Neglected Sci-Fi Horror Film Treasures You Must Watch

      EJ Moreno examines seven overlooked sci-fi horror films that you must see. Prepare to expand your watchlist with a collection of incredible sci-fi horror movies as we delve into the sub-genre's hidden treasures that haunt us at night. Whether you're familiar with these films or discovering them for the first time, this list highlights works that skillfully combine intelligence and terror, similar to classics like Alien and The Thing. Unfortunately, not every film can achieve the same level of acclaim or longevity, so we will explore titles from both celebrated horror icons and indie favorites that you'll quickly grow fond of.

      Join us as we present this list, and feel free to connect with us on social media @FlickeringMyth to share your favorite underappreciated sci-fi horror movies…

      Honorable Mentions:

      - **Street Trash (1987)**: A gritty body horror film that makes Troma seem mild.

      - **Cube (1997)**: One of the most claustrophobic and captivating entries in the genre.

      - **Splice (2009)**: A disturbing film that many moved on from too quickly.

      - **Village of the Damned (1960)**: Long before Alien popularized the fusion of science fiction and horror, Village of the Damned was a trendsetter. The early 1960s marked a shift for horror, moving beyond the B-movies of the 50s into a more mature era influenced by films like Rear Window and Psycho. Village of the Damned skillfully integrates the science-based frights of the 50s with the more intense "it could happen to you" theme of the 60s. Instead of featuring enormous monsters, the terror encroaches into domestic life, rendering the concept of children frightening during a time when the nuclear family was idealized. The anxieties and fears of the period are beautifully encapsulated in this classic sci-fi horror film.

      - **The Crazies (1973)**: Despite a 00s remake, it's surprising how The Crazies is often overlooked among George A. Romero’s masterpieces. After delivering the most iconic zombie film five years earlier, Romero chose to delve into sci-fi while retaining his terror. He ingeniously infused social commentary, illustrating the consequences of governmental cover-ups of their wrongdoings. Similar to the previous entry, it portrays the chilling impact on everyday life. Although The Crazies hasn't received the same recognition as his Dead series, it's fascinating to see how well it has aged.

      - **Lifeforce (1985)**: Tobe Hooper, known for Texas Chainsaw and Poltergeist, ventured into space with Lifeforce between those landmark films. Describing this movie simply as "vampires in space" does a disservice to one of the most outrageous and innovative entries in the sub-genre. While Hooper typically doesn’t go for grand productions, you may be surprised by his unexpected flair for blockbuster filmmaking. It's campy yet filled with thought-provoking concepts. As much as I appreciate the gritty Texas Chain Saw Massacre aspect of Hooper, it's thrilling to see him tackle a genre less explored. All the films featured here are worth watching, but make a point to seek out Lifeforce.

      - **Hardware (1990)**: In his debut film, Richard Stanley fuses metal, horror, and science fiction in this tale of a robot uprising that ushered in the tech-heavy 1990s. Initially poorly received, Hardware has since gained a cult following that celebrates its brutal, punk essence. If you felt Terminator lacked intensity, this film is your ideal match. It's a trippy, chaotic experience, but there's an undeniable coolness to it; the kind of sci-fi horror that makes you exclaim "hell yeah" multiple times. With a soundtrack featuring "Ace of Spades" by Motörhead and its former X-rated classification, it sets the tone for what kind of film you're getting into. Hardware isn’t for everyone, which makes it even more unique; we truly don’t see movies like this anymore.

      - **eXistenZ (1999)**: Even renowned sci-fi horror director David Cronenberg can be overlooked, but there's no reason to miss eXistenZ. It's remarkable how forward-thinking this film was, featuring elements of video games and virtual reality well before they became commonplace. When you combine these aspects with Cronenberg’s signature style of body horror and jarring visuals, it's clear eXistenZ is a must-see. Among his extensive filmography, this one stands out. Moreover, you can't discuss this film without acknowledging the outstanding performances by Jennifer Jason Leigh and Jude Law. Had it not been released so closely to The Matrix, it may have had the opportunity to shine and find its audience.

      - **Splinter (2008)**: In a time overloaded with genre films, it's understandable that Splinter might be forgotten, yet those who have seen it often recall