Dune 2 and Other Sci-Fi Movies Rated Over 8 on IMDb

Sci-fi enthusiasts are in for a treat, courtesy of the monumental release of Dune: Part 2. The long-awaited sequel has soared to the pinnacle of science fiction greatness with an IMDb rating of 9/10.

Under the masterful direction of Denis Villeneuve, the saga of Frank Herbert’s epic unfolds, inviting viewers into a world of intrigue and adventure. As we delve deeper into the world of Arrakis, alongside stars like Timothée Chalamet and Zendaya, Dune 2 sets a new standard for cinematic excellence.

Dune 2’s stellar rating of 9 on IMDb marks it as the highest-rated sci-fi film on the platform, surpassing previous classics like Avengers: Endgame (8.4) and Avatar (7.8). If the buzz surrounding this 2024 classic has piqued your interest in sci-fi wonders, we have compiled a list of the best sci-fi movies according to IMDb ratings.

From the multiverse adventures of Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse (2023) to the mind-bending dreamscape of Christopher Nolan‘s Inception (2010), each film offers a glimpse into the boundless possibilities of science fiction, challenging our perceptions and inspiring us to dream beyond the stars.

20 best sci-fi movies of all time, according to IMDb scores

From the big release of Dune: Part 2 to some groundbreaking classics by Christopher Nolan and Ridley Scott, here is a list of the highest-rated sci-fi movies of all time, arranged by IMDb rankings. 

1. Dune: Part 2 (2024)

IMDb rating: 9/10

Director: Denis Villeneuve

Cast: Timothée Chalamet, Zendaya, Rebecca Ferguson, Austin Butler, Christopher Walken

The long-awaited Dune: Part 2 finally graced cinemas on 1 March 2024, completing the cinematic adaptation of Frank Herbert’s revered Science fiction epic. Under Denis Villeneuve’s direction, the saga expands into an enthralling spectacle that mesmerises and provokes contemplation.

Continuing from its predecessor, Dune 2 delves deeper into the journey of Paul Atreides (Chalamet) as he embraces his role as Muad’Dib among the Fremen. The narrative unfolds against the backdrop of the Fremen’s struggle against House Harkonnen for control of Arrakis. Zendaya’s Chani adds depth to Paul’s story, while Ferguson’s Lady Jessica navigates the intricate prophecy surrounding her son’s destiny.

As tensions escalate, Paul confronts the Harkonnens, particularly Baron Vladimir Harkonnen (Skarsgård) and his nephew Feyd-Rautha Harkonnen (Butler), in a bid to claim the throne. The film’s conclusion echoes Paul’s prophetic visions, imbuing the finale with tragic undertones, setting the stage for future instalments in the Dune saga.

2. Inception (2010)

IMDb rating: 8.8/10

Director: Christopher Nolan

Cast: Leonardo DiCaprio, Ken Watanabe, Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Marion Cotillard, Elliot Page, Tom Hardy

Christopher Nolan’s Inception stands as one of the best sci-fi films to have ever been made. It is, in fact, Nolan’s most awe-inspiring and intellectually riveting creations. This Oscar-winning thriller revolves around Dom Cobb (DiCaprio) and his team of skilled operatives, whose expertise lies in infiltrating the subconscious minds of their targets to extract valuable information. However, Cobb is confronted with an extraordinary challenge when tasked with implanting an idea instead of stealing one.

Inception captivates audiences with its intricate dreamscapes and the profound exploration of the human psyche, inviting viewers to ponder the nature of perception and reality. The film’s innovative premise challenges conventional storytelling norms, propelling the sci-fi genre to new dimensions of creativity and philosophical inquiry.

3. Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse (2023) 

IMDb rating: 8.8/10

Director: Joaquim Dos Santos, Kemp Powers and Justin K. Thompson

Cast: Shameik Moore, Hailee Steinfeld, Oscar Isaac, Jake Johnson

Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse is the sequel to the acclaimed Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse (2018) and unfolds within the expansive multiverse of alternate realities known as the Spider-Verse. With its predecessors’ success looming large, fans and critics approached this sequel with scepticism. Yet, against these towering expectations, the superhero epic not only met but exceeded them, thrusting Miles Morales’ narrative into a multiverse teeming with similarly empowered individuals.

This animated masterpiece embarks viewers on a visually captivating journey across dimensions as Morales joins forces with Spider-Woman, Gwen Stacy, encountering a collective of Spider-People led by Spider-Man 2099. 

