphere of the film.
The Fly (1986)
“The Fly” (1986) is a movie directed by David Cronenberg, with elements of horror, science fiction, and romance. The film is about a scientist attempting to carry people with a teletransporter device, and as a result of these experiments, a terrible transformation begins in him.
Jeff Goldblum plays a scientist named Seth Brundle in “The Fly.” One night, Seth meets journalist Ronnie (Geena Davis) and shows him the teletransporter. However, he makes a mistake in his experiments and begins to find fly DNA in himself. This causes Seth to slowly evolve into a fly-human hybrid. Over time, as Seth’s body becomes creature, his mind also degenerates.
“The Fly” is among the best of its kind with its terrifying visual effects, dark atmosphere and suspenseful story. While questioning the dark aspects of human nature and the dangers of technology, the film impresses the audience with Goldblum’s unforgettable performance. “The Fly” won an Academy Award for Best Visual Effects in 1986.
Tron (1982)
“Tron” (1982) is a science fiction film directed by Steven Lisberger that travels to the computer world. The film is about Kevin Flynn, a computer programmer, being unfairly fired by his employer and his adventures in the computer world.
While trying to hack into his former employer’s computer system, Flynn somehow finds himself in a game. The game is under the control of Sark, a ruthless ruler, and Flynn must fight against Sark and his army to keep himself alive in this world and return to the real world.
“Tron” stands out for its special effects that push the limits of 1980s computer technology. At the same time, the film questions the limits of human being against the power of technology and reveals the dangers brought by the development of technology. The soundtrack of the movie was also composed by Wendy Carlos and has a remarkable feature. “Tron” is considered a science fiction classic ahead of its time.
Aliens (1986)
“Aliens” (1986) is a film directed by James Cameron that blends horror and science fiction genres. The second film in the “Alien” franchise, “Aliens” tells the story of a group of alien hunters who encounter deadly creatures hiding on a ship to kill the passengers and crew.
The movie tells the story of a spaceship captain named Ellen Ripley (Sigourney Weaver) who encounters these creatures along with a group of soldiers sent to explore a colony in outer space. After his horrific experiences on the previous ship, Ripley struggles this time to protect himself and his crew. However, the number and strength of the creatures may not be enough to destroy them.
“Aliens” was praised for its outstanding visual effects, suspenseful atmosphere and acting performances. Sigourney Weaver, as Ellen Ripley, is remembered as a strong heroine. The movie was a worldwide box office hit and inspired its sequels. “Aliens” won an Academy Award for Best Visual Effects in 1987.
Predator (1987)
“Predator” (1987) is a science fiction/action film directed by John McTiernan. The movie is about a group of special forces soldiers being hunted by a mysterious creature in a devastated country of Central America.
The film tells the story of the soldiers trying to discover the true nature of the creature and escape. The creature is an alien species devoted to hunting, and it chooses only the strongest prey. This time his choice will be a group of people who have to fight to save themselves and humanity.
“Predator” is remembered as an engaging action movie starring Arnold Schwarzenegger. The film draws attention with its visual effects, extraordinary characters and impressive music. “Predator” was a huge success at the box office, gaining a foothold in popular culture with several follow-up films and various media adaptations.
Back to the Future (1985)
“Back to the Future” (1985) is a science fiction/comedy film directed by Robert Zemeckis and starring Michael J. Fox and Christopher Lloyd. The movie is about Marty McFly, a high school student living in the 1980s, and a strange scientist, Dr. Time travels with Emmett Brown as he intervenes in his family’s past in the 1950s.
Back in 1955, Marty makes a difference in his family’s life and does his best to bring himself back in time. However, besides the McFly family, he and Dr. Brown has also changed the course of time, and they race against time to correct these changes.
“Back to the Future” has become a classic that goes down in history with an interesting script, successful acting performances, entertaining music and visual effects. The film was a huge success at the box office and gained a foothold in popular culture, with many media adaptations including follow-up films, comics, video games and musicals.
The Running Man (1987)
“The Running Man” (1987) is a science fiction/action film directed by Paul Michael Glaser. The movie is based on the Stephen King novel of the same name and is set in a dystopian future starring Arnold Schwarzenegger.
In the movie, criminals are forced into a deadly race on a game show. In this race, viewers follow the race via live broadcast as participants face many different deadly traps. Ben Richards, played by Schwarzenegger, is wrongfully declared guilty and forced into the race. Richards struggles to win the race and clear himself.
