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10 Near-Perfect Action Movies That No One Remembers Today

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John Malkovich as Cyrus 'The Virus' Grissom, pointing a gun at a bunny plushie in 'Con Air'

A good action movie keeps our adrenaline pumping as the battles rage on. Whether it’s a hero on a mission or a team battling a disaster, the action must keep audiences glued to their screen from start to finish. When a great action movie leaves you eager for more, you know it was a success that future films will try to replicate. They’re the films that stick with you for a lifetime.

But sometimes, when an action flick is good, not great, it falters in earning that perfect status because it’s missing something; maybe it’s a plot hole or a character choice, ort could be lost to time or mixed in the shuffle. Whatever it is, it makes the movie forgotten by modern audiences. We’re here to discuss those, the action movies that come close to perfection and are still all but forgotten today. These near-perfect films are the ones that miss out on the all-time great list, and thus have been lost to time.

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10

‘Con Air’ (1997)

John Malkovich as Cyrus 'The Virus' Grissom, pointing a gun at a bunny plushie in 'Con Air' Image via Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures

If there is one actor who has had a wild and versatile career, it’s Nicolas Cage. Unafraid of making bold choices, Cage puts his full self in his films, but that doesn’t always mean it’s always right. For instance, if there was one thing that pulled you out of Con Air, it’s the country-fried dialect Cage gave to Cameron Poe. The epitome of ’90s action films, Con Air follows Poe, a paroled Army Ranger, as he’s transported home aboard a prison transport plane called the Jailbird. On board, the passengers include some of the worst prisoners, many of whom plan a heist to hijack the plane. Poe must use his skills to defeat Cyrus “The Virus” Grissom (John Malkovich) and his gang so he can make it home alive.

An over-the-top, formulaic action thriller, Con Air is brilliant in concept and execution. Looking at the casting, which also includes John Cusack, Ving Rhames, Steve Buscemi, and more, you’d think Con Air would be perfect. But Cage’s accent is simply too distracting, especially when he’s delivering hard-hitting bits of dialogue. You can certainly appreciate Cage for crafting a fully-rounded character, but it detracts from an overall masterpiece.

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9

‘The Rocketeer’ (1991)

A masked superhero in a leather jacket flies through the sky in The Rocketeer.
A masked superhero in a leather jacket flies through the sky in The Rocketeer.
Image via Buena Vista Pictures

Directed by Joe Johnston and set in 1938 Los Angeles, The Rocketeer sees stunt pilot Cliff Secord (Billy Campbell) find a stolen, top-secret Nazi-coveted rocket pack. After earning the attention of Howard Hughes (Terry O’Quinn) and the FBI, Secord uses it to become a hero, fighting Nazi agents, while protecting his girlfriend, Jenny Blake (Jennifer Connelly), and his mechanic mentor, A. “Peevy” Peabody (Alan Arkin). Based on the comic book character of the same name by Dave Stevens, The Rocketeer is a sleek film that celebrates an ordinary man who becomes extraordinary.

Rooted in nostalgia with a glamorous ’30s Art Deco tribute, The Rocketeer is a retro throwback that came out way before it was ready. There is a sense of marvel, the heroes are charming, the villains are dastardly, and the cinematography, for its time, is a wonder. But with high-flying effects central to the film, The Rocketeer became extremely dated, unable to earn masterpiece status to prevent us from giving it a pass. It’s a sleeper hit that became a beloved cult classic, but when you can sense the green screen, you’re taken out of the wonderment. Though it may have to be adjusted in the story, The Rocketeer is a film that deserves a remake.

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8

‘Last Action Hero’ (1993)

Jack Slater, played by actor Arnold Schwarzenegger, stands smiling next to a blond woman in a video store in Last Action Hero.
Jack Slater, played by actor Arnold Schwarzenegger, stands smiling next to a blond woman in a video store in Last Action Hero.
Image via Columbia Pictures

In the ’80s, Arnold Schwarzenegger was a full-on action hero. The films he brought to life were full-fledged action thrillers, jam-packed with action, drama, and destruction. Then, in the ’90s, Schwarzenegger opted to shift and flex his comedic skills, appearing in films that toed the line between action and comedy. Last Action Hero almost worked. The fantasy adventure film follows a young boy named Danny Madigan (Austin O’Brien), who is obsessed with the Jack Slater films. With the help of a golden ticket, Danny is magically transported into the latest film, teaming up with the fictional, invincible Slater to fight villains. When Mr. Benedict (Charles Dance), a ruthless assassin, grabs the ticket and escapes to the real world, Danny and Arnold’s Jack Slater are forced to save the day.

A delightful film, it gets a bit too meta to be completely believable. While it serves as a brilliant exploration of the action genre as a self-aware deconstruction, balancing satire and a love letter to cinema, the actual action genre gets muddied at times, and it comes with Schwarzenegger’s attempt to parody himself. Last Action Hero didn’t necessarily earn iconic status just yet. That said, if you can forgive the in-jokes and appreciate the film for what it is, Last Action Hero is one of the actor’s underappreciated hits.

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7

‘The Long Kiss Goodnight’ (1996)

Geena Davis and Samuel L Jackson as Samantha and Hitch holding guns standing in a hallway in 'The Long Kiss Goodnight'
Geena Davis and Samuel L Jackson as Samantha and Hitch holding guns standing in a hallway in ‘The Long Kiss Goodnight’
Image via New Line Cinema

Nothing can kill a potentially brilliant action film like some sloppy storytelling. Such was the case for Renny Harlin’s The Long Kiss Goodnight. The film tells the story of Samantha Caine (Geena Davis), a suburban schoolteacher with amnesia, who, after a car accident, triggers memories of her violent past, discovers she is actually a highly skilled government assassin named Charly Baltimore. When her past catches up with her, she teams up with a private investigator (Samuel L. Jackson) to uncover a conspiracy.

A story about the rebirth of an identity, The Long Kiss Goodnight is a fast-paced thriller that’s exceptionally well-led. It is highly regarded, thanks to the wonderful chemistry between Davis and Jackson. With Davis as the focal point, the film satisfied the itch for female-driven action thrillers. Today, the government’s plot to blame a Niagara Falls attack on terrorists to gain military funding doesn’t play well. Then, if you can get past an amnesiac school teacher who once was an assassin, you’ll be fine, but the premise often leads to moments when you ask yourself, “What?” Luckily, Davis overcomes a split-personality performance, with Jackson anchoring her.

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6

‘To Live and Die in L.A.’ (1985)

Willem Dafoe as Rick in To Live and Die in L.A.
Willem Dafoe as Rick in To Live and Die in L.A.
Image via MGM

If you ask director William Friedkin, To Live and Die in L.A. was as close as he’s ever been to his perfect vision. And yet, it’s still underrated compared to his other efforts. From the visionary behind The Exorcist, To Live and Die in L.A. follows Richard Chase (William Petersen), a reckless Secret Service Agent who becomes obsessed with avenging his partner’s murder by a dangerous counterfeiter, Rick Masters (Willem Dafoe). A story of blurred morality through the lens of corruption and revenge, To Live and Die in L.A. is a style-over-substance masterclass that dreams of being The French Connection.