As one of the highest-rated sci-fi movies on Netflix, Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse boasts arresting visuals and a riveting narrative, leaving audiences eagerly awaiting the forthcoming Spider-Man: Beyond the Spider-Verse. Another development of a female-centric spin-off titled Spider-Woman promises to further expand the Spider-Verse.

4. Interstellar (2014)

IMDb rating: 8.7/10

Director: Christopher Nolan

Cast: Matthew McConaughey, Anne Hathaway, Jessica Chastain, Michael Caine, Bill Irwin, Casey Affleck

Yet another of Nolan’s classic sci-fi films, Interstellar unfolds against the backdrop of a desolate Earth, a world in the throes of ecological collapse and dwindling hope for survival. The narrative centres on former NASA pilot Joseph Cooper (McConaughey), who embarks on a perilous journey into the depths of space to explore potentially habitable planets beyond a newly discovered wormhole.

The film transcends traditional Science fiction tropes, deftly weaving together themes of exploration, sacrifice and the endearing bond between parent and child. Against the canvas of space, the film navigates the intricacies of theoretical physics while immersing viewers in a visual treat of cosmic wonder.

5. The Matrix (1999) 

IMDb rating: 8.7/10

Directors: Lilly Wachowski, Lana Wachowski

Cast: Keanu Reeves, Laurence Fishburne, Carrie-Anne Moss, Hugo Weaving, Gloria Foster, Joe Pantoliano

Regarded by many as the pinnacle of the Matrix franchise, the Wachowskis’ inaugural entry into the series remains one of the highest-rated sci-fi films, according to IMDb. The Matrix introduces audiences to Thomas Anderson (Reeves), known by his hacker alias Neo, a seemingly ordinary computer programmer who goes on a journey of self-discovery upon uncovering the truth about his simulated reality. Joining forces with the resistance, Neo confronts the oppressive regime of extraterrestrial overlords to liberate humanity from the shackles of illusion and control.

Set in a dystopian future where humanity languishes within the confines of the Matrix, a virtual construct engineered by intelligent machines, the film explores themes of perception, reality and the nature of existence. Drawing inspiration from cyberpunk literature and anime, the Wachowskis infuse the narrative with kinetic energy, blending martial arts choreography and innovative visual effects to create a cinematic experience like no other.

6. Star Wars: Episode V – The Empire Strikes Back (1980)

IMDb rating: 8.7/10

Director: Irvin Kershner

Cast: Mark Hamill, Harrison Ford, Carrie Fisher, Billy Dee Williams

Directed by Irvin Kershner, Star Wars: Episode V – The Empire Strikes Back continues the saga of the epic space opera, immersing audiences in a gripping battle between the valiant rebels, led by Princess Leia (Fisher), and the oppressive forces of the Empire under Emperor Palpatine’s rule. Amidst the turmoil, Luke Skywalker (Hamill) undergoes rigorous training under the tutelage of Jedi Master Yoda (voiced by Frank Oz), as he prepares to confront the formidable Sith Lord, Darth Vader (portrayed by David Prowse, voiced by James Earl Jones), in a climactic showdown.

This highest-rated Star Wars instalment is revered for its umpteen iconic moments that have solidified its status as a beloved entry in the franchise and a cornerstone of sci-fi cinema. From the breathtaking battle sequences to the gripping character development, The Empire Strikes Back enraptures audiences with its rich narrative and unparalleled sense of adventure.

Beyond its immediate impact, the film has ignited a cultural phenomenon that transcends generations. Its legacy continues to inspire fan clubs, spinoffs, parodies, merchandise and a myriad of creative expressions, underscoring its timeless appeal and lasting significance in the realm of science fiction movies. 

7. Terminator 2: Judgment Day (1991)

IMDb rating: 8.6/10

Director: James Cameron

Cast: Arnold Schwarzenegger, Linda Hamilton, Edward Furlong, Robert Patrick, Earl Boen, Joe Morton

Terminator 2: Judgment Day, the sequel to The Terminator (1984) is the second instalment in the Terminator franchise. This sci-fi action extravaganza centres around the fate of John Connor (Furlong), the future leader of the rebellion against the tyrannical Skynet regime. Hunted by the relentless and shape-shifting T-1000 (Patrick), John finds an unexpected ally in the form of the reprogrammed T-800 Terminator (Schwarzenegger) sent back in time by the resistance.

