No matter how you feel about Valentine’s Day – whether you’re spending it with someone special, enjoying time alone, or just ignoring it – there are tons of great movies to watch. While a classic romantic comedy is always a popular choice – you know, a lighthearted and heartwarming love story – you don’t have to limit yourself! If you’re into other genres, like science fiction, there’s no reason to put your favorite types of movies aside just because it’s the holiday.
Need a movie night idea? While science fiction films are known for futuristic technology and space adventures, they can also be surprisingly good at showing us what it means to be human, especially when it comes to love and connection. If you’re looking for something a little different this Valentine’s Day, here are ten sci-fi films that fit the bill.
‘All of You’ (2024)
Apple TV+
In the film All of You, neuroscientist Mia (Sophia Lillis) develops a groundbreaking technology that maps shared emotions. Unexpectedly, it connects her to Alex (Fionn Whitehead), a man living on the other side of the world. They form a deep emotional bond, despite being unable to physically be together.
I was completely hooked by the really smart idea behind this movie, and honestly, the connection between Sophia Lillis and Fionn Whitehead is what makes it. It’s definitely a bit of a complex story, but if you and your partner are sci-fi fans looking for something romantic and original to watch, this is perfect for a cozy night in!
‘Starman’ (1984)
Starman
John Carpenter is best known for horror and science fiction, so it might be surprising to hear he made a great romance film. His 1984 movie, Starman, is a perfect example of the sci-fi romance genre for fans of that time. The story centers around an alien, played by Jeff Bridges, who disguises himself as a woman’s deceased husband to avoid being captured by the government. Karen Allen plays the widow, Jenny Hayden.
Okay, so this movie is basically a really sweet and surprisingly charming love story between two people who couldn’t be more different. It’s got just enough sci-fi to feel special and pull you in, but at its heart, it’s a really thoughtful, unforgettable romance. If you’re a fan of 80s films, especially something to watch on Valentine’s Day, Starman is absolutely perfect.
‘Never Let Me Go’ (2010)
Fox Searchlight Pictures
Though often overlooked, Never Let Me Go is a highly praised film that’s deeply moving. While it hints at science fiction, the story is primarily an emotional experience. It follows Kathy (Carey Mulligan), Tommy (Andrew Garfield), and Ruth (Keira Knightley) as they grow up in a secluded boarding school, and gradually uncover the truth about their unusual lives. The film delicately reveals secrets that challenge everything they thought they knew.
Like many stories about growing up, this film has a touch of melancholy – we’ve all been clumsy, confused teenagers trying to understand love and friendship. However, this thoughtful and understated story, which blends coming-of-age themes with science fiction, is truly memorable. It’s the kind of film that will stay with you and spark conversations with loved ones about life and technology long after you’ve seen it.
‘The Girl Who Leapt Through Time’ (2006)
Kadokawa Herald Pictures
Directed by Mamoru Hosoda, known for the lovely film Wolf Children, and animated by Madhouse, The Girl Who Leapt Through Time is an enjoyable anime for both fans of the genre and science fiction lovers. The story follows Makoto Konno, a typical high school student who gains the ability to time travel from her aunt. She soon discovers the exciting possibilities – and potential problems – that come with such an amazing power. The main voice cast includes Riisa Naka, Takuya Ishida, Mitsutaka Itakura, and Sachie Hara in this beloved time travel tale.
This highly praised animated film won the Japan Academy Film Prize for Animation of the Year and received excellent reviews worldwide. While initially upbeat, the story is surprisingly emotional, as Makoto’s carefree actions unexpectedly complicate a developing romance. It’s a fresh take on the time-loop concept, brought to life with stunning animation and visuals. Be prepared for a powerful and moving ending that will likely strengthen your own connections with loved ones.
‘Vanilla Sky’ (2001)
Paramount Pictures
Tom Cruise stars in Vanilla Sky, an American adaptation of the film Open Your Eyes. He plays David Aames, a wealthy magazine publisher whose life dramatically changes after a terrible car accident leaves him disfigured and his girlfriend dead. Although plastic surgery restores his appearance, Aames struggles to distinguish between what’s real and what isn’t, experiencing bizarre events and leaving him with more confusion than clarity. The film also features Penélope Cruz and Cameron Diaz as Sofia and Julie, respectively.
While it might not seem like typical science fiction at first, Vanilla Sky is a strong romantic drama. It successfully combines suspense and mystery, and Tom Cruise gives a compelling performance in a story full of unexpected twists. The film is both dreamy and touching, and it’s a solid reimagining of an already excellent sci-fi movie.