A daring and sometimes erratic cop thriller, Friedkin pushes bullets, betrayals, and forgeries as an allegory for obsession and the drive to become whole again. If you’re willing to set aside your desire for action to focus on the film’s deeper meaning, To Live and Die in L.A. is a great work of art. Yet the ending also makes you feel as if injustice is something you have to get over. Nevertheless, it’s a stunning film with utterly visceral action. If you love a good car chase, To Live and Die in L.A. delivers. Between a gritty, unforgiving appearance and the Wang Chung soundtrack, it feels like an ’80s classic that falls short of perfection.

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5

‘Dredd’ (2012)

Olivia Thirlby and Karl Urban in Dredd
Olivia Thirlby and Karl Urban in Dredd
Image via Reliance Entertainment

If you were a comic book blockbuster arriving anywhere between The Avengers and Justice League, I’m sorry, you’ve simply been forgotten with time. Such is the case for 2012’s Dredd. Based on the 2000 AD comic strip, the Pete Travis-directed, Alex Garland-written film stars Karl Urban as Judge Dredd, a law enforcer given the power of judge, jury, and executioner in a vast, dystopian metropolis called Mega-City One. Dredd is partnered with Cassandra (Olivia Thirlby), a rookie with powerful psychic abilities, and together, they seek out Ma-Ma (Lena Headey), a drug lord who will stop at nothing to protect her empire in the 200-story high-rise apartment block.

Brought to life with such force and fidelity to the source material, Dredd is an intelligent and immersive film that may have been too gritty for the PG-13 superhero world of the 2000s. Though the helmet stayed on, Urban maintained the integrity of the source material while also nailing a phenomenal performance. The pacing clips along, and when it’s deliberately slowed, Travis meticulously delivers visually stunning moments amid the horrific violence. Perhaps Dredd doesn’t get the adoration it deserves because it’s not a full-scale save-the-world feature, but rather focuses more on a day in the life of Dredd.

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4

‘Backdraft’ (1991)

Scott Glenn, Kurt Russell, Cedric Young, and William Baldwin in Backdraft. 
Scott Glenn, Kurt Russell, Cedric Young, and William Baldwin in Backdraft.
Image via Universal Pictures

Directed by Ron Howard, Backdraft follows two Chicago firefighter brothers, Stephen (Kurt Russell) and Brian McCaffrey (William Baldwin), estranged years after the tragic death of their legendary firefighter father, as they navigate intense sibling rivalry and a series of fatal, oxygen-induced arson fires. While senior firefighter Stephen leads the dangerous jobs, rookie Brian joins the arson investigation unit, led by Donald “Shadow” Rimgale (Robert De Niro), to solve the mystery of the “backdraft” fires. They uncover a political conspiracy by corrupt politician Martin Swayzak (J.T. Walsh), who is cutting fire department budgets, and a pyromaniac who is setting fires to eliminate those opposing the politician.

In disaster films, the actual disaster happens, leaving the rest of the film as an aftermath saga; not in Backdraft. The threat here is unrelenting, keeping the stakes up throughout. But when seeking a blockbuster of grandeur, fires just didn’t have the same appeal. Perhaps now, with television’s love for shows like Chicago Fire, Backdraft might have been fondly remembered. Unfortunately, even with a top-tier team of actors and creators, it wasn’t enough to heat our memories in a glorious blaze.

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3

‘Sudden Death’ (1995)

For better or worse, hockey is back in the mainstream, trending now more than ever. The ’90s have their fair share of hockey flicks, including Sudden Death. Directed by Jean-Claude Van Damme‘s longtime collaborator, Peter Hyams, the action thriller follows Van Damme as Darren McCord, a firefighter-turned-arena security officer at the Pittsburgh Civic Arena. Hoping to impress his children, Emily and Tyler (Whittini Wright and Ross Malinger), Darren scores tickets to the Stanley Cup finals, unaware that the entire arena has been overtaken by a group of terrorists. Former CIA agent Joshua Foss (Powers Boothe) holds Vice President Daniel Bender (Raymond J. Barry) hostage in a press box, with plans to blow up the entire arena if the ransom is not paid. But when McCord learns of the plot, he jumps into action to save the day.

A high-octane thriller, it’s Van Damme doing what he does best: kicking ass and taking names. Sudden Death was riding high on the earlier success of Die Hard, but every attempt to replicate the blueprint sadly fell short. The “one man, one building” format works for a claustrophobic, high-stakes action thriller, but Sudden Death opted for a silly but fun approach that didn’t appeal to all viewers. Though Sudden Death is a truly dated film, a newfound appreciation for hockey might give you a reason to rediscover it.

2

‘Attack the Block’ (2011)

John Boyega and his friends hide behind a wall in Attack the Block Image via Optimum Releasing
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When it comes to overlooked science fiction action movies, Attack the Block tends to make the most. The 2011 film, directed by Joe Cornish, follows a teenage street gang in South London as they defend their housing estate against a sudden alien invasion on Bonfire Night. After initially mugging a nurse named Samantha Adams (Jodie Whittaker), the group, led by Moses (John Boyega), teams up with her to battle black, glowing-toothed, furry, gorilla-like extraterrestrials. With a then largely unknown cast, Attack the Block never found an audience until it reached cult classic status.

A modern, edgy film with a retro vibe, Attack the Block is one of those titles that sounds ridiculous, but with an effective plot, earns its premise. Almost immediately, the group must outrun the police, local drug lords, AND monstrous aliens, resulting in an unnerving, action-packed joyride. By commenting on the misjudgment of the evil youth trope being broken open, audiences relate to the protagonists and their crusade. Whether standalone or as a unit, the entire cast shines, even Nick Frost as local drug lord Ron. Looking back at the cast and where they are now, perhaps we’d remember the film fondly for what it was.

1

‘Monkey Man’ (2024)

A bloodied and bruised Dev Patel as Kid, in Monkey Man
A bloodied and bruise Dev Patel as Kid, in Monkey Man
Image via Universal Pictures
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Monkey Man came out less than 24 months ago, but that doesn’t mean it hasn’t completely skipped our minds. Dev Patel’s directorial debut tells the story of an anonymous young man who unleashes a bloody revenge campaign against corrupt leaders in Mumbai who murdered his mother and oppressed his village. Taking inspiration from the legend of Hanuman, Monkey Man is a stylish film about trauma, faith, and social caste.

Monkey Man is all Patel, all the time. Between his vision and performance, you can sense how deep he goes to make it work. In front of the camera, Patel delivers a magnetic, emotive performance, evoking deep trauma and rage through his eyes. Behind the camera, he’s still a fledgling filmmaker, but he still delivers a raw film with inventive, claustrophobic, and intense hand-to-hand combat. Monkey Man is an enriching film, steeped in faith and culture, that serves as a beacon for marginalized communities. If you’re willing to go with Patel and his mission to overstuff his debut with everything and the kitchen sink, you’ll wish you hadn’t forgotten Monkey Man existed.

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Meagan Good Spills On Married Life And Baby Plans

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Rihanna Seemingly Addresses Baby Rumors, Talks "Little Pouch"

Sometimes happiness looks like exactly what you want it to be—and Meagan Good is showing fans she’s ready for the next chapter. The actress, known for keeping her personal life fairly private, opened up about marriage, motherhood, and why she and her husband, Jonathan Majors, are ready to start a family.