Building upon the foundation laid by its predecessor, Terminator 2 emerges as a cinematic gem, surpassing the original in scale, ambition and spectacle. The introduction of the T-1000 injects new life into the franchise, raising the stakes and delivering exhilarating action sequences that push the boundaries of visual effects technology.

Upon its release in 1991, the movie garnered widespread critical acclaim and shattered box office records, cementing its status as a cultural phenomenon. Its staggering commercial success, coupled with an array of prestigious awards, including Saturn, BAFTA and Academy accolades, solidifies its place as one of the best sci-fi films of all time.

8. Star Wars: Episode IV – A New Hope (1977)

IMDb rating: 8.6/10

Director: George Lucas

Cast: Mark Hamill, Harrison Ford, Carrie Fisher, Peter Cushing, Alec Guinness, Anthony Daniels

Star Wars: Episode IV – A New Hope is an epic space opera that introduces audiences to the sweeping conflict between the oppressive Galactic Empire and the valiant Rebel Alliance, while also showcasing iconic characters such as Luke Skywalker (Hamill), Han Solo (Ford), and Princess Leia Organa (Fisher).

A masterpiece ahead of its time, A New Hope transports viewers to a galaxy far, far away, where unparalleled visual effects and imaginative storytelling redefine the possibilities of science-fiction cinema. Its portrayal of breathtaking space battles and evocative interstellar landscapes establishes the genre as a cultural touchstone.

Decades after its release, A New Hope remains a cherished classic, cherished by legions of fans who have made revisiting the Skywalker Saga a beloved tradition. As the inaugural chapter of the Star Wars saga, it sets the stage for a rich tapestry of storytelling that spans generations.

9. The Prestige (2006)

IMDb rating: 8.5/10

Director: Christopher Nolan

Cast: Christian Bale, Hugh Jackman, Scarlett Johansson, Michael Caine

Set in late 19th-century London, The Prestige unravels the fierce rivalry between two stage magicians. Robert Angier (Jackman) and Alfred Borden (Bale) are consumed by their determination to prove supremacy in their craft, willing to stake everything to execute unprecedented feats on stage. Obsession, secrecy and sacrifice fuel the battle, as both magicians compete in a deadly duel of one-upmanship.

The infusion of science fiction emerges as the magicians resort to increasingly daring and perilous experiments to outshine each other. Nolan skillfully integrates sci-fi elements, heightening the psychological tension and transforming the thriller into a gripping race towards a tragic conclusion.

10. Alien (1979)

IMDb rating: 8.5/10

Director: Ridley Scott

Cast: Sigourney Weaver, Tom Skerritt, John Hurt, Veronica Cartwright, Harry Dean Stanton

Regarded as one of the finest and highest-rated sci-fi movies, Alien stands as a cinematic legend. The story revolves around the crew of the space tug Nostromo, who chance upon an eerie abandoned spaceship. Unknowingly, their discovery leads to a deadly encounter with an extraterrestrial entity, threatening their very survival.

Scott adeptly merges science fiction and horror, crafting an atmosphere steeped in eerie silence and suspense. The movie was met with mixed reviews on release but was a box-office success, winning the Academy Award for Best Visual Effects along with three Saturn Awards and a Hugo Award for Best Dramatic Presentation. Notably, the alien creature remains shrouded in mystery until the final moments of this enthralling tale.

Despite its release over four decades ago, Alien is considered a timeless classic, retaining its power to captivate audiences even today.

11. Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse (2018)

IMDb rating: 8.4/10

Director: Bob Persichetti, Peter Ramsey, Rodney Rothman

Cast: Shameik Moore, Jake Johnson, Hailee Steinfeld, Mahershala Ali, Nicolas Cage

Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse, released in 2018, injected new vitality into the superhero genre. The animated film introduces Brooklyn’s Miles Morales (Moore) as he grapples with his identity as Spider-Man. As the multiverse fractures, Morales teams up with alternate Spider-People to thwart Kingpin and save New York City.

Drawing from iconic comic arcs, the film pays homage to its source material while appealing to new fans. Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse was indeed a refreshing addition to the franchise.