“The Running Man” is notable for its visual effects and action sequences. The film presents a dystopian scenario with social criticism and has strong acting performances. “The Running Man” has an important place in the history of cinema and is fondly remembered by fans of science fiction/action movies.
They Live (1988)
“They Live” (1988) is a science fiction/action film directed by John Carpenter. The film is set in a world where a worker discovers the true nature of world leaders and discovers the existence of a hidden power controlling people.
The film tells the story of a worker named John Nada, played by Roddy Piper. Nada has gone to Los Angeles to find a job, and there she finds a strange box. Through the box, he discovers the existence of a hidden power that actually rules the world. This power can be discovered thanks to a special goggle that turns people into zombies. Nada joins a group of insurgents to fight against the elements of this secret force and fights to reveal the true nature of the people.
“They Live” is considered an extraordinary film by Carpenter. The film has a screenplay that includes social criticism and is remarkable for its visual effects. “They Live” is fondly remembered by sci-fi/action fans, despite being a controversial film in worldview.
The Abyss (1989)
“The Abyss” (1989) is a science fiction film directed by James Cameron. The film focuses on a mysterious submarine base that is discovered during an oil rig rescue operation.
The story of the movie is about a group of oil rig workers participating in a rescue operation after a submarine accident at sea. The rescue team discover a mysterious submarine base and encounter an unusual species living there. This species are underwater beings that can communicate with humans and have a connection to an unknown force. The rescue team embarks on a dangerous journey to explore the submarine base and communicate with these beings.
“The Abyss” draws attention with its visual effects and extraordinary story. The film has taken an important place in the history of science fiction films and is fondly remembered by moviegoers for its extraordinary atmosphere.
Total Recall (1990)
“Total Recall” (1990) is a science fiction film directed by Paul Verhoeven. The film tells the adventure of a construction worker trying to discover who he really is and what is real in his memory.
The story of the movie begins with the story of a construction worker named Douglas Quaid. Quaid gets the opportunity to travel to the planet Mars through an advertisement, and at the same time a memory implant is made. However, under the influence of the implant, he begins to question who Quaid really is and tries to discover whether the memories in his memory are real or imaginary. When Quaid travels to Mars, he must fight to save himself and his loved ones.
“Total Recall” is a gripping action science fiction film starring Arnold Schwarzenegger. The film draws attention with its outstanding visual effects, original scenario and fast-paced action sequences. “Total Recall” is widely recognized as one of the best science fiction films of the 1990s.
Cocoon (1985)
“Cocoon” (1985) is a science fiction-drama film directed by Ron Howard. The movie is about a group of elderly people who are rejuvenated with the help of aliens.
The story of the movie revolves around a group of elderly people living in a retirement home in Florida. One day, old people discover a rejuvenating spring in a nearby swimming pool. It turns out that this resource was left by aliens, and the aliens help old people to prolong their lives. However, older people are forced to accept alien help as the price of their rejuvenation, and they eventually find themselves in a difficult choice.
“Cocoon” stands apart from sci-fi movies with its original story and warm, touching performances. While the film deals with old age and death, it also emphasizes the value of life and the meaning of life. “Cocoon” has won many awards for its visual effects and acting and has an important place in the history of cinema.
The Last Starfighter (1984)
“The Last Starfighter” (1984) is a science fiction film directed by Nick Castle about computer game master Alex Rogan being chosen as a spaceship pilot and embarking on an interplanetary adventure.
Alex Rogan is a small town teenager who spends most of his life playing the computer game “Starfighter”. One day, the game’s creator, Centauri, tells him that Alex has been chosen to be a real spaceship pilot and summons him to join an interplanetary war. Alex finds himself in the middle of an interplanetary war and the fate of the galaxy is now in his hands.
“The Last Starfighter” was shot at a time when computer games were becoming popular at that time, and for this reason, it was loved by many. The film draws attention with its original script, visual effects and acting. “The Last Starfighter” is one of the most beloved movies in the science fiction genre and has become a cult movie.
Flight of the Navigator (1986)
“Flight of the Navigator” (1986) is a science fiction film directed by Randal Kleiser, about a boy’s adventure that begins when he boards a spaceship.
The movie takes place in 1978 and a 12-year-old boy named David is lost in the woods one day. But when he returns home 8 years later, he hasn’t aged at all. Even more interestingly, he claims that he encountered aliens and that the aliens took him around the world in a spaceship. David begins to recount his memories of the spaceship, and he and a NASA scientist embark on a journey to find out the truth.
