10 Fresh But Underrated Sci-Fi Gems to Stream on Netflix and Prime Video

If you are a sci-fi enthusiast and craving something fresh and thrilling, but feeling like you've already binged through all the popular titles, fret not. Here are some seriously underrated sci-fi gems from recent years that you might have missed.

The Vast of Night (2019) — Prime Video

Set in the 1950s, this 2019 follows a young switchboard operator and a charismatic radio DJ in a small New Mexico town. One mysterious night, they stumble upon a strange frequency that changes their lives forever.

What's awesome about this film is its unique storytelling style and the way it builds suspense. It's like a love letter to those old-school sci-fi stories where the unknown was enough to keep you on the edge of your seat.

The Adam Project (2022) — Netflix

This one is a bit more mainstream, but it feels like it didn't get the credit it deserved. Think time travel, action-packed scenes, and some real heartstring-tugging moments. It's all about a time-traveling pilot who buddies up with his younger self and even his dearly departed dad to make peace with his past and, oh yeah, save the future while he's at it.

What makes The Adam Project stand out is its emotional core. Sure, it has all the cool sci-fi elements and slick action sequences, but at its heart, it's a story about family, loss, and healing.

Freaks (2018) — Prime Video

This film is a hidden treasure that deserves way more attention. It's a story about a 7-year-old girl with mysterious powers, who's kept isolated from the outside world by her paranoid father. But why? That's the question that'll keep you hooked.

If you're up for a movie that challenges the norm and keeps you thinking long after it's over, Freaks is your go-to.

Vivarium (2019) — Netflix

Vivarium, available on Netflix, is a mind-bender in the truest sense. Imagine a young couple looking for a perfect home, only to find themselves trapped in a surreal, maze-like neighborhood of identical houses.

The movie plays with existential themes and offers a unique take on life's monotonies and traps. It's eerie, it's thought-provoking, and it's something you won't forget in a hurry.

Nope (2022) — Prime Video

This film is a unique blend of sci-fi and horror, and it definitely deserves more attention. The story follows residents in a lonely gulch of inland California who bear witness to an uncanny and chilling discovery.

The film masterfully builds suspense and intrigue, keeping you on the edge of your seat. The visuals are stunning, and the storytelling is top-notch. If you're a fan of sci-fi that's tinged with horror elements and love a good, mysterious storyline, Nope is a must-see.

They Cloned Tyrone (2023) — Netflix

They Cloned Tyrone is a delightful mix of sci-fi and comedy, offering a fresh and entertaining take on the genre. The story revolves around an unlikely trio investigating a series of eerie events, uncovering a nefarious conspiracy in the process.

The film is packed with witty dialogues, quirky characters, and an engaging plot that keeps you laughing and guessing. The chemistry among the cast is fantastic, making their adventure even more enjoyable.

The Tomorrow War (2021) — Prime Video

The Tomorrow War, streaming on Prime Video, is a high-octane ride into the future. It's set in a world where humanity's future is at stake due to an alien invasion, and the solution lies in drafting soldiers from the past to fight in the future.

Sounds wild, right? Chris Pratt leads the charge, and he's as charismatic as ever. What makes this movie stand out is its interesting take on time travel and the emotional connections between the characters.

See You Yesterday (2019) — Netflix

The story of See You Yesterday focuses on two brilliant teenage science prodigies who invent backpack time machines. But when a personal tragedy strikes, they embark on a series of dangerous trips to the past to save a loved one.

It's not just about the cool tech or the thrilling aspect of time travel, but the film also tackles serious issues like police brutality, making it both thought-provoking and entertaining.

M3GAN (2022) — Prime Video

M3GAN revolves around a lifelike doll programmed to be a child's greatest companion and a parent's greatest ally. But, as you can guess, things take a sinister turn. M3GAN is a blend of AI gone wrong and horror tropes, but it's done with a flair that still keeps it fresh and interesting.

If you're up for a sci-fi thriller that'll give you a few chills, this is the one to watch.

Project Power (2020) — Netflix

Project Power revolves around a drug that grants temporary superpowers hits the streets, and chaos ensues. What makes this movie a must-watch is its unique concept and the way it handles the superhero genre.

The performances are solid, and the action scenes are top-notch, making it a thrilling ride from start to finish.