RELATED: Hollywood Goes Home! Meagan Good And Jonathan Majors Receive Guinean Citizenship After Ancestry Test (PHOTOS)

Is Meagan Thinking About Babies?

In a candid chat with BET, Meagan got real about her marriage and why she feels so secure with Jonathan. When asked what he does to make her feel safe, she gushed, “I know that this man is an incredible father already. But will be an incredible father to our children. He’s just who I want to do life with. He just makes me so happy. And even as crazy as life has been, I just have never been this happy, just simply doing life with someone the way that we are connected.”

Meagan didn’t hold back when discussing motherhood either. “Strap a baby to his chest, strap a baby to my chest… I want it all,” she said, making it clear that starting a family with Jonathan is not a question of if, but when. Fans can’t help but root for the couple as they move into this exciting next chapter of their lives.

Roomies Can’t Get Enough

Folks immediately flooded TSR’s Instagram comment section to show Meagan Good some love. Many shared their own stories of having kids later in life, while others simply celebrated seeing her so happy and in love. And, of course, plenty of Roomies chimed in asking when they’ll meet someone who makes them feel the way Jonathan makes Meagan feel.

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One Instagram user @mzsweetkk said, “Go for it.. Janet did it at 50! 🙌🏾🙏🏾❤️”

This Instagram user @mswendyrose added, “I’m so happy for them! She deserves this type of energy and will be an amazing mom!

And, Instagram user @chef_ronisha commented, “At 44 … never give up, ladies.. I ❤️ this for her

Then Instagram user @lolo_b_so_solo shared, “I cant wait to feel this safe with a man

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While Instagram user @rizatisserand wrote, “Mothergood.

Finally, Instagram user @_aikan__ said, “This is the right way to do it ❤️❤️❤️Waited & happy

Folks Kept The Love Coming Amid Pregnancy Rumors

Just last year, Meagan Good had Roomies buzzing after a livestream with Jonathan Majors set off pregnancy rumors. While showing off her gym look—an olive green sports bra and black workout shorts, hair slicked into a bun—Majors casually commented, “her belly does look fit,” and the internet immediately went wild. Playing into the speculation, he smirked and added, “Who knows if she’s pregnant? I can’t call it.” Fans couldn’t stop staring at Meagan’s snatched, toned abs and sculpted figure, debating whether there was a baby bump… or if everyone was just reaching again.

RELATED: Lowkey Love! Jonathan Majors & Meagan Good Reveal Photos From Secret Wedding (VIDEO)

What Do You Think Roomies?

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Emmy-winning“ Euphoria” artist slams show, announces exit: 'Double f— “Euphoria”'

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“I’m done with this industry,” Labrinth wrote on social media.

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Shoppers Say This On-Sale Moisturizer ‘Plumps up the Skin’

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Shoppers Say This On-Sale Moisturizer 'Plumps up the Skin'

Us Weekly has affiliate partnerships. We receive compensation when you click on a link and make a purchase. Learn more!

Fine lines, dullness and dryness can start to creep in as skin matures — especially once you reach your 50s and 60s. The right moisturizer can make all the difference, helping restore hydration while making skin look smoother, bouncier and more refreshed. Luckily, one shopper-loved formula helps with exactly that — and it just so happens to be on sale right now!

The EltaMD AM Restore Face Moisturizer delivers exactly the kind of hydration skin tends to crave — and it’s on sale during the brand’s Derm Day sale. On sale today through March 16, 2026, you can now score it at 15% off. It’s the perfect time to try the moisturizer from the #1 Dermatologist-Recommended Professional Sunscreen Brand.

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Get the EltaMD AM Restore Face Moisturizer for $41 (Was $48) at Amazon!

What makes the hydrating moisturizer stand out is its skin-supporting formula. It’s made with niacinamide and hyaluronic acid, two ingredients known for maintaining healthy, hydrated skin. Hyaluronic acid helps draw moisture into the skin for a plumper, more supple look, while niacinamide (vitamin B3) works to smooth the appearance of texture and support a more even-looking complexion over time.

The texture is just as appealing. The lightweight cream absorbs quickly, delivering lasting hydration without feeling greasy or heavy. It also layers seamlessly under sunscreen and makeup, making it an easy addition to a morning routine while helping keep skin soft, balanced and comfortably moisturized throughout the day.

The moisturizer has earned more than 4,600 five-star ratings on Amazon. One 65-year-old reviewer said it “plumps up the skin,” while another shopper raved that it gives their face a “beautiful glow.” A third customer also highlighted the “exceptional hydration,” adding that it moisturizes deeply without “leaving an oily feel.”

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If your current moisturizer isn’t delivering the results you want, this hydrating formula is an easy upgrade. The lightweight cream delivers smoother, healthier-looking skin without a heavy feel — and the 15% discount makes the find even better. At $41 on Amazon, it’s a deal worth grabbing while it lasts!

Get the EltaMD AM Restore Face Moisturizer for $41 (Was $48) at Amazon!

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Katy Perry Shares Rare Peek Into Justin Trudeau Relationship

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Katy Perry is giving her followers a subtle update on her life with Justin Trudeau.

Posting via her Instagram on Wednesday, February 11, the singer, 41, shared a carousel of photos that included several images of the former Canadian Prime Minister, 54.

One photo showed a candid Trudeau posing with a green tinsel-covered object as he squinted his eye. Another was a selfie that featured both Perry and Trudeau, which appeared to be taken from a low angle.

“You are the treasure you seek,” Perry captioned the photo dump.

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Related: Katy Perry and Justin Trudeau Cuddle Up in New Selfie: ‘Tokyo Times on Tour’

Katy Perry and former Canadian prime minister Justin Trudeau are Instagram official. “Tokyo times on tour and more,” Perry, 41, wrote via Instagram on Saturday, December 6, sharing a slew of photos in Japan. In one photo, Trudeau, 53, snapped a selfie with Perry as they took in the fall foliage. A second clip, meanwhile, […]

The final slide also appeared to reference Trudeau. The image was a cartoon meme which read, “Patiently waiting for my bf to finish his big boy business stuff so we can call.”

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Followers flocked to the comments section to gush over Perry and Trudeau’s romance.

“I’ve never seen you look so happy with someone omg you guys are so cute together,” wrote one fan, while another added, “She’s soooooo in love.”

Meanwhile, another follower joked, “Canada’s royal couple.”

Perry and Trudeau went “Instagram official” in December 2025, six months after the “Firework” singer announced her split from Orlando Bloom after a decade together.

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Katy Perry and Justin Trudeau.
(Photo courtesy of Katy Perry/ Instagram)

While visiting Japan for her Lifetimes Tour, the singer posted a series of photos via her Instagram on December 6, which showed her enjoying her downtime with the politician.

“Tokyo times on tour and more,” she captioned the carousel of images and videos, which included a photo of the pair cozying up for a selfie. Another clip showed the pair enjoying a sushi dinner date together.

The couple were also photographed together during a meeting with former Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida. The photo was posted via Instagram on December 4, marking the duo’s public debut.