“Flight of the Navigator” has an original scenario and tells a different story by blending fantasy elements with science fiction. The film draws attention with its visual effects and acting and is also considered a family-friendly film. “Flight of the Navigator” is considered one of the cult science fiction movies of the 80s.
Dune (1984)
“Dune” (1984) is a science fiction film directed by David Lynch and based on Frank Herbert’s novel of the same name.
The film takes place in the distant future, in the universe of many worlds and civilizations. Paul Atreides settles with his family on the planet Arrakis, where they are responsible for the production of a rare metal. But on this planet, there are other forces and Paul’s family becomes the target. Paul begins to rise as the leader of the people on the planet as he flees from his enemies who want to kill him. Then, a great struggle begins over the fate of Arrakis.
“Dune” draws attention with its visual effects, costumes and original music. The film was shot on a fairly large budget for that period and has become a cult classic that is appreciated by the fans even years later. “Dune” is considered one of the most important works of the science fiction genre, although it received mixed reviews from critics.
The Day the Earth Stood Still (1980)
A remake of “The Day the Earth Stood Still” (1951), “The Day the Earth Stood Still” (1980) is a film directed by Robert Wise that offers a modern interpretation of the cult science fiction film.
The film begins with the arrival of an extraterrestrial being, an alien named Klaatu, and his robotic friend Gort. Klaatu brings a message demanding that all weapons in the world be destroyed. However, people do not understand his peaceful intentions, and Klaatu mingles as a human to observe the behavior of people around the world. While Klaatu struggles to change the people’s behavior, Gort is taken prisoner by the people.
“The Day the Earth Stood Still” offers a modern narrative inspired by its original story. While the film criticizes people’s weaknesses in peace and reconciliation, it also deals with the classic themes of the science fiction genre. Klaatu’s intermingling as humans and his observations of how humans rule the world are what make the film interesting. “The Day the Earth Stood Still” is a must-watch movie for science fiction lovers.
Enemy Mine (1985)
“Enemy Mine” (1985) is a science fiction film directed by Wolfgang Petersen.
The film tells the story of two enemy parties trying to survive after they crash on a planet with their escape capsules, while they are in a war where they are enemies to each other in space. Humanity’s pilot Willis Davidge and his nemesis Drac race Jeriba Shigan are forced to stay side by side with their escape pods. The duo, who were initially hostile to each other, gradually began to get along by learning each other’s language. They have to fight common enemies and work together to survive.
“Enemy Mine” is a friendship story about two enemies working together to survive. The film deals with many human themes as well as the racial conflicts between man and creature. The evolving relationship of the two characters and their struggle against their common enemies provides an emotional experience for those who watch the movie. “Enemy Mine” is considered among the classic science fiction movies and stands out as a production worth watching.
Escape from New York (1981)
“Escape from New York” (1981) is a post-apocalyptic science fiction film directed by John Carpenter.
The movie takes place in a future where Manhattan has been turned into a prison. The United States has turned Manhattan into a prison because of the soaring crime rates. But escaped prisoners completely take over Manhattan and turn it into a place of anarchy. The President assigns him to rescue a prisoner whose daughter is among the escapees. Rescue duty is given to a former soldier, Snake Plissken. Snake must enter Manhattan and rescue the President’s daughter.
“Escape from New York” is an action movie set in a dark future. The film deals with the anarchy that occurs when Manhattan is turned into a prison and inmates take over. The character of Snake Plissken played an important role in the success of the film and was played by Kurt Russell. “Escape from New York” is considered a cult science fiction film and is considered one of Carpenter’s best works.
Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan (1982)
“Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan” (1982) is a science fiction film directed by Nicholas Meyer about the struggle between iconic characters from the Star Trek universe, James T. Kirk and Khan Noonien Singh.
The crew of the USS Enterprise, a graduate of the Starfleet Academy, while exploring space, encounter the ship of a former world leader named Khan Noonien Singh. Khan pursues an old showdown with Kirk and plans to take over the galaxy if Kirk fails. Kirk and his crew fight to survive Khan’s attacks.
“Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan” is considered one of the most beloved movies in the Star Trek universe. The character of Khan, played by Ricardo Montalbán, was appreciated for his performance in the film. The movie has a story that deals with the emotional difficulties of the characters and issues related to humanity. Also, the special effects of the period are quite advanced. “Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan” has gained a cult place among science fiction movies.
Star Trek IV: The Voyage Home (1986)
“Star Trek IV: The Voyage Home” (1986) is a science fiction comedy-drama film directed by Leonard Nimoy and featured as the fourth film in the Star Trek franchise.
