10 Sci-Fi Films You Must Watch from 1995

      Flickering Myth's Tom Jolliffe revisits 1995 with ten must-see sci-fi film recommendations…

      Science fiction films provide a window into captivating futures, alternate realities, and much more. While these prophetic visions don’t always materialize (2015 didn’t deliver flying cars or Jaws 19), the frequency of Jurassic Park sequels suggests we might be getting close to that number. Occasionally, they do get it right—consider the US's current state reminiscent of Idiocracy and the UK's resembling Terry Gilliam’s Brazil.

      The genre has maintained its appeal over the years, with many visually stunning films falling under the sci-fi umbrella due to the extensive visual possibilities the genre allows. Some sci-fi films have proven to be more enduring than others, much like the previously mentioned Brazil, Jurassic Park, and the iconic visuals of Blade Runner, which have been endlessly imitated.

      But what about the sci-fi offerings from 1995? Let’s take a nostalgic look back three decades to identify some essential films and gauge how well they have aged, as well as whether any of their dystopian forecasts or technologies have come to life. Here are ten key sci-fi films from 1995…

      Screamers

      Science fiction extends far beyond cinema; literary sci-fi has captivated readers for centuries. One of the genre's most prominent figures is Philip K. Dick, whose works have frequently been translated into film, including Total Recall and Blade Runner. Among these adaptations is Screamers, a low-budget Canadian treasure directed by Christian Duguay, based on one of Dick’s stories.

      The inclusion of genre heavyweight Dan O'Bannon among the screenwriters adds depth to this enjoyable B-movie sci-fi horror. The film features an intriguing premise involving battle robots that evolve and become able to imitate humans, complemented by a commanding performance from Peter Weller. While it has its rough patches and a climax that doesn’t fully hit the mark, Screamers is still an entertaining watch. The theme of AI learning, evolving, and straying from its basic programming feels quite relevant today.

      Johnny Mnemonic

      Initially criticized upon its release, Johnny Mnemonic kicked off a somewhat troublesome phase of sci-fi for Keanu Reeves, including Chain Reaction in the following year. By the time The Matrix debuted, expectations weren’t particularly high. However, that film shattered those low anticipations with remarkable style.

      In the last 15 years, Johnny Mnemonic's reputation has steadily improved, especially as campy cyberpunk media has gained traction. Its distinctive style, oddities, and Keanu's performance—which oscillates between vacant and dramatically intense—have attracted a following. The movie's themes about information warfare and sinister corporate agendas feel increasingly relevant today. Plus, Dolph Lundgren appears as a deranged preacher, whose flesh is gradually consumed by his various robotic upgrades.

      Tank Girl

      Based on the comic series, Rachel Talalay's film was initially received much like an awkward moment in a crowded elevator. However, it has gained a more favorable reputation over time, much like a lingering scent of roses and citrus after a less than pleasant experience. Tank Girl, which also features Ice-T like Johnny Mnemonic, is now viewed with greater appreciation.

      The film's quirky cyberpunk aesthetic resonates more with contemporary audiences than in the '90s, possessing early hints of films like Birds of Prey and the whimsical style of Taika Waititi's blockbusters. Although these films can be divisive, they still have their fans. Lori Petty delivers an eccentric portrayal of Tank Girl, and although I can’t speak to the accuracy of her depiction compared to the source material, she shines in this role. Additionally, Malcolm McDowell brings a flamboyant performance to the film.

      Fist of the North Star

      This long-standing manga has had countless adaptations in print, anime, and is set to receive another anime reboot. The popular post-apocalyptic saga of Kenshiro has already seen a live-action adaptation, this 1995 film directed by Tony Randel being slightly flawed yet entertaining.

      Gary Daniels, a British kickboxer turned action star of the '90s, plays Kenshiro (who may not have been the best fit) and showcases his martial arts skills. The film features impressive visual landscapes, creating a lot from a modest budget, with Randel's horror background contributing positively to the aesthetics. Some of the fight choreography, influenced by a traditional Western approach with multicam and long takes, frustrated Daniels, who had just worked alongside Jackie Chan in City Hunter. The segmented, time-consuming style of Hong Kong action films only gained recognition in the West following the success of The Matrix.

      Interestingly, this film's cyberpunk theme resonates better now than it did then, enhanced by memorable performances from Chris Penn, Malcolm McDowell (once again), and Costas Mandylor. It features a typical megalomaniacal villain—a concept that remains relevant