10 Nearly Perfect Sci-Fi Movies, Ranked

There might not be too many absolutely perfect science fiction movies, though a few feel untouchable; 2001: A Space Odyssey, Blade Runner, The Empire Strikes Back and Metropolis are often held up as near-untouchable. This piece looks at films that are almost perfect — great works with flaws that barely register overall.

The selections range widely. Starman (1984) is John Carpenter’s unlikely love story, a road-movie romance elevated by execution and a strong Jeff Bridges performance. Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga (2024) fills in Fury Road’s world and comes close to that film’s technical achievements.

Pacific Rim (2013) offers simple, charming giant-robot spectacle, while Until the End of the World (1991) is a long, globe-trotting road movie notable for its visuals and iconic soundtrack. Star Wars: The Last Jedi (2017) remains divisive but is listed as almost perfect.

2001, blade runner, empire strikes, metropolis, starman, furiosa, mad max, pacific rim, last jedi, road movie