Katy Perry Is Very Happy Amid Low Key Romance With Former Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau


Related: Katy Perry Is ‘Very Happy’ Amid ‘Low-Key’ Romance With Justin Trudeau

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Katy Perry’s blooming romance with former Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is heating up. “Katy is really into it. She’s very happy,” an inside source tells Us Weekly exclusively. “She’s trying to keep it low-key, and they’ve spent a lot of private time together. She’s not looking to publicize this relationship.” The source adds, “Their […]

“Former Canadian Prime Minister Trudeau came to Japan with his partner Katy Perry and had lunch with us,” Kishida, 68, wrote via Instagram at the time. “During my time as Prime Minister, I met Prime Ministers many times, and when I visited Canada, we worked together to strengthen bilateral relations, including formulating the ‘Nikka Action Plan.’ I am glad that we are continuing this friendship.”

Perry and Trudeau were first linked when they were spotted out to dinner in Montreal in July 2025. The politician also attended her Lifetimes Tour in the Canadian city days later.

A source exclusively told Us Weekly at the time that their outing was “definitely” a date, but they were keeping it “casual.”

In October 2025, they made another public appearance together while walking out of a club holding hands.

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These Sci-Fi Shows Get Better With Every Rewatch

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The Fringe Division of the FBI—Astrid Fairnsworth (Jasika Nicole), Walter Bishop (John Noble), Olivia Dunham (Anna Torv), and Peter Bishop (Joshua Jackson)—emerge from the side door of a van in 'Fringe' Season 5.

Science fiction is a broad spectrum of material that can include everything from aliens and robots to alternate worlds and time travel. In many ways, it’s just fantasy with some technical mumbo-jumbo that attempts to ground the world in reality rather than magic. Sometimes, sci-fi gets really technical by using real-world science, but no matter how you slice it, there’s still something fantastical about the end result. Perhaps that’s why we love binging sci-fi television shows, as it helps us further immerse ourselves in that world.

While many sci-fi shows are memorable from the very start, some just get better with age. Looking beyond some of the dated special effects and terminology, the very best science fiction television continues to hit home years, even decades, later. This is the case with these sci-fi TV shows that we’ve put together — shows that you’ll be pleasantly surprised are even more fun with every rewatch.

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‘Fringe’ (2008–2013)

The Fringe Division of the FBI—Astrid Fairnsworth (Jasika Nicole), Walter Bishop (John Noble), Olivia Dunham (Anna Torv), and Peter Bishop (Joshua Jackson)—emerge from the side door of a van in 'Fringe' Season 5.
The Fringe Division of the FBI—Astrid Fairnsworth (Jasika Nicole), Walter Bishop (John Noble), Olivia Dunham (Anna Torv), and Peter Bishop (Joshua Jackson)—emerge from the side door of a van in ‘Fringe’ Season 5.
Image via FOX

There was perhaps no sci-fi drama more bold and creative to come out of the early 2000s than Fringe. What began as a simple sci-fi-flavored procedural where the FBI would investigate a pattern full of fringe-science-related cases quickly grew into a series that dealt with everything from parallel worlds, time travel, robotic shape-shifters, and a post-apocalyptic future. During its five seasons, the familiar faces at Fringe Division never led us astray.

Co-created by J. J. Abrams, Fringe was often ahead of its time regarding the pseudo-scientific conversations it was having, dealing in parallel universes and timelines long before the multiverse became mainstream. Not only does the show become more relevant and compelling with every watch, but the relationship between Olivia (Anna Torv) and Peter (Joshua Jackson) — as well as Walter’s (John Noble) overall development — becomes so much clearer in hindsight. Plus, it’s just a great show.

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‘Warehouse 13’ (2009–2014)

Pete Lattimer (Eddie McClintock), Artie Nielson (Saul Rubinek), and Myka Bering (Joanne Kelly) look at the Farnsworth on 'Warehouse 13'
Pete Lattimer (Eddie McClintock), Artie Nielson (Saul Rubinek), and Myka Bering (Joanne Kelly) look at the Farnsworth on ‘Warehouse 13’
Image via SYFY

For science fiction that isn’t afraid to lean into the campy nature of the genre, Warehouse 13 is one of the best. A SyFy original that exists in the same shared universe as Alphas and Eureka, the series primarily follows two U.S. Secret Service agents as they join the title warehouse in finding mythical artifacts that start making trouble around the globe. While this one does teeter the line between sci-fi and fantasy, it’s a fun show that definitely gets better with age.

Over five seasons, Warehouse 13 leans more into humor and levity as Pete (Eddie McClintock) and Myka (Joanne Kelly) are thrown into each zany new case. In many ways, this show gets better each rewatch simply because it’s a comfort show. Its intent isn’t to bend your mind or push you to near-insanity trying to figure it all ou, it’s simply fun, sci-fi entertainment that pulls you into a fascinating world full of lovable characters.

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‘Stargate Atlantis’ (2004–2009)

Jason Momoa as Ronon Dex in 'Stargate Atlantis'
Jason Momoa as Ronon Dex in ‘Stargate Atlantis’
Image via SYFY

The first spin-off of the larger Stargate television franchise, Stargate Atlantis sends the members of the Atlantis expedition to the neighboring Pegasus Galaxy to explore new worlds. Based in the famed “Lost City” itself, the Atlantis crew makes quick enemies with the Wraith, an ancient race of vampiric aliens who drain the life from those in their path. As they seek to free the galaxy from their terror, Major John Sheppard (Joe Flanigan) and the rest of the team find themselves in heaps of trouble.

Stargate Atlantis is another sci-fi wonder that lasted five seasons on SyFy, continually dazzling viewers with its creative new ways to put the Atlantis crew in peril. Of course, as you continue to revisit the series, you’ll fall more in love with its charming cast and unique take on the Stargate brand. You’ll especially have fun revisiting one of Jason Mamoa’s first notable television roles, long before he would return to another version of Atlantis in Aquaman.

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‘Falling Skies’ (2011–2015)

Tom Mason (Noah Wyle) boards an alien ship in 'Falling Skies'
Tom Mason (Noah Wyle) boards an alien ship in ‘Falling Skies’
Image via TNT

For fans who watched Falling Skies every summer when it aired in the early 2010s, you’ll remember that this TNT drama was a blast from the beginning. Produced by Steven Spielberg and starring Noah Wyle as history professor-turned-militia leader Tom Mason, the show followed a group of Boston-based rebels who stand against a horde of alien invaders who took over the planet six months prior. Even better, plotlines often mirrored American (and later world) history, albeit with an extraterrestrial bent.

For five seasons, the folks in the 2nd Mass battled the invading Espheni in hopes of restoring their old world. Falling Skies is one that you may not have returned to in a while, but you won’t regret it if you do. The show diligently unveils the truth about the alien invaders in question as the characters themselves are forced to shed their old ways to adapt to this new interstellar world. By the time the series ends, you’ll be so amped up that you may just want to binge it again.

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‘Star Trek: The Next Generation’ (1987–1994)

The first live-action continuation of the Star Trek franchise, Star Trek: The Next Generation has often been hailed as one of the greatest science fiction shows ever made. Set a century after the original with a new crew, the USS Enterprise sets sail again for the stars, as creator Gene Roddenberry successfully reinvented the brand. The Next Generation ran an impressive seven seasons, even sparking film continuation sequels and revival projects like Picard decades later.

Like many Star Trek installments, The Next Generation also benefits from a rewatch. Each time we reunite with the Enterprise crew, we are delighted by Captain Picard’s (Patrick Stewart) more intellectual approach to the brand’s space adventures, effectively turning the series into something more of a “thinking man’s sci-fi drama.” For longtime fans, revisiting the best episodes of The Next Generation is like reuniting with an old friend, and those reunions only become more enjoyable with every new binge.

