As the summer heat intensifies, it’s the perfect time to stay indoors, enjoy the cool comfort of air conditioning, and watch some great movies. Summer movies offer a unique thrill, delivering fun, excitement, and plenty of action. This season isn’t quite right for slow-burn thrillers or intense dramas; it’s all about vibrant, adrenaline-pumping films that match the energetic vibe of summer.
Summer is the perfect season for enjoying big box office blockbusters, effects-laden crowd-pleasers, and feel-good favorites. Netflix, the powerhouse streaming service, offers a vast selection of great movies ideal for summer viewing, including numerous sci-fi hits. Here are five fantastic sci-fi movies currently streaming on Netflix that you won’t want to miss this summer.
Godzilla Minus One (2023)
“Godzilla Minus One” has made a significant impact worldwide. Initially a massive success in Japan, the film eventually received a global theatrical release. Remarkably, it won the Oscar for Best Visual Effects at the 2024 Oscars. Set in the Tohoverse, the movie features the iconic Godzilla, who wreaks havoc on Japan shortly after the end of World War II.
“Godzilla Minus One” is a triumphant return to the roots of the Godzilla franchise, recapturing the thrilling “Godzilla-destroys-a-city” essence that made the monster an iconic figure. While the MonsterVerse has its appeal, not everyone is drawn to the new kaiju-focused Hollow Earth storyline. For fans nostalgic for the classic style of Godzilla movies, this film is a must-see. It also boasts the grand Hollywood blockbuster feel that makes it the perfect summer movie experience.
Atlas (2024)
Imagine Jennifer Lopez, stranded on an alien planet, piloting a giant mech suit armed with massive guns. “Atlas” may not be the epitome of cinematic excellence, but it’s undeniably a fun and thrilling ride. Hollywood rarely explores the world of mechs, and as any Titanfall fan will tell you, giant human-controlled robots are incredibly cool and deserve more attention on the big screen.
In the film, J-Lo takes on the mission of tracking down a villain bent on destroying humanity and establishing a new AI regime. While the AI theme might feel a bit overdone and cliché, the movie truly shines with its mech action and planetary adventures. The plot clearly takes a backseat to the action, but that’s perfectly fine. “Atlas” offers a light, entertaining watch that doesn’t demand too much thought or attention, making it an ideal choice for unwinding on a hot summer night after a long, exhausting day.
Back to the Future (1985)
“Back to the Future” is a timeless classic for good reason: it’s simply exceptional. In the film, Marty McFly, played by Michael J. Fox, travels back to 1955 using a time-traveling DeLorean created by the eccentric inventor Emmet “Doc” Brown, portrayed by Christopher Lloyd. This movie strikes the perfect balance, being family-friendly without feeling childish or corny, making it a nostalgic favorite for many who grew up watching it.
There’s something refreshingly wholesome about it. While many time travel stories delve into dystopian hellscapes or the imminent destruction of humanity, Back to the Future remains free of melodrama and gloom. Fans can further explore the franchise with Back to the Future Part II and Part III, both available for streaming on Netflix.
Don’t Look Up (2021)
The cast of Don’t Look Up is a star-studded lineup featuring Hollywood heavyweights like Leonardo DiCaprio, Jennifer Lawrence, Meryl Streep, and Cate Blanchett. It also includes popular figures such as Tyler Perry, Timothée Chalamet, Jonah Hill, and Ariana Grande. With such a diverse and talented ensemble, the film captivates audiences as new stars appear in nearly every scene.
“Don’t Look Up” is a film that cleverly reflects America’s current political and cultural climate. The story centers on two scientists who uncover a deadly comet heading toward Earth. Despite the impending disaster, the U.S. president, played by Meryl Streep, dismisses the warning, and the public remains more captivated by scandals than their own survival. With its sharp dark humor and a stellar cast, “Don’t Look Up” received four Oscar nominations, including Best Picture, making it a compelling watch.
Everything Everywhere All at Once (2022)
“Everything Everywhere All at Once” could have remained a niche film, circulating only in festival circles before fading into obscurity. However, it captivated audiences with its deep and imaginative exploration of parallel universes and the ripple effects of our choices. While its complex themes might seem at odds with a typical summer blockbuster, the film’s unique blend of intrigue and depth has resonated widely.
“Everything Everywhere All at Once” is a quirky, wild, and fresh film that captivated audiences with its complex yet engaging plot. Its fantastic cast transformed the intricacies of the story into a seriously fun and gripping experience. Dominating the 2023 Oscars, the film won seven awards, including Best Picture, Best Actress, and Best Director. Despite its arthouse A24 vibe, it’s an entertaining and memorable watch.