If you loved the campy, psychedelic sci-fi adventure of 'Barbarella' (1968), you're in for a treat! This article explores 10 movies and shows that capture the same whimsical, over-the-top spirit of Jane Fonda's iconic space heroine. From retro-futuristic aesthetics to bold storytelling, these picks will satisfy your craving for more wild, otherworldly escapades.

Zardoz (1974)
Description: A bizarre, visually striking sci-fi film that explores themes of immortality, class struggle, and human evolution, wrapped in a surreal and often absurd narrative.
Fact: The film was shot on location in Ireland. Sean Connery's iconic costume, including a red loincloth, has become a memorable part of sci-fi cinema.


The Rocky Horror Picture Show (1975)
Description: A cult musical blending sci-fi, horror, and campy humor, with flamboyant characters, surreal visuals, and a celebration of eccentricity and rebellion.
Fact: The film is based on a stage musical and has become famous for its midnight screenings, where audiences participate with props and callbacks.


Logan's Run (1976)
Description: A dystopian sci-fi film with a mix of action and philosophical themes, set in a futuristic society with striking visual design and a focus on youth and rebellion.
Fact: The film's iconic 'Carousel' sequence was inspired by a concept of ritualistic renewal. It won a Special Academy Award for its visual effects.


Starcrash (1978)
Description: A low-budget but visually ambitious space adventure with a campy tone, featuring heroic quests, bizarre aliens, and over-the-top action sequences.
Fact: The film was an Italian production, often compared to 'Star Wars' for its similar themes. It starred a young David Hasselhoff in one of his early roles.


Flash Gordon (1980)
Description: A campy, visually vibrant space adventure with a mix of action, humor, and fantastical elements, featuring a hero's journey through a colorful, otherworldly universe.
Fact: The film's soundtrack was composed and performed by the rock band Queen. It was initially a commercial failure but later gained a cult following.


Heavy Metal (1981)
Description: An anthology of animated sci-fi and fantasy stories with a psychedelic aesthetic, blending eroticism, violence, and surreal visuals in a futuristic setting.
Fact: The film is based on the adult-oriented fantasy magazine of the same name. It features a soundtrack with prominent rock and metal artists.


Dune (1984)
Description: An epic sci-fi saga with a rich, otherworldly aesthetic, exploring themes of destiny, power, and mysticism in a visually immersive universe.
Fact: The film's production design included massive, elaborate sets and costumes. The soundtrack features the rock band Toto and Brian Eno.


Spaceballs (1987)
Description: A parody of sci-fi tropes with a humorous, irreverent take on space adventures, filled with visual gags and satirical nods to the genre.
Fact: The film was directed by Mel Brooks and features John Candy in a memorable role. It was initially a box office disappointment but later became a cult classic.


The Fifth Element (1997)
Description: A visually extravagant sci-fi adventure with a mix of action, humor, and romance, set in a vibrant, futuristic world filled with eccentric characters and imaginative designs.
Fact: The film's costume designs, particularly the Diva's outfit, were created by Jean-Paul Gaultier. It was inspired by French comic book aesthetics.


Valerian and the City of a Thousand Planets (2017)
Description: A visually stunning space opera with a whimsical tone, blending action, romance, and fantastical world-building in a colorful, futuristic universe.
Fact: The film is based on the French comic series 'Valérian and Laureline,' which also inspired elements of 'The Fifth Element.' It features one of the most expensive production budgets in European cinema.