‘Stargate SG-1’ (1997–2007)

Christopher Judge, Amanda Tapping, Richard Dean Anderson, and Michael Shanks in Stargate SG-1.
Christopher Judge, Amanda Tapping, Richard Dean Anderson, and Michael Shanks in Stargate SG-1.
Image via Showtime
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After the success of the original Stargate feature film, Stargate SG-1 continued the narrative with a new cast on television. The Showtime-turned-Syfy adventure series created by Brad Wright and Jonathan Glassner pushed the Stargate crew back together to explore new worlds and keep the villainous Goa’uld from making their way to Earth. While the plot developed beyond that over time, that thread would stick with the series throughout its impressive 10-season run.

Stargate SG-1 was the flagship Stargate series that reinvented the franchise into a television staple throughout the early 2000s. Each new binge of SG-1 reminds us of how good we had it at the time. While a new Stargate series is in development, nothing quite beats the original, which even produced two direct-to-video continuation films that effectively concluded the franchise.

‘Continuum’ (2012–2015)

Rachel Nichols as Kiera Cameron knocked to the ground, looking back in Continuum.
Rachel Nichols as Kiera Cameron knocked to the ground, looking back in Continuum.
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Many of the shows on our list have dealt exclusively with alien invaders or case-by-case adventures, but when it comes to time travel, few shows are more compelling than Continuum. Not only does the show offer us a look at a dystopian future where corporations control all aspects of life, but it’s also a mind-bending time travel drama that features complex characters and an enjoyable weekly caseload. For four seasons, Continuum continued to surprise us, and it’s still at the top of its game.

Set primarily in 2012 Vancouver, the show follows 2077 police officer Kiera Cameron (Rachel Nichols) as she travels to the past to pursue a terrorist organization called Liber8. The only problem is, over time, Kiera begins to understand the group’s cause, even if she disapproves of their methods. The tensions between corporatism and an overreliance on technology are at the heart of this show, making it more relevant today than ever.

‘Firefly’ (2002–2003)

Wash, Mal, and Zoe face danger and look tense inside their ship in Firefly.
Wash, Mal, and Zoe face danger and look tense inside their ship in Firefly.
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Billed as a “space Western,” Firefly was the brainchild of Joss Whedon, who aimed to view the future through a distinct lens that blended cultures and pushed its outlaw heroes into further paths of rebellion. As the crew of the Serenity soar among the stars, they soon find themselves in the middle of uncharted waters when they pick up some mysterious passengers who put them on Alliance radar. With Captain Malcolm Reynolds (Nathan Fillion) — easily the best of this wild bunch — to guide them, the crew takes odd jobs all across the ‘verse.

Only lasting a total of 14 episodes, Firefly is a quick-and-easy binge, but one that will leave you wanting more. The series was cancelled long before its time, but each new watch reminds us of the potential that this cast and crew had to create something truly great. The cult following it garnered is enough proof that the short-lived Fox series succeeded, as is the continuation film Serenity.

‘The X-Files’ (1993–2018)

Mulder and Scully look up as they stand at an outdoor beach restaurant in The X-Files.
Mulder and Scully look up as they stand at an outdoor beach restaurant in The X-Files.
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The original “spooky cop show,” The X-Files is the perfect blend of science fiction and network television. As FBI Special Agents Fox Mulder (David Duchovny) and Dana Scully (Gillian Anderson) investigate the weird and unexplained, they fall into a conspiracy so large it spans not just the globe but the stars as well. What began as an alien-heavy series about abductions, UFOs, and government cover-ups soon turned into a pop culture phenomenon.

After nine original seasons and two feature films, The X-Files spawned two revival seasons in the 2010s. Around that time, many binged the series through once more, only to be reminded that there has never been another TV duo like Mulder and Scully. With over 200 episodes to choose from, binging The X-Files is no small feat, but once you do, you’ll be reminded of how novel this Chris Carter-created series was from the get-go.

‘Battlestar Galactica’ (2004–2009)

Katee Sackhoff sitting down and looking serious in Battlestar Galactica.
Katee Sackhoff sitting down and looking serious in Battlestar Galactica.
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Perhaps the most groundbreaking installment in televised science fiction, Battlestar Galactica took a long-dead franchise and, under the direction of Ronald D. Moore, revived a brand by stripping it of all the camp and making it more adult. After humanity is nearly wiped out by a race of cybernetic Cylons, the remaining survivors search for the mythical homeworld of Earth. With the Galactica leading the fleet, this high-octane, politically charged drama is considered among the best of its kind for a reason.

Kickstarting with a two-part miniseries, SyFy launched Battlestar Galactica in 2004, resulting in a four-season space epic that remains unmatched. Even if it’s been a while since you watched it, the very first episode will suck you back in with force, and you’ll be glad it did. And, with several prequels and mid-series films also available, you can make it last even longer.


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Release Date

2004 – 2009-00-00

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Directors

Wayne Rose, Michael Nankin, Rod Hardy, Sergio Mimica-Gezzan, Edward James Olmos, Robert M. Young, Jeff Woolnough, Félix Enríquez Alcalá, Jonas Pate, Allan Kroeker, Anthony Hemingway, Jean de Segonzac, Marita Grabiak, James Head, Paul A. Edwards, Gwyneth Horder-Payton, Brad Turner, Ronald D. Moore, Bill Eagles

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25 Oscar winners who started out as child stars

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Actors like Jeff Bridges and Regina King, who started their careers as youngins, grew up onscreen and earned Academy Awards.

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Virgin River’s Marco Grazzini Breaks Silence on Shocking Exit

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Virgin River‘s Marco Grazzini is breaking his silence after Mike was written off the show before season 8.

“Character departures are very common in this business — especially on a long-running and beloved series like Virgin River,” Grazzini, 45, who has been on the show since season 2, told Entertainment Weekly on Thursday, March 12. “It’s been a wonderful opportunity to play Mike for six seasons.”

Grazzini said he has “nothing but love for the cast, crew, and especially the phenomenal fans who make the show so special,” adding, “I’m excited for this new chapter in my career.”

News originally broke on Thursday that Grazzini won’t be returning as a series regular — for now.

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Which 'Virgin River' Stars Are — And Aren't — Returning for Season 7?


Related: Which ‘Virgin River’ Stars Are — And Aren’t — Returning for Season 7?

Between a cast exit, love triangle complications and several open-ended story lines, Virgin River has a lot of questions that need answering in season 7 — but is every cast member returning for more episodes? Virgin River, which premiered in 2019, is based on Robyn Carr’s book series and follows the lives of residents living […]

“For me, I’m just trying to look to the longevity of the show and making sure that the characters that we’re keeping have enough story engine in them to keep going,” showrunner Patrick Sean Smith told Deadline. “So I can’t say there are any specific cast shakeups planned, but I think we will have to start to — as characters run their course — make some decisions and bring in some new blood.”

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In addition to Grazzini, Lauren Hammersley, who has been playing Charmaine since the show premiered on Netflix, is also not expected to come back. With the exception of Grazzini, the rest of Virgin River‘s season 7 series regulars are expected to return in season 8.

