Obscure 90s Sci-Fi Still Hailed by Fans Was Overshadowed by The Matrix

Back in 1999, The Matrix fever swept the whole world. Its inventive visual effects, performances and the very concept were brand new and breathtaking, and it all still holds up in 2024 as no other movie about simulated realities managed to beat it.

However, few cinema lovers know that the same year brought us another sci-fi that offered quite a similar premise, but was clearly outshined by the Wachowskis’ masterpiece. Fans still claim it deserves to be heavily reassessed by sci-fi enjoyers.

This film starts by introducing us to a computer scientist who becomes the primary suspect when his colleague is murdered. The point is the latter invented a virtual reality simulation of 1937 Los Angeles, where people are unaware of the fact they’re programs.

Therefore, this sci-fi is set in various realities at the same time, as it shows us the fictional events of 1999 and simulated 1937 (and not only that, believe us). It explores the ominous possibility of computer-simulated universes and people’s lives in them.

You can see that this synopsis is really reminiscent of The Matrix; however, it is enhanced by multi-dimensional narration. However, unlike Keanu Reeves ’ gem, it appears to be an adaptation of Daniel F. Galouye’s 1964 sci-fi novel Simulacron-3 that presented an early description of a simulated reality.

Titled The Thirteenth Floor, this flick obviously fell victim to its release date, as it was aired two months after The Matrix and quickly dubbed a pale copy of it, then becoming forgotten. Therefore, it didn’t manage to gain enough viewership and box office money.

Nevertheless, its captivating plot and outstanding visuals make a solid must-watch of it. It displays both the intrigues of the 1930s and the aftermath of the 1990s’ technological progress, when computers and VR weren't such a common thing as they’re nowadays.

If you’re a huge The Matrix fan, you’ll definitely like this movie and its ideas. Besides, it can be also compared to another sci-fi that was overshadowed by the Wachowskis’ gem, 1998’s Dark City, and both these must-see underdog films were way ahead of their time.

“I prefer The Matrix but I agree that The Thirteenth Floor is absolutely phenomenal, underrated and it was unfortunately released against a titan,” concludes Redditor @BigOnCozy. Indeed, there's no shame standing in the shadow of such a movie giant.

Check out whether The Thirteenth Floor holds up like its notorious twin, as it’s now available for watching on Prime and Apple TV+ .