Join me, and together we’ll…watch all of these movies.

The Matrix (1999)

I’m never usually a fan of sci fi, but it’s so full of action you almost forget about the sci fi part of it all. It’s overall just a brilliant movie that everyone should watch at least once.
—gracem01

Warner Bros.

Terminator 2: Judgement Day (1991)

This one is a sci fi movie disguised as an action movie, and is a certified CLASSIC. Who wouldn’t want to watch two AI robots from the future battling it out for the fate of humanity?
—booklacquer

Carolco Pictures

Arrival (2016)

At its heart, it’s a movie about humans and human nature. It’s just framed in the guise of an alien flick, so it has a lot of those classic sci fi moments, but it’s also got so many bigger themes in it as well. It begs us to be better, to look beyond our fears, and see potential in the future and what it might hold and to embrace it, rather than fearing the possibility of hurt.
—malloriel

FilmNation Entertainment

Pacific Rim (2013)

Just a bunch of nerd interests (giant robots, giant monsters, Idris Elba, etc) jammed together, but in a fun, new way. I’ve forced a lot of my non-sci fi friends to watch it and they’ve all been surprised to find they enjoy it!
—holdyourcolour

Warner Bros.

Alien (1979)

The original is less a sci fi movie and more a horror movie, but it retains many classic sci fi elements, which would be a great way to slowly work someone into the genre. Plus, it’s just a damn good movie.
—angelicaschurch

20th Century Fox

Guardians of the Galaxy (2014)

It has the perfect mix of action and vintage humor that an even larger demographic than the sci fi fandom will appreciate, as well as an easily comprehensible plot and very enjoyable character development, AND THAT SOUNDTRACK.
—mollyt011

Marvel Studios

Inception (2010)

Christopher Nolan’s multilayered phenomenon of a dream within a dream within a dream. It’s lengthy, but you walk away with so many questions and concepts that you will want to watch it over again.
—jeanettec439d752da

Legendary Pictures

The Chronicles of Riddick (2004)

I showed my husband, a firm nonbeliever in the sci fi genre, because it’s got enough camp to it. It’s a fun, fast paced movie that served its purpose as a good introduction to the genre. Plus, I’ll take any excuse to watch Vin Diesel for awhile.
—maryd442cad04e

Universal Pictures

Chappie (2015)

I honestly can’t believe no one’s mentioned this one yet! Set in south Africa, the plot is about A.I. and the cast includes Dev Patel, Hugh Jackman, and even the queen of sci fi (imho), Sigourney Weaver. Really a must watch!
—rachaelmroz

Columbia Pictures

Men in Black (1997)

I remember seeing my mom watch it in her room and I asked if I could join. It made me love Will Smith even more than I already did!
—jasmine3624

Columbia Pictures

The Martian (2015)

It’s the easiest to get into because of the main character. He’s the most normal, unremarkable sci fi character ever.
—calicdanx

20th Century Fox

Logan’s Run (1976)

One of my favorites. It may be old school, but it’s concept is fascinating. For a real treat, watch it with commentary. Michael York’s voice never gets old.
—jbrown378

Metro–Goldwyn–Mayer

The Fifth Element (1997)

Of course! All of the action is great, and I still have yet to find someone that doesn’t appreciate this movie!
—trashpoc

Columbia Pictures

Interstellar (2014)

It’s shot beautifully, the soundtrack is perfect, it features a cast of A-list actors, and tells an amazing story! It will leave anyone breathless and mesmerized, sci fi fan or not.
—zachc46f1c87fc

Paramount Pictures

Galaxy Quest (1999)

If you like comedy in general, this is an obvious choice.
—cb27

Dreamworks Productions

Back to the Future (1985)

I love this film so much, despite the fact that I’m not much of a sci fi fan myself. Sidenote, it’s already 2017 and I’m still waiting for those flying cars.
—mnzjmee22

Amblin Entertainment

They Live (1988)

It doesn’t take itself too seriously, and it stars the legendary Roddy Piper (RIP). It’s a fun, campy movie for everyone to love!
—lizzyw4961ae5c5

Alive Films

Children of Men (2006)

This is grim, brutal, and grey; but it also takes you in a deeply emotional journey that makes you think about what it means to keep hope alive in the darkest of situations. It’s a great example of how sci fi genre trappings can elevate a story and bring out themes in a new and relevant way.
—leahc465218359

Universal Pictures

District 9 (2009)

It would be a hard sell to a non-sci fi lover, given the plot and overall storyline; however, it’s so well executed and beautifully directed that the viewer can’t help but become emotionally invested by 20 minutes into the film. Not to mention, the visual effects and action scenes are so FUN!
—k4b3d8a1b2

Sony Pictures

Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind (2004)

If someone hated sci fi, I’d start them out with something relatable to other genres. This movie inserts a sci fi twist into a normal human drama, and is such a great movie on so many different levels.
—angiew7

Focus Features

Blade Runner (1982)

This movie is a must-see for EVERYONE. Yes, there are certainly parts of it that may feel “nerdy,” but besides that it’s not really about just chasing cyborgs. It’s about what it really means to be human and how we should take responsibility for our creations. If the watcher doesn’t like sci fi, it can be interpreted as a detective story, a philosophical tale, a neo-noir film, or whatever they see in it! It’s proper sci fi at its best, because all the futuristic stuff is just a cover for the metaphorical meaning of it.
—paulinab429b56b76

Warner Bros.

Star Wars (1977)

A classic example of the genre at its best that has good mix of heart, humor, great characters, and an interesting story. Plus…it’s STAR WARS.
—novacaineblues

LucasFilm