Does the eclipse have you questioning how small and insignificant you are compared to the rest of the universe? Are you fascinated by what lies beyond? Or perhaps, is the science far too much and you need an escape? Whatever your feelings on space and the Great American Eclipse, follow this flowchart to find the perfect piece of sci-fi media for your tastes.
Apollo 13
If NASA’s science headlines grab your attention, “Apollo 13,” starring Tom Hanks, is right for you. A modern classic, “Apollo 13” tells the true story of three astronauts stuck in space after a systems failure with no way to return. Though one could easily look up the story of the mission online and spoil the ending, the movie makes the situation incredibly nail-biting, even if you know the end result.
The Martian
“The Martian” feels like a fictional Apollo 13. Both the book and movie are highly science-based pieces of fiction following Mark Watney (in the movie, played by Matt Damon), an astronaut who is left behind on Mars when he is injured in an emergency evacuation. Watney has to use his resourcefulness to defy the odds, contact Earth and return home. The movie is an incredibly faithful adaptation of the book, which goes into great detail while also keeping the stakes and emotion high.
Ender’s Game
“Ender’s Game” by Orson Scott Card will make you think and satisfy a science fiction craving. A science-fiction classic, it is an absolutely perfect novel which I have read at least four times. The book follows Ender Wiggin, a six-year-old who is pushed into a role that could alter the fate of the universe. Simultaneously featuring deep philosophical questions, action, and bullying, “Ender’s Game” is a quick and easy read that will stick with you forever. Do not bother with the movie; it is all flash and sucks the life out of a perfect story.
Wall-E
Need a break from science and want to experience love? “Wall-E” is for you. Beautifully animated and depicting love without words, “Wall-E” follows a small robot tasked with cleaning up the Earth after humanity destroyed it, and his mission to bring it back.
Signs
The movie “Signs” is perfect if you want it all: a classic science fiction alien invasion, a good jumpscare and some humor. One of M. Night Shyamalan’s lesser-known films, “Signs,” starring Mel Gibson, harnesses the best things about all three genres the director explores to create a memorable, emotional and slightly existentialist piece of art.
Leviathan Wakes
Blending mystery, science fiction and disease, “Leviathan Wakes,” part of The Expanse series, is a lengthy but worthwhile read. With beautiful characters and worldbuilding, “Leviathan Wakes” stays interesting for all of its 600 pages and is well worth picking up. Not up for the lengthy read? Try “The Expanse” TV show on Amazon Prime.
Spaceballs, Galaxy Quest
If you think this whole eclipse thing is too serious, watch “Spaceballs” or “Galaxy Quest.” Both spoofs of well-known science fiction classics (“Star Wars” and “Star Trek” respectively,) these two films are entirely silly and may help you escape the sheer amount of work your brain has put into understanding how the moon could possibly block the sun.
Dune
With the second movie being released recently, “Dune” is receiving a lot of attention right now. Both movies are well worth the watch, with great performances and beautiful fight choreography. Enjoy the movie in theaters for the most immersive audio-visual experience. Though I am still reading the book, I am confident that it is a wonderful recommendation as well.
Image by Mackenzie Shields