Virgin River TV Couples We Should Leave Behind in 2024
Courtesy of Netflix

Based on the book series written by Robyn Carr, Virgin River centers around the lives of residents living in a small town in Northern California, including Mel (Alexandra Breckenridge) and her love interest, Jack (Martin Henderson). The series also stars Colin Lawrence, Annette O’Toole, Tim Matheson, Benjamin Hollingsworth, Sarah Dugdale, Zibby Allen and Kai Bradbury.

This isn’t the first time the show has gone through some changes behind the scenes. Grayson Gurnsey left as Ricky after season 4, and Mark Ghanimé, who played Cameron, had a surprising exit once season 6 was released.

Grazzini recently teased Mike’s future after his split from Brie (Allen) led to him potentially finding love with Victoria (Sara Canning), exclusively telling Us Weekly, “I think that Mike falls into the same patterns that he’s always been in. She’s somebody that he’s worked with in the past and she’s been in law enforcement.”

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Virgin River s Alexandra Breckenridge Martin Henderson on Their Crazy Season 6 Cliffhangers and More


Related: Meet the Season 7 Cast of Netflix’s Hit ‘Virgin River’ After Surprise Exit

Netflix’s longest-running scripted series Virgin River has gone through some surprising cast changes — so who is expected to appear in season 7? Based on Robyn Carr’s book series, Virgin River follows the lives of residents living in a small town in Northern California, including Mel and Jack. The hit series, which premiered in 2019, […]

Grazzini teased that Mike “definitely has a type.”

“Mike definitely falls hard and he falls fast. He’s a romantic at heart and he just wants to find love,” he noted. “But maybe he needs to exercise a little bit more [caution]. Just wait and see. But obviously he’s taken by Victoria.”

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The actor expressed hope that Mike could “broaden his horizons and maybe find other interests in common.”

“It would be somebody that could distract him from his work life and bring him more into other parts of himself. His hobbies and his passions. Because you know that that line of work can weigh on you,” he continued. “So when the other person in the relationship is also in that line of work, it can get pretty heavy. As familiar as it is, it would be nice for Mike to step out of his comfort zone.”

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Virgin River is currently streaming on Netflix.

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10 Most Forgotten Sci-Fi Movies From the ‘80s

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Louis Gossett Jr. and Dennis Quaid as Willis Davage and Jeriga Shigan in Enemy Mine

Cinema in the 1980s was filled with imaginative tales that reached beyond the stars. The sci-fi genre, in particular, was quickly evolving from a technological standpoint after the success of Star Wars, inspiring filmmakers to take on ambitious projects with greater challenges. Though genre masterpieces such as Blade Runner and Back to the Future became embedded in pop culture, there were several other sci-fi gems overlooked at the time that went against the grain.

These ten most forgotten sci-fi movies from the ‘80s comprise of projects that fell through the cracks during the decade of decadence. Many of them suffered from marketing missteps or were way ahead of their time. From dystopian thrillers to cosmic discoveries, these instant cult classics are worth revisiting today.

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10

‘Enemy Mine’ (1985)

Louis Gossett Jr. and Dennis Quaid as Willis Davage and Jeriga Shigan in Enemy Mine
Louis Gossett Jr. and Dennis Quaid as Willis Davage and Jeriga Shigan in Enemy Mine.
Image via 20th Century Studios

Fresh off the success of The Neverending Story, director Wolfgang Petersen tackled racial tensions within the context of outer space and an intergalactic species at war with the human race. Based on the novella by Barry B. Longyear, Enemy Mine takes place on a volcanic planet where a cocky human pilot (Dennis Quaid) gets stranded alongside his nemesis: a reptilian soldier (Louis Gossett Jr.) who is part of an alien race called the Drac. As they struggle to survive in the volatile environment, their mutual hatred develops into a close friendship.

The film’s moving subject matter, mixing tolerance with sci-fi adventure spectacle, surprised audiences who expected Enemy Mine to be simply escapist entertainment in 1985. The troubled behind-the-scenes production and its difficult marketing caused the film to get lost in the shuffle during the crowded holiday season. But over the years, Enemy Mine found enough appreciation from fans, especially for Louis Gossett Jr.’s prosthetics-heavy performance, to draw interest in a remake from Disney.

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9

‘The Quiet Earth’ (1985)

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Bruno Lawrence in The Quiet Earth
Image via Cinepro

New Zealand’s haunting sci-fi drama The Quiet Earth follows scientist Zac Hobson (Bruno Lawrence), who wakes up one morning to discover that every other person on Earth has mysteriously vanished. As he wanders through abandoned cities and empty highways, Zac struggles to maintain his sanity while searching for answers about the strange global event that erased humanity.

While the post-apocalyptic film from director Geoff Murphy (Young Guns II, Freejack) gained critical praise for its eerie atmosphere and philosophical themes, it never achieved widespread recognition outside of cult circles. Its slow-burn storytelling and cerebral focus set it apart from the effects-driven sci-fi blockbusters of the era. Today, The Quiet Earth stands as one of the most haunting post-apocalyptic films of the decade, quietly influencing later stories about isolation and the fragility of civilization.

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8

‘Saturn 3’ (1980)

Farrah Fawcett as Alex in 'Saturn 3'.
Farrah Fawcett as Alex in ‘Saturn 3’.
Image via ITC Entertainment

Set on a remote research station orbiting Saturn, Saturn 3 stars Kirk Douglas and Farrah Fawcett as scientists whose quiet lives are disrupted by the arrival of a sinister technician (Harvey Keitel). The newcomer brings with him a massive experimental robot named Hector, which quickly develops a deadly obsession with the station’s inhabitants.

Although it featured a strong cast and impressive production design, Saturn 3 struggled critically upon release. Its uneven tone and behind-the-scenes production issues prevented it from becoming a major hit. Still, the film’s eerie atmosphere and unsettling robot antagonist make it a fascinating relic of early ’80s sci-fi horror that deserves a reassessment.

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7

‘The Last Starfighter’ (1984)

The Last Starfighter movie poster.
The Last Starfighter movie poster.
Image via Universal Pictures

Cashing in on the video game craze of the early ‘80s, The Last Starfighter follows a teenager named Alex Rogan (Lance Guest) whose high score on an arcade machine gets him recruited by an intergalactic group called the Star League to fight in an interstellar war. Meanwhile, an android posing as Alex takes his place back on Earth to keep his girlfriend (Catherine Mary Stewart) and his family in the dark about his secret mission.

Mixing space opera and fantasy wish fulfillment, The Last Starfighter could have been the new Star Wars for the decade. The underrated sci-fi adventure was groundbreaking for its early use of computer-generated imagery, replacing traditional model effects with digital spacecraft battles. While not a blockbuster on the level of other sci-fi hits of the decade, its imaginative direction by Nick Castle makes it one of the era’s most charming underappreciated gems.

