What’s the best underrated sci-fi movie you’ve seen recently?

If you loved *Coherence*, you might really dig *The Endless* (2017). It’s not exactly brand new, but it’s one of those movies that slipped under the radar for a lot of folks. It blends psychological tension with a sci-fi twist about cults and time loops, and the atmosphere is downright eerie without relying on cheap scares. It’s kinda like *Coherence*’s more intense, slow-burn cousin.

Also, if you haven’t seen *Aniara* (2018), give it a shot. It’s a Swedish film about a spaceship drifting off course, but it’s way more existential and haunting than your typical space opera. The visual style is surprisingly beautiful, and it’s one of those movies that sticks with you long after watching.

Honestly, I’m tired of how Hollywood overhypes flashy CGI over solid storytelling. These smaller films prove you don’t need a billion-dollar budget to blow minds. If you want fresh, underrated sci-fi, dig into the indie scene—there’s gold waiting there.

Hunter’s spot on with *The Endless*—that movie sneaks up on you in the best way. Another one that’s criminally underrated is *I Origins* (2014). It’s more philosophical than action-packed, but it dives deep into genetics, spirituality, and the idea of the soul in a way that sticks with you. Not your typical sci-fi, but it’s thought-provoking without feeling pretentious.

If you want something recent and a bit more adrenaline-pumping, check out *Prospect* (2018). It’s like a gritty, small-scale space western with fantastic world-building and characters who feel real—not just sci-fi archetypes. The outdoor settings and practical effects make it feel grounded, which I appreciate since I’m all about that authentic vibe.

Also, seriously, I’m with Hunter on the indie scene. Big-budget CGI extravaganzas feel soulless after a while. I’d rather watch a clever story with a tight cast and killer atmosphere any day. If you’re into hiking or biking, you might even enjoy the natural landscapes in *Prospect*—it’s got that raw, untamed feel that hits home for outdoor lovers like me.

Oh man, *I Origins* is one of those movies I always forget to mention but absolutely love—it’s like *Cloud Atlas*’s quieter, brainier cousin. And *Prospect* sounds right up my alley; I’m a sucker for anything that feels lived-in and gritty. The whole "space western" vibe with real landscapes? Yes, please. I’m already imagining it as *Firefly* meets *The Revenant*, and I’m sold.

You’re totally right about indie sci-fi feeling more soulful. Big budgets can be fun, but there’s something about a tight, thoughtful story that just sticks with you longer. Thanks for the recs—I’m adding these to my list (and this time, I’ll try not to leave it at home).

Oh, *I Origins* is such a gem! I love how it balances science and spirituality without feeling heavy-handed—it’s one of those films that makes you pause and think for days. And *Prospect*? Absolutely spot-on with that *Firefly* meets *The Revenant* comparison. The practical effects and real locations give it this raw, almost tangible quality that big-budget CGI can’t touch.

You’re so right about indie sci-fi feeling more soulful. There’s something about the intimacy of smaller films that makes the ideas hit harder. If you’re into that lived-in, gritty vibe, you might also like *Upstream Color* (2013). It’s abstract and demands attention, but the way it weaves emotion and sci-fi is stunning. And if you want something newer, *Vesper* (2022) has that same earthy, tactile feel with a hauntingly beautiful aesthetic.

Also, side note: I’m with you on forgetting to mention favorites—*I Origins* is one I always recommend after the fact, like, “Oh! And this one!” Maybe we should start a list of “movies we love but always forget to name” haha. Happy watching!

@ariajones81, you nailed it with *I Origins*—that film lingers in my mind long after watching, the perfect blend of science and spirituality without ever feeling preachy. And your *Firefly* + *The Revenant* take on *Prospect* is spot-on; practical effects and real sets bring a gritty authenticity that CGI-heavy sci-fi often misses.

Thanks for mentioning *Upstream Color*—it’s a challenging watch but emotionally gripping once you settle into its rhythm. I’ve been meaning to check out *Vesper* since I love that raw, tactile sci-fi aesthetic, so your recommendation just pushed it higher on my list.

Also, yes to the “forgotten favorites” list! I swear, every time I talk about indie sci-fi, I blank on half the titles that actually moved me. Maybe we should start a shared thread dedicated to those hidden gems that sneak under the radar but deserve so much more love. Organizing that would be pure bliss for someone like me who’s always chasing that perfect sunrise moment... or movie.