Cillian Murphy Names the Only Two Sci-Fi Films He Calls “True Masterpieces” and Why They Still Define the Genre

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Cillian Murphy recently discussed his favorite science fiction movies, naming two films he considers particularly impressive. Both are critically acclaimed and have had a significant impact on filmmaking.

Murphy thought about how science fiction first captured his imagination through things like movies and TV. Growing up in the late 1970s, like a lot of kids his age, he was fascinated by Star Wars and its exciting adventures in space. While he enjoyed it, it didn’t become a lifelong passion.

In a recent interview with Rotten Tomatoes, he explained how he views science fiction as having distinct approaches. He noted, “It’s hard to say what makes someone a true sci-fi fan. I loved Star Wars as a kid, but it seems like there’s a split between the more fantastical and the more scientifically grounded side of the genre. Later on, I discovered films like Solaris and 2001, which really stood out to me.”

The two films he mentioned are considered landmarks in film history. One of them, Solaris, directed by Andrei Tarkovsky, is famous for its deliberate pace, its exploration of deep emotions, and its focus on themes like memory and loss, rather than relying on fast-paced action.

When Solaris was first released, people had a varied response to its slow pace and focus on ideas. While some viewers found it confusing, critics appreciated its artistic goals and ambition. Over the years, the film has become highly regarded and is now celebrated as a landmark example of intelligent, artful science fiction. It’s frequently listed by film experts as one of the most significant sci-fi movies ever created.

Another movie Murphy mentioned was Stanley Kubrick’s 2001: A Space Odyssey. Honestly, it’s considered one of the most important and groundbreaking films ever made – a total classic!

When the film was first released, reactions were mixed. Some critics found its lack of dialogue and unusual story confusing. But over time, it gained recognition for its groundbreaking visuals, authentic portrayal of space travel, and thought-provoking exploration of artificial intelligence and what it means to be human. Now, it’s considered a classic and is frequently included on lists of the best films of all time, and is often the subject of academic study.

According to Murphy, science fiction generally falls into two main types. Some stories prioritize fun and visual excitement, while others delve into more complex scientific or philosophical themes. He sees Star Wars as an example of the more commercially-focused, fantastical side, and Solaris and 2001: A Space Odyssey as examples of the more thoughtful, artistic side of the genre.

He doesn’t consider himself a huge sci-fi enthusiast, but he acknowledges that some films have been incredibly important in defining the genre.

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2026-03-22 17:24