‘WALL-E’ (2008)
Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures
WALL-E is a sweet and adventurous story about a little robot who continues to collect trash on Earth long after people have left for space. He finds another robot named EVE, and together they try to bring life back to Earth with a special plant. During their journey, they uncover the story of what happened to humanity and a scheme to keep Earth a wasteland.
WALL-E isn’t just a visually stunning and imaginative film about the future; it’s also a touching love story between WALL-E and EVE, and delivers a powerful message about protecting the environment. While WALL-E and EVE don’t say much, the voice acting from Sigourney Weaver, Jeff Garlin, and Fred Willard is fantastic. It’s consistently ranked as one of Pixar’s greatest achievements, and makes for a wonderful movie to watch on Valentine’s Day.
‘Arrival’ (2016)
Paramount Pictures
Arrival is a moving film that gently reminds us of the precious and delicate nature of love and life. Directed by Denis Villeneuve, the movie centers on Louise Banks, a linguist who faces an extraordinary challenge when twelve alien spacecraft appear on Earth. Louise is responsible for communicating with the extraterrestrial visitors and preventing misunderstandings that could lead to conflict. The film stars Amy Adams as Louise, alongside Jeremy Renner, Forest Whitaker, Michael Stuhlbarg, and Tzi Ma.
Okay, I know what you’re thinking – a sci-fi movie for Valentine’s Day? Trust me on this one! While it’s definitely got those tense, alien-encounter moments that keep you on the edge of your seat, underneath it all, Arrival is actually a really beautiful story about love. It doesn’t necessarily wrap everything up with a neat little bow, but it truly celebrates love in a unique way. Honestly, it’s the perfect mix of smart, hard sci-fi and a surprisingly touching romance, and Amy Adams is absolutely incredible in it. It’s a movie I love and think everyone should see!
‘About Time’ (2013)
Universal Pictures
About Time is a romantic comedy with a twist: it involves time travel. When Tim Lake (Domhnall Gleeson) turns 21, his father reveals he has the ability to revisit moments from his past. Tim tries to use this power to find love, but things become more complicated as the story unfolds. Rachel McAdams plays Mary, the woman he falls for.
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Look, time travel stories rarely go smoothly, and this one is no different – things definitely get complicated. But what really struck me was how the film never lost sight of the love story at its heart. It’s a beautifully bittersweet movie, honestly. It really captures the joy and pain that come with any meaningful relationship, and the connection between Domhnall Gleeson and Rachel McAdams is just electric. Seriously, bring tissues – you will need them.
‘Interstellar’ (2014)
Paramount Pictures
Christopher Nolan’s film Interstellar might not seem like typical Valentine’s Day viewing, but it actually contains a deeply emotional love story alongside its complex science and time-bending concepts. The film, set in the distant future, centers on astronaut Joseph Cooper (played by Matthew McConaughey) and his mission to find a new home for humanity after Earth becomes uninhabitable due to widespread environmental problems.
No matter how far we explore space, we’re always connected to the people we love. The movie Interstellar, with incredible performances from Matthew McConaughey, Anne Hathaway, Jessica Chastain, and Ellen Burstyn, is a deeply moving experience. If you enjoy science fiction that explores what it means to be human, this is the perfect film to watch on Valentine’s Day.
‘Beyond the Infinite Two Minutes’ (2020)
Tollywood
Beyond the Infinite Two Minutes is a unique science fiction film made during the COVID-19 pandemic. Remarkably, it was filmed almost entirely on a cell phone in a single, continuous shot. The movie centers around a café owner who realizes his computer screen shows him events from two minutes in the future. It’s the feature film debut for director Junta Yamaguchi, and stars Kazunari Tosa, Riko Fujitani, Masashi Suwa, and Aki Asakara.
As a movie fan, I absolutely loved Beyond the Infinite Two Minutes. It’s genuinely funny, the acting is fantastic, and it’s a perfect length – thankfully, it doesn’t overstay its welcome! It didn’t have the best start in theaters because of the pandemic, but thankfully more people discovered it when it came out digitally, and everyone seemed to agree it’s great. What’s really special is how it tells a truly captivating story despite being made on a smaller budget. And, if you’re looking for something to watch on Valentine’s Day, I highly recommend it – it has a sweet little romance that’s sure to make you smile (once you’ve recovered from the mind-bending plot, of course!).
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2026-02-07 23:09