Netflix's January 2024 Lineup Just Added 5 Must-Watch Sci-Fi Movies

If you’re tired of all those holiday movies you’ve been watching for the last month and are ready to start the new year with some sci-fi flicks, then you’ll be pleased to hear that Netflix is releasing some outstanding science fiction classics to watch this January.

The Kitchen (2024)

6.8/10 IMDB

A brand new Netflix original film, this British-produced science fiction drama is due to hit the streaming platform on January 12th. This is Daniel Kaluuya’s (Get Out, Black Panther, Nope) first directorial debut, alongside nominated newcomer filmmaker, Kibwe Tavares (Robots of Brixton). According to the movie’s synopsis, the story takes place in a future version of London. However, unlike most future inspired thrillers, this narrative focuses entirely on the poverty-stricken members of society who must fight as a community to keep their homes in a district known as The Kitchen. With some seemingly captivating visuals and a fascinating concept behind the film, here is a film clearly not to be missed.

Gravity (2013)

7.7/10 IMDB

Directed, written, and produced by notable Mexican filmmaker Alfonso Cuarón (known for Children of Men, Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkhaban, Y tu mamá también), this sci-fi thriller exclusively stars Sandra Bullock and George Clooney as astronauts attempting to return back to Earth after the accidental destruction of their Space Shuttle. The movie may sound dull initially, with only two actors in its entire 90 minute run and being set mainly in the blackness of computer-generated space. Yet Gravity’s excellence lies in its true meaning, and themes of spirituality, religion, and rebirth. This film is sure to move you every time you watch this impassioned epic.

The Purge: Election Year (2016)

6/10 IMDB

Although the Purge films have never gained the highest of critical reception, it is a franchise which has inevitably found its way embedded into popular culture. Election Year is the third instalment of the Purge movies and last to be both written and directed by the franchises’ creator James DeMonaco. This sequel, although similar in premise to its predecessors, promises a little more depth to the story; tackling political matters behind the dystopian institution which founded the purge to begin with. For this reason, as well for including some of the best gore and violence in the series, it’s considered by many fans to be the best of the Purge films for adding more background and complexity to the franchise.

Freaks (2018)

6.7/10 IMDB

This mind bending sci-fi thriller may have slipped largely under the radar upon its release in 2018, yet it genuinely presents science fiction at its best. The story of a young girl seeking escape from her over-protective father, upon escaping for the first time she begins to learn about the strange new world outside, as well as the truth about her mother as her abilities begin to manifest. What is fantastic about this movie is how it honestly keeps you guessing throughout, supported by a number of recognizable supporting actors who provide some phenomenal performances. Freaks is a true science fiction marvel that you are unlikely to forget.

Cowboys & Aliens (2011)

6/10 IMDB

One of Jon Favreau's earlier directorial successes, this sci-fi western delivers the mystery and excitement of both genres. Featuring masterful performances from big screen heroes Daniel Craig and Harrison Ford, this action-packed adventure ignores any goofiness of its initial concept, and instead provides a serious western flick with an added science fiction story. Including some stunning visual effects, plenty of imagination, and an intriguing plot, this blockbuster supplies plenty of entertainment value. Certainly a fantastic film to watch when looking for something with more of an edge.