5 Sci-Fi Moves That Have Aged Poorly Thanks to Technology

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Technology’s progression has significantly accelerated ever since the internet became mainstream. What was once futuristic just a few years ago is now outdated. With regular updates and advancements, we’re always on the hunt for the next major innovation. As a society, we’ve largely accepted the concept of planned obsolescence, but the fast-paced evolution of modern technology has been harsh on some beloved films. Since movies often depict a specific moment in time, those that heavily rely on emerging tech or predictions about future digital magic are particularly susceptible to aging prematurely.

In light of today’s rapidly evolving technology, let’s reflect upon five science fiction movies that appear outdated due to technological advancements.

1) Brainscan

Let me clarify, we’re not implying that Brainscan is a poor movie. Instead, it serves as a nostalgic journey, offering an engaging storyline where the character Michael (Edward Furlong) battles against a sinister computer game. The experience is customized to each player in a distinct way.

Yet, while this movie heavily showcases modern tech, the equipment Michael uses is mostly outdated now. CRT monitors and CD-ROM discs are as extinct as the buffalo. It’s challenging to create an enduring film when it heavily relies on technology, which might explain why some of us still find a connection with this one, despite it being a relic of the ’90s.

2) Hackers

In the 90s, this thriller doesn’t have the typical futuristic elements we usually link with science fiction, but its cyberpunk atmosphere makes it suitable for this list. The movie focuses on a team of young hackers trying to stop a wicked plan involving oil tanker spills.

The movie emphasizes the outdated tech used by showcasing scenes such as when the main characters admire Angelina Jolie’s Apple PowerBook Duo 280c with a 28.8k modem, which today would barely function as a paperweight. Despite its aged appearance and inaccurate portrayal of hacking, this film remains beloved by many who watched it growing up.

3) Johnny Mnemonic

Despite facing criticism over the years, the sci-fi film “Johnny Mnemonic” has managed to maintain a small but dedicated fanbase. However, it has been criticized for subpar acting and a confusing storyline. Now, three decades after its release, the movie is drawing fresh criticism due to its portrayal of future technology that some find offensive or inappropriate.

In this scenario, the image focuses on the title character, a data courier played by Keanu Reeves, who possesses an implant in his brain that allows him to store vast amounts of information. This 80-gigabyte capacity may have seemed impressive in 1995; however, today’s hard drives typically begin at 256 gigabytes and can reach several terabytes. Therefore, some viewers might find it amusing or outdated to revisit this futuristic portrayal after so many years have passed.

4) Tron

In 1982, when Tron was first shown, the technology depicted in the movie was revolutionary and state-of-the-art. Over four decades later, the fundamental concepts upon which the film is based now feel outdated. Considering its era of creation, the movie is enjoyable, but if you’re searching for a work that remains as fresh today as it was then, Tron doesn’t fit the bill.

In this movie, we journey with Kevin Flynn, a skilled hacker, who gets pulled into a digital realm due to an intelligent software’s compulsion. Inside, he battles for survival. The visuals within are still captivating, although the computer-generated imagery (CGI) appears rather outdated today. The portrayal of hardware and software is no longer relevant in our current tech era. However, this film was revolutionary for its time, and its storyline continues to be engaging despite some technology becoming dated.

5) Alien

One of the all-time best science fiction movies, and arguably the best, is “Alien”. However, some of the advanced technology shown in the movie, released in 1979, has turned out to be remarkably similar to technology from the late 20th century rather than what we might expect in the year 2122 when the film is set. For instance, the black-and-white computer monitors on the spaceship Nostromo are more akin to the technology of 1979 than the high-tech gadgetry that would presumably be seen in 2122.

Should you not be discouraged by the age of certain technology, there’s plenty of reasons to cherish this legendary image. This story about a spaceship tormented by a malicious alien is an exhilarating adventure with memorable creature designs, fast-paced action, and an unforgettable performance by Sigourney Weaver as Warrant Officer Ellen Ripley. The combination of these elements and more solidify its status as a beloved classic, with fans revisiting it frequently despite the occasional outdated finer points when looked back upon.

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2025-07-21 00:10