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6

‘Millennium’ (1989)

Kris Kristofferson and Cheryl Ladd as Bill and Louise in 'Millennium'.
Kris Kristofferson and Cheryl Ladd as Bill and Louise in ‘Millennium’.
Image via 20th Century Fox

A decade after making the iconic sci-fi thriller Logan’s Run, British filmmaker Michael Anderson took on his strangest project with 1989’s Millennium. Based on the short story “Air Raid” by John Varley, Millennium centers on an NTSB investigator (Kris Kristofferson) examining a mysterious plane crash. His search for answers leads him to uncover a bizarre truth: travelers from 1000 years into a dystopian future are abducting passengers from doomed flights in order to preserve humanity’s genetic survival. Complicating matters further is a futuristic time traveler (Cheryl Ladd) sent to stop the investigator and a quack physicist (Daniel J. Travanti) who believes in time travel.

The initial intrigue of Millennium’s mystery concept quickly falls apart once the future scenes are depicted. The B-movie values of the costumes, New Wave-inspired makeup, and special effects were out of step in a year when The Abyss and Back to the Future Part II were pushing cinematic technology to new heights. Nevertheless, the film’s complex premise and eerie tone have helped it gain a cult following among fans of ambitious sci-fi storytelling.

Win Tickets to Our Early Screening of ‘Invincible’ Season 4 With Robert Kirkman and Simon Racioppa Q&A

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5

‘Cherry 2000’ (1988)

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Melanie Griffith in Cherry 2000
Image via Orion Pictures

Part sci-fi adventure and part offbeat romance, Cherry 2000 takes place in a dystopian future where relationships have become transactional. After his robotic companion malfunctions, a lonely man (David Andrews) ventures into the dangerous wasteland outside society to find a replacement model—guided by a tough red-haired tracker (Melanie Griffith).

Though it features Laurence Fishburne before he became a household name, Cherry 2000 barely made a splash upon release, hampered by distribution issues from Orion Pictures and its uneven tone. However, the film has since developed a cult reputation thanks to its unique blend of genres and its satirical take on consumer culture and artificial companionship. Its quirky style makes it feel like a forgotten cousin to better-known ’80s sci-fi dystopias.

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4

‘Runaway’ (1984)

Tom Selleck in Runaway
Tom Selleck in Runaway
Image via TriStar Pictures

Before becoming known as the creator of the Jurassic Park franchise and NBC’s ER, Michael Crichton wrote and directed Runaway. The futuristic cop thriller features Tom Selleck during his Magnum P.I. days as Sgt. Jack Ramsay, who specializes in tracking down malfunctioning household robots that have turned deadly. As he investigates a series of incidents alongside his new partner (Cynthia Rhodes), Ramsay uncovers a conspiracy involving weaponized microchips and a ruthless defense contractor (Gene Simmons).

While Runaway fits Crichton’s signature theme of technology turning against its creators, the execution is hard to take seriously. Aside from Selleck’s struggles to find box-office success outside his small-screen fame, the film largely suffers from the less-than-threatening spider robots as well as Simmons’s over-the-top villain role. Conceptually, however, Runaway’s exploration of rogue automation and the accessibility of artificial intelligence to the masses is more relevant today than it was in 1984.

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3

‘Spacehunter: Adventures in the Forbidden Zone’ (1983)

Ernie Hudson, Peter Strauss and Molly Ringwald in 'Spacehunter'
Ernie Hudson, Peter Strauss and Molly Ringwald in ‘Spacehunter’
Image via Columbia Pictures

Released during the early ’80s boom of space-themed adventures, Spacehunter: Adventures in the Forbidden Zone follows a rugged bounty hunter (Peter Strauss) who ventures into a post-apocalyptic wasteland planet to rescue three kidnapped women. Along the way, he teams up with a scrappy young scavenger (Molly Ringwald) as they battle mutants, raiders, and a tyrannical overlord.

The film was originally released in 3D, part of a brief craze that swept theaters in the early 1980s. Unfortunately, the gimmick overshadowed the movie itself, and it quickly faded from view. Today, its colorful world-building and pulpy tone make it a fun relic of the era’s adventurous sci-fi spirit.

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2

‘The Hidden’ (1987)

Kyle MacLachlan firing a flamethrower in The Hidden
Kyle MacLachlan firing a flamethrower in The Hidden
Image via New Line Cinema

The Hidden begins as a gritty crime thriller when a mysterious criminal embarks on a violent spree in a Los Angeles bank. Soon an FBI agent (Kyle MacLachlan) and an LAPD detective (Michael Nouri) discover the shocking truth: the killer is actually a parasitic alien lifeform that jumps from host to host while indulging in humanity’s most destructive impulses.

Despite a strong 76% score on Rotten Tomatoes and a clever, genre-blending premise, The Hidden was hardly a blockbuster success given its modest budget. The blend of sci-fi and cop-movie tropes may have confused audiences expecting something more conventional. In retrospect, the film’s wild energy and inventive concept have made it a cult favorite among fans of ’80s genre cinema.

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1

‘Outland’ (1981)

Combining the Old West aspects of High Noon with the space tension of Alien, 1981’s Outland could easily pass as a spirited spinoff of Ridley Scott’s breakout film. Starring Sean Connery, still shedding his James Bond image, the Peter Hyams sci-fi thriller features the legendary actor as a federal marshal on duty in a mining colony located on Jupiter’s moon Io. He investigates a string of apparent accidental deaths of workers on the colony connected to a powerful drug designed to make them work harder. Eventually, the marshal becomes the prime target of the powerful corporation behind the greater conspiracy.

Outland did not involve laser gun battles, space battles on ships, or imaginative creatures. It was too adult for a time when audiences would watch a Star Wars movie and rush to the store to buy their kids action figures. The film is a straight-up human thriller grounded by the Hitchcockian suspense of Hyams’s direction and Connery’s heroic but restrained performance. Additionally, its epic pre-CGI finale outside the mining facility with Connery battling the assassins in a spacesuit remains one of the most visually stunning sequences for any sci-fi movie to this day.


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Release Date

May 22, 1981

Runtime
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109 Minutes

Director

Peter Hyams

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Writers

Peter Hyams

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    Marshall William T. O’Niel

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    Frances Sternhagen

    Dr. Marian Lazarus

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Chase Stokes Shows Off Cryptic Tattoo After Kelsea Ballerini Split

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Chase Stokes is debuting his new ink just weeks after his split from Kelsea Ballerini.

The Outer Banks star, 33, showed off a new tattoo with a cryptic message via an Instagram post shared by tattoo artist, Winter Stone, on Thursday, March 12.

A video panned across the actor’s shoulders to showcase the script, which read, “They will judge us by our fruit.”

Followers pointed out in the comments that the phrase appears to be taken from the Bible, specifically, Matthew 7:16. In this passage, Jesus Christ warned his disciples about people’s actions rather than their words.

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Chase Stokes Hints at Kelsea Ballerini Split in Cryptic Messages After Europe Reunion I m Blocked 2218026796 2247545311


Related: Chase Stokes Hints at Kelsea Ballerini Split in Cryptic Messages: ‘I’m Blocked’

Chase Stokes’ new cryptic social media messages have fans thinking his relationship with Kelsea Ballerini is over again. “Don’t believe the media,” Stokes, 33, wrote via his Instagram Story on Thursday, November 20, raising eyebrows among his followers. “I’m blocked, I did nothing wrong.” The Outer Banks star added, “Sorry” with a red heart emoji. […]

Last month, Stokes and his ex, Ballerini, 32, called it quits for the third time in their on-again, off-again relationship.

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“Kelsea and Chase have broken up again. It happened just the other day,” a source exclusively told Us Weekly in February.

