Cosmic Realms: Top Sci-Fi Films and the Rise of Cyberpunk Reality

Cyberpunk is a type of science fiction that focuses on dystopian futures coupled with technological advancements particularly in computers and/or AI. It occurs to me that we are now living in an age where these formerly hypothetical constructs are happening now. The repercussions of toxic algorithms in social media, the reconfiguration of society due to the internet, and the rise of AI are shifting culture in dramatic ways that for many may feel disorientating.

The psychological impacts of these advancements are profound. The constant connectivity and information overload can lead to increased stress, anxiety, and a sense of being overwhelmed. Social media often fosters feelings of inadequacy, isolation, and depression, as individuals compare their lives to the curated, often unrealistic portrayals they see online. The rise of AI and automation also raises concerns about the possible spread of misinformation, overreliance on technology, and lack of critical thinking skills, as well as job security for certain industries, contributing to anxiety about the future and one’s place in an increasingly automated world. This isn't even touching on the making of "bots" and fake news which corrupts faith in any objective reality.

Cyberpunk shines brightly in the world of anime and manga, with legendary titles like Akira, Ghost in the Shell, and Cowboy Bebop leading the charge. I just recently watched "Alita: Battle Angel" which fits in the genre nicely. Even if "regular life" continues to evolve into a cyberpunk genre, I am sure we will come up with new ways to imagine this fascinating subcategory of science fiction.

I have always loved the science fiction genre, both in books and movies. I was wondering if someone asked me to name my top 10 favorite sci-fi movies, how I would answer. My list is biased towards 80s and 90s films since that was the era I grew up in as a child/teen. I created a separate list for newer sci-fi. Some of these may not be suitable for younger viewers. Here they are in no particular order:

1. Alien

2. Close Encounters of the Third Kind

3. The Fly

4. 12 Monkeys

5. Minority Report

6. Invasion of the Body Snatchers

7. The Matrix

8. The Thing

9. Dark City

10. Screamers

2000s+

1. Ex Machina

2. Ready Player One

3. Dune

4. Moon

5. Looper

What are some of your favorite sci-fi movies or books? How might the cyberpunk genre continue to evolve?