12. Avengers: Endgame (2019)

IMDb rating: 8.4/10

Directors: Anthony Russo, Joe Russo

Cast: Robert Downey Jr., Chris Evans, Mark Ruffalo, Chris Hemsworth, Scarlett Johansson, Josh Brolin

In the grand culmination of The Infinity Saga, Avengers: EndGame brings together the surviving members of the Avengers and their allies in a final attempt to reverse the catastrophic aftermath of Thanos’ (Brolin) snap. As they grapple with the implications of their actions, uncertainty looms over the enduring legacy of Earth’s mightiest heroes.

The film pulsates with exhilarating action and compelling sci-fi elements, weaving a narrative that spans years and confronts the very fate of existence itself. Avengers: EndGame presents the Avengers with their most daunting challenge yet in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Its impactful scenes continue to spark discussion and admiration among fans, cementing its status as a remarkable entry in the superhero genre.

13. Aliens (1986)

IMDb rating: 8.4/10

Director: James Cameron

Cast: Sigourney Weaver, Michael Biehn, William Hope, Jenette Goldstein, Carrie Henn, Paul Reiser, Lance Henriksen

In the riveting sequel to Alien, Weaver returns as the indomitable Ellen Ripley awakened from decades of cryo-sleep. Joining a team dispatched to a colony threatened by potential alien infiltration, Ripley is dismayed by the pervasive underestimation of the extraterrestrial threat.

The movie elevates the franchise with its superior special effects, immersive world-building, and nuanced exploration of Ripley’s relationships. Director Cameron deftly crafts a narrative brimming with suspenseful twists, showcasing Ripley’s unwavering resilience in the face of relentless danger. Widely hailed as one of the best sci-fi sequels, Aliens merits accolades and warrants repeated viewing for its unparalleled intensity and gripping storytelling.

14. Avengers: Infinity War (2018)

IMDb rating: 8.4/10

Directors: Anthony Russo, Joe Russo

Cast: Robert Downey Jr., Chris Evans, Mark Ruffalo, Scarlett Johansson, Josh Brolin

The culmination of Phase Three unfolds in Avengers: Infinity War, where the possession of the Infinity Stones by Thanos (Brolin) threatens the very fabric of existence. Positioned among the top sci-fi films, its narrative arc inexorably converges towards a breathtaking climax, focusing on Thanos’ cataclysmic snap and its harrowing aftermath.

The film etches poignant moments as it depicts some of the MCU’s most heart-rending deaths, with beloved heroes and allies disintegrating into dust — a surreal and distressing experience for audiences. As the repercussions of Thanos’ actions reverberate, anticipation mounts for retribution or, at the very least, an explanation for the havoc unleashed upon the universe.

15. WALL-E (2008)

IMDb rating: 8.4/10

Director: Andrew Stanton

Cast: Ben Burtt, Elissa Knight, Jeff Garlin, Fred Willard, MacInTalk, John Ratzenberger

Next on our list of highest-rated sci-fi movies, according to IMDb, is 2008’s WALL-E, a movie that paints a poignant picture of a world overwhelmed by garbage, depicting a bleak future for humanity. With mankind evacuated to a lavish spacecraft, where they rely on screens for communication, robots for service, and levitating seats for mobility, the film underscores humanity’s struggle for survival.

Upon its release, WALL-E enthralled audiences and critics alike with its compelling narrative, endearing characters — particularly the titular protagonist — and surprisingly emotive sequences. The animated masterpiece resonated deeply, earning acclaim and recognition, including the prestigious Academy Award for Best Animated Picture in 2009.

16. 2001: A Space Odyssey (1968)

IMDb rating: 8.3/10

Director: Stanley Kubrick

Cast: Keir Dullea, Gary Lockwood, William Sylvester, Daniel Richter, Leonard Rossiter

Stanley Kubrick’s 2001: A Space Odyssey stands as an iconic masterpiece in the realm of Science fiction, requiring no preamble. Its ambitious narrative spans millennia, pivoting around the discovery of a monolith that prompts a crew’s expedition into the unknown. Alongside the enigmatic AI HAL 9000, they navigate through surreal and mind-bending encounters.

Boasting breathtaking visuals, a transcendent musical score, and a profoundly philosophical narrative, 2001: A Space Odyssey emerges as the archetypal space opera, redefining the possibilities of the genre. While initially met with mixed reception, Kubrick’s opus has since ascended to cult status, revered as a cinematic landmark that reshaped the landscape of science fiction storytelling.

17. Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind (2004)

IMDb rating: 8.3/10

Director: Michel Gondry

Cast: Jim Carrey, Kate Winslet, Gerry Robert Byrne, Elijah Wood, Thomas Jay Ryan, Mark Ruffalo

Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind is a masterpiece that transcends the boundaries of traditional romance, offering a profound exploration of human connection and the complexities of heartache.

In a world where memories can be erased at will, Joel (Carrey) and Clementine (Winslet) embark on a tumultuous journey through the corridors of their own minds. As they grapple with the painful aftermath of their breakup, they confront the blurred lines between remembrance and oblivion, yearning to preserve the fragments of their shared past even as they fade into obscurity.

Michel Gondry’s visionary direction crafts a narrative that is visually stunning and emotionally resonant. From surreal dream sequences to heart-wrenching moments of vulnerability, Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind captivates audiences with its raw authenticity and unflinching honesty.

18. A Clockwork Orange (1971)

IMDb rating: 8.3/10

Director: Stanley Kubrick

Cast: Malcolm McDowell, Patrick Magee, Michael Bates, Warren Clarke, John Clive, Adrienne Corri

Set in a dystopian England, Kubrick’s A Clockwork Orange portrays a society where violence and delinquency reign as societal norms. The narrative follows Alex (McDowell) and his “Droogs” as they sow chaos and inflict harm, leading to the exploration of sci-fi elements where Alex undergoes radical rehabilitation using technology that alters his behaviour. The film’s blend of surrealism and science fiction has garnered acclaim, contributing to its high rating.

This sci-fi gem immerses viewers in a disconcerting world that challenges conventional notions of morality. Through Alex’s journey, the film prompts reflections on the nature of evil and delves into political discourse regarding the boundaries of governmental control over individual autonomy.

19. Star Wars: Episode VI – Return of the Jedi (1983)

IMDb rating: 8.3/10

Director: George Lucas

Cast: Mark Hamill, Harrison Ford, Carrie Fisher, Peter Cushing, Alec Guinness, Anthony Daniels

A galactic adventure like no other, Star Wars: Episode VI – Return of the Jedi is the iconic third instalment in George Lucas’s original Star Wars trilogy. The film continues the epic saga of Luke Skywalker (Hamill) and his valiant companions as they confront the tyrannical grip of the Galactic Empire.

Set against the backdrop of a galaxy in turmoil, Return of the Jedi follows Luke Skywalker’s ongoing struggle against the forces of darkness, alongside the indomitable Han Solo (Ford) and the courageous Princess Leia (Fisher). Together, they embark on a daring mission to thwart the sinister plans of Emperor Palpatine and his nefarious apprentice, Darth Vader.

As the culmination of the Skywalker Saga, Return of the Jedi captivated audiences worldwide, becoming a monumental blockbuster phenomenon with an earning of a staggering USD 475 million.

20. Metropolis (1927)

IMDb rating: 8.3/10

Director: Fritz Lang

Cast: Brigitte Helm, Alfred Abel, Gustav Fröhlich

Metropolis rounds off our list of top 20 highest-rated sci-fi films according to IMDb rankings. This groundbreaking sci-fi masterpiece dates back almost a century and defies the boundaries of time and imagination.

At its core, Metropolis is a sincere exploration of class struggle and societal inequality, set against the backdrop of a sprawling city where the elite thrives in luxury while the working class toils under oppressive conditions. As the privileged son of the city’s ruler, Freder (Gustav Fröhlich) becomes awakened to the plight of the workers, he embarks on a transformative journey that challenges the very foundations of his existence.

From its towering skyscrapers to its labyrinthine underworld, Metropolis transports viewers to a dystopian future where technology and ambition collide with the human spirit. What truly sets the film apart is its revolutionary set design and visual effects, which continue to astonish audiences to date. Through innovative techniques and meticulous attention to detail, Lang brings to life a vibrant and immersive cityscape that remains unmatched in its grandeur and scale.

(Main and feature image: Courtesy IMDb/Dune: Part 2/Interstellar)

This story first appeared on Augustman India.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

– Which is the highest-rated sci-fi movie of all time according to IMDb?
Boasting a rating of 9.1/10, the recently released Dune: Part 2 is the highest-rated movie of all time, according to IMDb.

– Which is the highest-rated sci-fi movie according to IMDb available to watch on Netflix?
The 2023 movie Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse is the highest-rated sci-fi movie available to watch on Netflix with an IMDb rating of 8.8/10.