Science fiction often explores the future, technology, and the unknown, but it also delves into the very human aspects of life, including family and tradition. This curated list of 10 films blends the fantastical with the familiar, showcasing how family traditions can be both a source of comfort and conflict in futuristic or alternate settings. These films not only entertain but also offer a unique perspective on the importance of family bonds and the evolution of traditions in the face of change.
E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial (1982)
Description: A heartwarming tale of a boy who befriends an alien, highlighting how family traditions and bonds can extend beyond human connections, embracing the unknown.
Fact: The film was shot in chronological order to help the child actors, particularly Henry Thomas, deliver more authentic performances. The iconic bike scene was inspired by a real-life experience of Steven Spielberg.
Watch Now 
Back to the Future (1985)
Description: Marty McFly's time-travel adventure to the past not only threatens his existence but also challenges his family's traditions and dynamics, highlighting the importance of family bonds through time.
Fact: The DeLorean car used in the film was chosen because its gull-wing doors made it look futuristic. The film's script was rejected by several studios before being picked up by Universal.
Watch Now 
The Iron Giant (1999)
Description: A young boy forms an unlikely friendship with a giant robot, exploring themes of family, identity, and the traditions of humanity through their bond.
Fact: The film was a box office disappointment but has since gained a cult following. It was inspired by Ted Hughes' novel "The Iron Man."
Watch Now 
The Time Machine (2002)
Description: A scientist travels through time to save his fiancée, encountering different eras and civilizations, reflecting on how family traditions evolve over time.
Fact: This film is a remake of the 1960 film of the same name, which was based on H.G. Wells' novel. The time machine in the film was designed to look like a Victorian-era device.
Watch Now 
The Incredibles (2004)
Description: This animated film explores the life of a family of superheroes who must balance their secret identities with family life, showcasing how family traditions adapt to extraordinary circumstances.
Fact: The film was originally conceived as a James Bond-like spy movie before evolving into a family-focused superhero story. It was Pixar's first film to feature an entirely human cast.
Watch Now 
The Day After Tomorrow (2004)
Description: A father's journey to save his son during a global catastrophe showcases the strength of family bonds and the traditions of survival and protection.
Fact: The film was inspired by the book "The Coming Global Superstorm" by Art Bell and Whitley Strieber. It was one of the first films to use real-time weather data for its special effects.
Watch Now 
Meet the Robinsons (2007)
Description: An orphan boy travels to the future and learns about the importance of family, innovation, and the traditions that bind them together.
Fact: The film features a cameo by Tom Selleck as the voice of Cornelius Robinson. It was one of the last films to use traditional hand-drawn animation techniques.
Watch Now 
Interstellar (2014)
Description: A father embarks on a space mission to find a new home for humanity, exploring themes of sacrifice, family, and the traditions that transcend time and space.
Fact: The film was inspired by Kip Thorne's theories on wormholes and black holes. It features real scientific concepts and was praised for its accuracy in depicting space travel.
Watch Now 
Tomorrowland (2015)
Description: A girl discovers a pin that transports her to a utopian future, where she learns about the importance of family and the traditions that shape our future.
Fact: The film was inspired by the Tomorrowland section of Disney theme parks. It features a cameo by George Clooney, who also served as a producer.
Watch Now 
Coco (2017)
Description: Miguel's journey to the Land of the Dead to unlock the real story behind his family's history and traditions, celebrating the Day of the Dead, a tradition deeply rooted in family and remembrance.
Fact: The film was inspired by director Lee Unkrich's love for Mexican culture and the traditions surrounding the Day of the Dead. It was the first Pixar film with a primarily Latin American cast.
Watch Now 