The insider noted that Stokes “still isn’t ready to give up” on their relationship. For her part, Ballerini is officially “done” but is “taking it better” than their previous breakups, according to the source.

Romance rumors about Ballerini and Stokes first started in January 2023 when they were spotted at the College Football Playoff National Championship in Los Angeles. They pulled the plug on their relationship for the first time in September 2025.

They decided to reconnect two months later, and multiple sources exclusively confirmed to Us in November 2025 they were giving it another shot.

However, within weeks Stokes and Ballerini went their separate ways again.

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In December 2025, Ballerini and Stokes revealed they had reunited again via similar New Year’s Eve Instagram posts.

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Kelsea Ballerini Appears to Address Chase Stokes Split for the 1st Time


Related: Kelsea Ballerini Reunites With Chase Stokes, Says ‘I Really Love Love’

Kelsea Ballerini and Chase Stokes have reunited after splitting up two months ago.  On New Year’s Eve, Ballerini, 32, shared a photo via her Instagram Stories that revealed the twosome, in silhouette, apparently kissing outdoors at sunset.  “Messy year for the heart, messy year for the outside coming in, messy year for the way it […]

“Messy year for the heart, messy year for the outside coming in, messy year for the way it became an out of our hands portrayal of it,” Ballerini wrote via her Instagram Story on December 31, 2025. “But what I’ll say, and all I really care to share indefinitely with my personal life anymore, is that I really love love. I believe in it, I believe in him, and I believe in breaking patterns. Now go kiss your person and stop speculating.”

Over on his own Instagram Stories, Stokes also confirmed the couple’s reconciliation.

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“Something I’ve learned this year: don’t take advantage of the most beautiful things that in 33 years of life are fleeting,” he wrote. “Take accountability, learn from mistakes. Lean into love and say it often. 2026 my year of growth, my year of truth. Starting here, starting now. Happy new years ❤️.”

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30 Years Ago, Scream’s $1 Billion Franchise Was Nearly Ruined by an Interview With Its Star

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Sidney (Neve Campbell) and Billy (Skeet Ulrich) fighting in 'Scream.'

A great thriller usually has a solid buildup to an unexpected twist. A twist ending is the hook, line, and sinker of the horror genre, and nobody knew that better than Scream Director Wes Craven. The entire 7-film franchise is predicated upon the fact that no one knows who the killer is in any given movie. The twist endings are the lifeblood of Scream (no pun intended.) It’s the reason why audiences continue to flock to the theaters for the final reveal. Sure, all movies have a poignant shift or unexpected ending, but for horror films, the twist has become a staple.

One reason horror films are so successful is their reliance on discretion. Back in 1996, the internet was still in its infancy. Spoilers were very hard to come by, as nobody was on their tiny, rectangular electronic device 24/7. Although spoiling a movie was rare, that doesn’t mean it never happened. One actor almost learned the hard way. While making the press junket rounds for the original Scream film, one rising star let it slip that he was indeed the killer. The culprit? The Billy Loomis actor himself, Skeet Ulrich.

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Rising Star Skeet Ulrich Had Three Films Opening the Same Week

1996 was a busy year for Skeet Ulrich. While he was out and about promoting Scream, the actor had multiple films being released (which is obviously not uncommon.) Three films to be exact. Three films premiering the same week in May. The Craft and Last Dance were both released on May 3, 1996, while Boys was released on May 10. With Scream set to be released in December of that year, it’s safe to say Ulrich’s mind may have been elsewhere. Imagine living in a world before Scream. For context, this was before the ghostface mask was an iconic symbol of horror.

There’s no doubt that Ulrich was a teenage heartthrob, but best believe that his success was based on much more than good looks. The NYU alumnus studied under David Mamet and William H. Macy at the renowned Atlantic Theater Company. His training opened up opportunities for extra work, which is where he landed an uncredited role in Weekend at Bernie’s. After a brief appearance on the CBS Schoolbreak Special series, Ulrich began landing more prominent roles in feature films. By 1996, the actor was a hot commodity.

‘Scream’ Would Reunite Ulrich With ‘The Craft’ Costar Neve Campbell

Sidney (Neve Campbell) and Billy (Skeet Ulrich) fighting in 'Scream.'
Sidney (Neve Campbell) and Billy (Skeet Ulrich) fighting in ‘Scream.’
Image via Dimensions Films
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Casting Director Lisa Beach was responsible for assembling the players in Scream. Although Beach did not have a hand in putting together the cast of The Craft, she clearly saw potential in pairing up the duo of Neve Campbell and Skeet Ulrich once again. The move paid off. Together, the actors created such a toxic and complicated relationship between their characters, which ultimately leads up to the unexpected twist during the final act.

Actors typically learn the ins and outs of giving interviews through experience. It’s not something that’s taught in theater school, but rather a skill that is picked up over time. That being said, it’s almost guaranteed that every cast and crew member who had anything to do with the production of Scream would have had to sign an embargo agreement. Basically stating that certain details of the movie could not be leaked, posted, or written about before a certain date, either on or after the film’s release. This is common practice now, especially in the world of social media, but embargoes were most definitely in use in the ’90s as well. So here’s what happened.

Courteney Cox in Scream 7


‘Scream 7’ Director Reveals Very Different Ending That Test Audiences Rejected

The movie set a franchise record during its opening weekend at the box office.

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Skeet Ulrich Interview Nearly Tanked the Entire Franchise

Billy (Skeet Ulrich) and Sam (Melissa Barrera) in 'Scream 5.'
Billy (Skeet Ulrich) and Sam (Melissa Barrera) in ‘Scream 5.’
Image via Paramount Pictures

Things went awry very quickly. According to Ulrich, in 1996, circa the release dates of his three films in one week, he was doing a phone interview with Interview Magazine. One of the questions he was asked involved his next role. With Scream set for a December premiere, Ulrich eagerly responded, “Oh, I’m so excited! I get to play this serial killer!” It was only after the call ended, that the actor realized his epic mistake. “I called my publicist right away,” Ulrich would later state.

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Fast-forward to 2026. The franchise just released Scream 7, and has surpassed a gross total of $1 billion worldwide at the box office over those seven films. Not to mention the cultural impact that these films have had. The original Scream changed the way audiences look at slasher movies. The ghostface mask is one of the most popular and recognizable Halloween costumes each and every year. The franchise launched the careers of Neve Campbell, Matthew Lillard, David Arquette, Jamie Kennedy, and the actor who almost sabotaged it all, Skeet Ulrich.

It’s hard to imagine the consequences, had Ulrich’s statements not been redacted by Interview Magazine (which they were.) Would Scream be as effective if everyone went into it already knowing the killer’s identity? I truly doubt it. If Scream bombs at the box office, it’s just a blip on the radar. The Wayans Brothers never create Scary Movie. Anna Faris never gets her big break as Cindy. This quickly begins to snowball. A world without Sidney Prescott, Dewey Riley, Gale Weathers, and Billy Loomis doesn’t seem real. Thankfully, Scream King Skeet Ulrich dodged a bullet, something that his character Billy couldn’t do. Spoiler alert.


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Release Date

December 20, 1996

Runtime

112 minutes

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Writers

Kevin Williamson

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Producers

Bob Weinstein, Cary Woods, Cathy Konrad, Harvey Weinstein

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