Arrival
Denis Villeneuve made his name in thescience fiction genre, thanks to making several movies likeArrival.
This gorgeous tale of communication, forgiveness, and understanding came through the guise of a first-contact drama.
Villeneuves signature visual style, atmospheric sound design, and methodical pacing also mirrorArrival, creating an immersive experience.
Plus,both films boast stunning cinematography by Greig Fraser, reinforcing a haunting yet awe-inspiring tone.
If you lovedArrivalfor its deep philosophical questions and stunning visuals,Duneoffers another mesmerizing, thought-provoking experience.
Additionally, both movies feature melancholic yet uplifting finales that linger in the mind long after the credits roll.
When it comes to sci-fi puzzle movies, there might not be a better, more complicated film thanPrimer.
Both films reward those who engage deeply with their intricate storytelling, adding to their rewatch value.
The films minimalist yet gripping storytelling and suspenseful twists will appeal to those who enjoyedArrivals intricate narrative structure.
A radio DJ discovers a strange audio signal that could possibly be extraterrestrial in origin.
Fans ofArrivalwho appreciate intelligent, dialogue-driven sci-fi that prioritizes mood and mystery will findThe Vast of Nightcaptivating.
14Sunshine (2007)
Directed By Danny Boyle
Sunshineis perfect for fans of movies likeArrival.
However, it featured anincredible cast including Cillian Murphy, Chris Evans, Rose Byrne, and Michelle Yeoh.
Alex Garland wrote the script for the movie, as well as other movies likeArrival, includingEx MachinaandAnnihilation.
When it comes to smart sci-fi, it doesn’t get much better.
IfArrivals combination of stunning visuals and philosophical depth resonated with you,Sunshineoffers a similarly breathtaking and contemplative journey.
Who is who and what is what becomes a major question in the film.
Both explore human connection through nontraditional narratives, using dreamlike visuals and evocative sound design to communicate complex ideas.
On one hand, it’s a superhero movie.
Ruth (played brilliantly by Gugu Mbatha-Raw) possesses superpowers, causing earthquakes.
The film is also post-apocalyptic, taking place during a severe water shortage in the United States.
But what it’s really about is family.
Both movies focus on self-discovery and acceptance, using science fiction as a means to explore personal transformation.
However, the movie is nowhere near that simple.
Johansson’s alien skins people and impersonates them, all the while driving around Scotland to find more victims.
It sounds absurd, but it’s haunting and dark, punctuated by the eerie soundtrack.
Under the Skinexplores the issues of identity and loneliness, without ever really providing any easy answers.
Both movies challenge the audience to empathize with beings who perceive the world in fundamentally different ways.
Additionally,Under the Skinfeatures an unsettling, otherworldly score that echoesArrivals immersive sound design.
Fans ofArrivalwho appreciate thought-provoking, slow-burn sci-fi with hypnotic visuals will findUnder the Skinto be an unforgettable experience.
While unwittingly going through a series of bizarre experiences, a woman meets a man, perhaps her soul mate, who seems to have gone through similar things.
