Science fiction has long been a popular genre for filmmakers, offering viewers an escape into unknown worlds and the possibility to explore the depths of our imagination. It is no surprise that some sci-fi movies have captivated audiences so profoundly that they wished to see further exploration of the movie's worlds and characters.
This article will look at some classic science fiction movies with such detailed worlds, memorable characters, and engaging storylines they had — and in many cases still have — the potential to be turned into TV shows.
10 Blade Runner
Blade Runner is one of the most iconic science fiction movies of all time. It follows Rick Deckard (Harrison Ford), a Blade Runner tasked with hunting down escaped bioengineered "replicants" looking for ways to extend their man-made lifespans. The film has developed an immense cult following since its 1982 release, primarily due to its stunning visuals, complex themes, and thought-provoking story. If there were ever a movie that deserved to be expanded into a series, it would be Blade Runner.
The world created by the original film could easily support storylines spanning multiple episodes or seasons. There are several potential stories to explore in the highly detailed Blade Runner universe, particularly the ongoing cat-and-mouse game between Blade Runners and replicants for control over their destinies.
9 The Road
The Road is a classic science fiction movie that has captivated audiences for years. It explores themes of hope, loss, and determination in a post-apocalyptic world filled with danger. The film follows the story of an unnamed man and his son as they journey across an American landscape destroyed by nuclear war.
While The Road was acclaimed for its gripping plot and powerful performances, many viewers have longed to see it continue as an ongoing series. It provides a compelling look into life after a disaster destroys civilization as we know it. A whole series in this setting wouldn't just be about survival, but also about finding meaning in a dying world where everything humans once knew has changed.
8 Mad Max
The Mad Max series of movies began in 1979, and follows a drifter traversing a post-apocalyptic wasteland trying to survive against violent gangs and marauders. The original film has spawned four sequels, but many fans believe it would have been better served as an ongoing TV series.
The world created by Mad Max is expansive, with plenty of room for creative exploration and character development. Viewers could have followed the hero's journey across the wasteland as he meets new characters and battles old foes while learning more about himself. With every episode, Max would change and grow into something greater than what he once was — an inspiring story of redemption against a gritty backdrop.
7 Galaxy Quest
Galaxy Quest is a classic sci-fi comedy that has steadily grown in popularity since its release in 1999. The film follows the story of a group of actors who are famous for playing roles on an old sci-fi show. When aliens recruit them to help them save their planet, they must use their acting skills to pretend they know how to fight an intergalactic war.
The movie's concept could have easily been stretched out into a series; unsurprisingly, there have been rumors of a TV adaptation since the movie first came out. Viewers could follow the characters' journeys from strangers pretending to be space heroes into genuine galactic warriors. There would be plenty of storylines and exciting adventures for viewers over multiple seasons. So far, however, the TV show has yet to materialize.
6 Inception
Inception is a 2010 sci-fi movie directed by Christopher Nolan. It follows a team of corporate spies led by Dom Cobb (Leonardo DiCaprio), who use technology to enter people's dreams and extract secrets from their minds. With its complex plot and mind-bending visuals, Inception left audiences wanting more. It was a box office success and won several awards, including four Oscars.
Due to its innovative storytelling and stunning visual effects, many fans feel Inception deserves to be adapted into an extended series format. A television series could explore the characters' backstories in greater depth while expanding on the premise established in the movie. Viewers could witness even more complicated "inceptions," especially when the gang needs to descend into multiple layers of the target's subconscious to reach their goal.
5 They Live
They Live is a classic sci-fi movie directed by John Carpenter. The 1988 film follows an everyday construction worker (Roddy Piper) who discovers a pair of strange sunglasses that allow him to uncover a hidden world of aliens living among humans in disguise. After realizing the truth about reality and the nefarious plot against humanity, he fights back with help from his newfound allies.
With its unique blend of social commentary, comedy, and action sequences, They Live could have been easily adapted into an ongoing TV series. The plotline is ripe for expansion; the movie contains evil aliens hiding in plain sight and human collaborators assisting them behind the scenes. A series of one person's quest to expose the invasion would make a great TV show.
4 The Fifth Element
When The Fifth Element was released in 1997, it quickly became a cult classic with its vibrant art direction, colorful characters, and unforgettable storyline. Directed by Luc Besson, the film stars Bruce Willis as Korben Dallas, a cab driver who finds himself in the middle of an intergalactic struggle to prevent evil forces from destroying the universe. It also features memorable performances by Milla Jovovich, Gary Oldman, and Chris Tucker, along with mind-blowing special effects that hold up today.
It's no surprise that the public has long anticipated a sequel or series based on The Fifth Element. With so many exciting characters and plot points left unexplored in the original movie, there is certainly enough material for an entire series. But many people feel the biggest reason for a series is the richness of the film's world. Even a series with all new characters and stories would have worked, allowing viewers to see more from Besson's vision of New York City in 2263.
3 Ghostbusters
Ghostbusters is a classic sci-fi comedy and one of the most beloved films of the 1980s. Directed by Ivan Reitman, Ghostbusters follows four scientists who protect New York City from paranormal activity and supernatural creatures. Starring Bill Murray, Dan Aykroyd, Harold Ramis, and Ernie Hudson, this movie was an instant hit. The film spawned two sequels, a cartoon series, and a 2016 reboot starring Melissa McCarthy and Kristen Wiig.
But for many people, the best part of the movies was the chemistry between the four original Ghostbusters. Seeing more of the original cast as a TV series would undoubtedly have been a massive hit. Sadly, Harold Ramis passed away in 2014, so fans can only dream of a TV series featuring the full original cast.
2 Cloud Atlas
Cloud Atlas, released in 2012, is a science fiction movie directed by the Wachowskis and Tom Tykwer. It follows the story of six characters who exist at different points in time from 1849 to 2144. The film stars Tom Hanks, Halle Berry, and Hugh Grant, and explores how our actions and decisions ripple through time.
The incredible scope of Cloud Atlas makes it an ideal candidate for a series adaptation. With the potential to write a series featuring multiple characters from vastly different eras and intertwining storylines that span centuries, there's plenty of material.
1 Nausicaa of the Valley of the Wind
Nausicaa of the Valley of the Wind, released in 1984 and directed by Hayao Miyazaki, is a classic anime film that would work brilliantly as a TV series. All the elements for a great anime series are there: a brave protagonist trying to save the planet while trapped in the middle of two warring factions.
This post-apocalyptic fantasy follows Nausicaa, a young princess who embarks on a journey to protect her people and the environment from an impending war. Throughout her journey, she discovers secrets of nature while facing forces beyond her control.
The movie is full of action, adventure, and heartwarming lessons about friendship and standing up for what one believes in. It also delves into themes of industrial pollution and its impact on our planet's future. With such exciting yet deep plot lines, Nausicaa Of The Valley Of The Wind would have made an excellent series.