The plot of the movie begins when the crew, who learns that the future world is in danger, travels back in time to 20th century San Francisco. Here, as the crew races against time to save the dolphins, they face the challenges of time travel while also facing their own pasts.
While “Star Trek IV: The Voyage Home” approaches with a lighter tone compared to other Star Trek movies, it still maintains the main theme of the series. The film focuses on the crew’s interaction with people, their love of nature and environmental protection. In addition, as in the other films of the series, the relationships and emotional bonds of the characters with each other are also at the forefront. “Star Trek IV: The Voyage Home” is considered one of the most loved films in the series.
WarGames (1983)
“WarGames” (1983) is a science fiction film directed by John Badham and starring Matthew Broderick.
The plot of the movie begins when a young computer genius, David Lightman, discovers an unusual computer game in a game chest. Realizing that the game is actually a simulation of a real nuclear war, David accidentally triggers a real nuclear war and creates a great danger to the world. David struggles to save the world when the US government hacks a computer system.
While “WarGames” covers topics such as cybersecurity, artificial intelligence and nuclear warfare, it also touches on human dependence and reliability on technology. It can be said that the film was liked by the critics and became a cult film.
The Quiet Earth (1985)
“The Quiet Earth” (1985) is a New Zealand post-apocalyptic science fiction film directed by Geoffrey Murphy and starring Bruno Lawrence.
The plot of the movie begins with the disappearance of all people on earth as a result of an experiment by a scientist, Zac Hobson. Hobson, who survived himself, begins to live in solitude and his mental health begins to deteriorate over time. But one day, Hobson encounters two other survivors, and together they try to solve this strange situation in the world.
“The Quiet Earth” is an extraordinary science fiction film that deals with topics such as loneliness, human nature and the possible consequences of technology. The film’s atmosphere and acting were praised by critics and is considered an important work of New Zealand cinema.
Spaceballs (1987)
“Spaceballs” (1987) is a science fiction parody film written and directed by Mel Brooks.
The subject of the movie is a parody of Star Wars movies, which is an adventure story set in space. An evil leader, Dark Helmet, seeks to seize a planet’s air supply in outer space. But to thwart this plan, the kind-hearted alien Lone Starr and her hairless dog Barf set out to save the beautiful princess Vespa.
“Spaceballs” makes references to the science fiction genre and the Star Wars universe with its absurd sense of humor. The film, which attracts attention with the direction and acting of Mel Brooks, has turned into a cult classic over time.
The Blob (1988)
“The Blob” (1988) is a science fiction-horror film directed by Chuck Russell.
The plot of the movie is a creature that emerged as a result of a meteorite falling to Earth, grows like a gelatinous organism and continues to grow by swallowing humans. A young couple and the townspeople team up to stop the creature from swallowing humans, and the struggle begins.
“The Blob” is a remake of the 1958 movie of the same name. Chuck Russell’s direction and visual effects made the movie a successful horror movie, while the acting received positive reviews.
Innerspace (1987)
“Innerspace” (1987) is a science fiction comedy film directed by Joe Dante.
In the film, an officer traveling in the body of a rabbit and an explorer take a tour of the human body, after a small experiment is accidentally injected into an astronaut’s body, and the doctors who conducted the experiment escape. The officer works with the explorer to maintain control as he wanders inside his body. However, after a while, the officer and explorer are forced to contend with an evil man’s takeover.
“Innerspace” is best known for its cast, creative script, and visual effects. Performances by Dennis Quaid, Martin Short, and Meg Ryan make the movie funny and entertaining, while the visual effects show what goes on inside the human body in an incredible way.
The Dark Crystal (1982)
“The Dark Crystal” (1982) is a fantasy science fiction film directed by Jim Henson and Frank Oz.
The film takes place in the world of Thra, where the Skeksis, the guardians of the Crystal, rule. The Crystal is crucial to Thra’s balance, and the Skeksis misuse it. But Jen, a Gelfling, sets off with the news that Kristal has been broken, and undertakes the task of reuniting Crystal. On the way, Jen meets Kira, another Gelfling, and together they try to escape from the Skeksis.
“The Dark Crystal” creates a fantasy world with incredible detail and care, while the characters and story are also very engaging. The film is filled with Jim Henson’s creative puppetry and make-up techniques, creating a visually unique world. Also, the film takes on a darker tone than more child-oriented works like “The Muppets”, which Henson and Oz had previously worked on.
