10 Sci-Fi Films Tackling Discrimination

Description: An alien arrives on Earth with a message of peace but is met with fear and hostility, highlighting humanity's tendency to discriminate against the unknown.

Fact: The film was one of the first to use the theme of an alien visitor as a metaphor for Cold War tensions and was added to the National Film Registry in

Description: In a society where genetic engineering determines one's social status, 'Gattaca' explores the discrimination against those born naturally, known as "in-valids."

Fact: The film's title is derived from the four nitrogenous bases of DNA: guanine, adenine, thymine, and cytosine. It was shot in 55 days with a budget of $36 million.

Description: While primarily known for its action, 'The Matrix' subtly addresses themes of control, freedom, and the discrimination against those who challenge the system.

Fact: The film's "bullet time" effect revolutionized visual effects in cinema. It was also the first film ever to be released on video while it was still being shown in theaters.

Description: This film explores the discrimination against artificial beings, particularly a child-like robot seeking love and acceptance in a world that fears and rejects him.

Fact: The project was originally conceived by Stanley Kubrick, who passed it on to Steven Spielberg before his death. The film's ending was a point of contention between the two directors.

Description: In a dystopian future where emotions are outlawed, 'Equilibrium' examines the discrimination against those who feel, showcasing the suppression of individuality.

Fact: The film was inspired by Ray Bradbury's 'Fahrenheit 451' and Aldous Huxley's 'Brave New World'. It was shot in Berlin, Germany, to give it a more oppressive, totalitarian feel.

Description: Set in an alternate 2010, 'District 9' explores the plight of alien refugees on Earth, treated as second-class citizens and confined to slums, reflecting themes of xenophobia and apartheid.

Fact: The film was shot in Johannesburg, South Africa, using real locations to enhance the documentary-like feel. It was also nominated for four Academy Awards, including Best Picture.

Description: Spanning centuries, 'Cloud Atlas' explores various forms of discrimination, from slavery to corporate exploitation, through interconnected stories.

Fact: The film features actors in multiple roles across different time periods, showcasing the theme of interconnectedness. It was a box office disappointment but has since gained a cult following.

Description: In a future where the rich live on a luxurious space station while the poor suffer on a ruined Earth, 'Elysium' tackles class discrimination and the fight for equality.

Fact: The film's director, Neill Blomkamp, also directed 'District 9', continuing his exploration of social issues through sci-fi. The space station Elysium was entirely CGI.

Description: This sequel to the iconic 'Blade Runner' delves into the discrimination against replicants, synthetic humans, exploring themes of identity, humanity, and the ethics of artificial life.

Fact: The film's production was so secretive that even the actors didn't know the full plot until the movie was nearly finished. It also features a cameo by the original film's star, Harrison Ford.

Description: While not strictly sci-fi, this film uses a fantastical creature to explore themes of discrimination, love, and acceptance in Cold War-era America.

Fact: It won four Academy Awards, including Best Picture, and was praised for its visual style and storytelling. The creature was designed by the same artist who worked on 'Pan's Labyrinth'.