Roger Ebert's Hidden Gems: Top 9 Obscure Sci-Fi Movies He Adored

9. Timecrimes (2009) - A Temporal Puzzle

Starting our journey through Roger Ebert's eclectic taste in sci-fi is 'Timecrimes.' A mind-bending time travel thriller that may have left some scratching their heads, but found favor in Ebert's eyes. Ebert admired the film's capability to engage the audience with a low budget, and praised its suspenseful narrative that turned temporal paradoxes into an art form. Despite its complex narrative, 'Timecrimes' was recommended by Ebert for those who relish thought-provoking and intricate science fiction.

Hector (Karra Elejalde) covered in bandages in Timecrimes

8. The Andromeda Strain (1971) - A Realistic Space Odyssey

At number eight, 'The Andromeda Strain' breaks into our list as a film that captured Ebert's admiration for its realistic depiction of astronauts in deep space. Though the film's emotional depth may not have matched its scientific rigor, Ebert appreciated its subtle layers and urged viewers to engage with its underlying themes of artificial intelligence and future human societies. Michael Crichton's storytelling combined with the film's production design resonated with Ebert, marking it as a significant yet underappreciated entry in the sci-fi genre.

Arthur Hill as Dr. Jeremy Stone, David Wayne as Dr. Charles Dutton, Kate Reid as Dr. Ruth Leavitt, and James Olson as Dr. Mark Hall standing beside each other in The Andromeda Strain

7. Equilibrium (2002) - Dystopian Kinetics

Landing at the seventh spot is 'Equilibrium,' a film that, despite its echoes of dystopian classics, impressed Ebert with its stylish action and aesthetic appeal. Ebert's review highlighted the 'sneaky' advancement of the film's philosophy amidst its gun battles, and he couldn't help but resonate with its depiction of a society grappling with oppression and censorship. Ebert's three-star rating acknowledged the film's contributions to the dystopian narrative, emphasizing its 'pure kinetic energy' as a noteworthy element of its storytelling.

Cleric John Preston (Christian Bale) dramatically standing in a smoky alley right before a fight scene in Equilibrium

6. Monsters (2010) - An Allegory of Isolation and Invasion

Halfway through our list at number six is 'Monsters,' a film that managed to capture Ebert's praise for its innovative use of a limited budget. Director Gareth Edwards' dual roles as director and visual effects artist did not go unnoticed by Ebert, who highlighted the film's relevant commentary on border politics and unseen enemies. While some may find the pacing slow, Ebert argued that it allowed for a richer character exploration and a more profound understanding of the world they inhabit.

Andrew Kaulder (Scoot McNairy) standing under a mural depicting the mostly unseen aliens in Monsters

5. Total Recall (2012) - A Remake That Resonates

At number five, the 2012 remake of 'Total Recall' may not have echoed with Ebert as strongly as the original, but it still earned his appreciation. Ebert noted Farrell's superior acting chops, yet acknowledged Schwarzenegger's unique screen presence in the original. Despite falling short of some expectations, Ebert still saw merit in the film as a worthy Philip K. Dick adaptation, giving it a solid three stars and recognizing it as a commendable effort within the sci-fi realm.

Quaid (Colin Farrell) undergoing a dangerous brain procedure in the Total Recall remake

4. Titan A.E. (2000) - Animated Space Odyssey

Coming in at number four, 'Titan A.E.' stands out as an animated feature that lived up to Ebert's longing for a space adventure unrestricted by the limitations of live-action. Ebert's review celebrated the film's imaginative vision and its ability to weave an engaging story, despite the familiarity of its plot and characters. 'Titan A.E.' for Ebert represented a significant leap for animation in the portrayal of the vastness and oddity of the universe, earning it a place among his top sci-fi picks.

Cale Tucker (Matt Damon) sits in a spaceship in Titan A.E.

3. Gattaca (1997) - A Vision of Genetic Destiny

Approaching the top, 'Gattaca' secures the third spot on our list with Ebert's glowing endorsement as a smart and provocative film. Ebert admired its suspenseful approach and the explorations of class struggles born from genetic engineering. With a society where DNA dictates one's path, 'Gattaca' impressed Ebert with its focus on ideas and character development, rather than relying solely on visual effects. The compelling performances and the film's thoughtful narrative earned it high praise from the esteemed critic.

Jerome (Jude Law) smoking a cigarette amid dramatic lighting in Gattaca

2. Dark City (1998) - A Nocturnal Noir

Just shy of the top spot, 'Dark City' emerges as a cult favorite that won Ebert's admiration for its fusion of sci-fi and film noir. Ebert was captivated by the film's richly detailed world and its existential musings on the nature of reality. Praising its depth and imagination, 'Dark City' for Ebert was an exemplary work of art that achieved the same philosophical impact as 'The Matrix,' albeit with more emotion and originality, hence its placement at a commendable second place.

John Murdoch (Rufus Sewell) standing near a clock shop in Dark City

1. Cloud Atlas (2012) - An Ambitious Cinematic Tapestry

Topping our list is 'Cloud Atlas,' a movie that, despite its box office struggles, received Ebert's highest acclaim. The film's daring narrative structure and visual marvels were not lost on Ebert, who described it as a cinematic experiment that showcased the magic and dreamlike qualities of cinema. The interconnected storytelling and the actors' versatility across various timelines and characters left a significant impression on Ebert, ultimately earning it the top position among the obscure sci-fi movies he cherished.

Dr. Henry Goose (Tom Hanks) and a native woman (Halle Berry) reacting dramatically to something offscreen in Cloud Atlas