The OGs...

(pre-1930s)

The OG SciFi Movies

These films laid the groundwork for the science fiction genre, introducing innovative concepts and visual effects that continue to influence filmmakers today.

NOTE: Earlier movies, like The X-Ray Fiend (1897) and The Astronomer's Dream (1898), were excluded from the below list because they are more accurately classified as fantasy or experimental films rather than true science fiction. While they incorporated elements of speculative technology and whimsical scenarios, they lacked the defining characteristics of the sci-fi genre, such as exploration of futuristic themes, advanced technology, or space travel.

Early cinema often blended genres, making it challenging to categorize some works. However, more refined definitions and historical research show that films like A Trip to the Moon (1902) and The Impossible Voyage (1904) better represent the emergence of science fiction in cinema.

1902: A Trip to the Moon 🇫🇷

Directed by Georges Méliès, this French film is widely considered the first science fiction movie. It depicts a group of astronomers traveling to the Moon, showcasing innovative special effects for its time

1904: The Impossible Voyage 🇫🇷

Another Méliès creation, this film follows explorers journeying to the Sun in a fantastical vehicle, blending adventure with imaginative visuals.

1906: The '?' Motorist 🇬🇧

Directed by Walter R. Booth, this British short features a car that ascends to the stars, combining humor with early special effects. This film may also be known as 'The Mad Motorist' or 'Questionmark Motorist'.

1910: Frankenstein 🇺🇸

Produced by Thomas Edison's studio, this adaptation of Mary Shelley's novel is one of the earliest horror-science fiction crossovers, exploring themes of creation and hubris.

1916: Homunculus 🇩🇪

For this time period I think I can be excused for adding non-cinematic endeavors. This is a six-part silent serial about a man-made superhuman which explores themes of identity, hubris, and scientific ethics. Directed by Otto Ripert, this is now considered lost in parts, but was highly influential at the time.

1918: A Trip to Mars 🇩🇰

Also known as 'Himmelskibet,' this Danish film is considered one of the first feature-length science fiction movies, depicting a peaceful journey to Mars.

1920: The Cabinet of Dr. Caligari 🇩🇪

A German expressionist film directed by Robert Wiene, it combines psychological horror with a surreal narrative, influencing the visual style of future sci-fi and horror films.

1920: Algol – Tragödie der Macht (Algol: Tragedy of Power) 🇩🇪

Hans Werckmeister's film about an alien who gives a man a machine that provides unlimited energy. This was an early metaphor for technological power and corruption.

1924: Aelita: Queen of Mars ☭

Directed by Yakov Protazanov, this Soviet film is one of the earliest full-length science fiction movies, telling the story of a man traveling to Mars and encountering its civilization.

1924: L'inhumaine (The Inhuman Woman) 🇫🇷

Marcel L’Herbier's avant-garde blend of opera, romance, and science fiction. It features futuristic set design and a plot involving resurrection via technology.

1925: The Lost World 🇺🇸

An American movie based on Sir Arthur Conan Doyle’s 1912 novel The Lost World. It was notable for the groundbreaking stop-motion effects by Willis O'Brien (who later did King Kong in 1933).

1927: Metropolis 🇩🇪

My personal favorite, Fritz Lang's German expressionist epic portrays a dystopian future where the divide between the working class and the elite leads to rebellion. It's renowned for its impressive set designs and special effects.

1929: Woman in the Moon 🇩🇪

Another film by Fritz Lang, it presents a serious portrayal of space travel, introducing the concept of a multi-stage rocket and a countdown to launch.

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