The 1960s was a unique decade, full of science fiction creativity and experimentation. With adaptations of classic novels and original visionary stories, science fiction films during this decade provided fans with much memorable and thought-provoking entertainment.
Special effects were on the rise, and many of the stories dealt with themes such as technology, space exploration, alien invasions and encounters, and the threat of nuclear war. The public was charmed by now classics such as The day the earth stood still, Planet of the ApesAnd 2001: A space odyssey, but plenty of lesser-known gems from the decade deserve more attention. Here are some of the most underrated sci-fi movies of the ’60s, ranked.
10 Fantastic Trip (1966)
Although one of the better-known sci-fi classics of the 1960s, Fantastic Trip is still greatly underestimated. Directed by Richard Fleischer and starring Stephen Boyd, Raquel Welch and Edmond O’Brien, the film follows a team of scientists who are reduced to microscopic proportions and injected into a scientist’s body to find the blood clot and save his life. However, their mission is complicated by the presence of foreign agents and the short one-hour time limit.
With impressive special effects and an exciting story, Fantastic Trip is a must-see for any sci-fi fan. The film was hugely successful, winning two Academy Awards for Best Art Direction – Color and Best Special Effects at the 1966 ceremony. Despite this success, the film continues to be overlooked by many, which is a shame considering its forward-thinking story and impressive visuals, not to mention Donald Pleasence’s great turn for his James Bond And Halloween to dawn.
9 Stranded (1969)
The 1969 John Sturges film stranded stars Gregory Peck, Richard Crenna and David Janssen in an exciting story about NASA astronauts sent to space for a months-long research mission. The slowly building drama builds as the men deal with a failing engine, dwindling oxygen supplies and an imminent return to Earth. The numbingly suspenseful scenes of the astronauts trying to survive in space, combined with the lack of a score, make stranded a truly gripping experience.
The film was a critical success, earning an Academy Award for Best Effects, Special Visual Effects at the next year’s Oscars. One of the unique and all-encompassing elements of this film is the ambient soundtrack used to recreate the environment of being in space. It may be a slow build that seems a bit flat at first glance, but stranded is a classic of its time and deserves more love than it gets.
8 The Computer Wore Tennis Shoes (1969)
Walt Disney’s contributions to the 1960s science fiction genre often go unnoticed, but the 1969s The computer was wearing tennis shoes is a charming and entertaining film. Starring Kurt Russell as Dexter Riley, an accident-prone university student who is electrocuted while repairing a computer. This gives him the intelligence and memory of a computer, forcing him to use his newfound smarts to help stop a villainous businessman. It’s a light-hearted comedy and an impressive showcase of Disney’s capabilities beyond traditional animation.
The computer was wearing tennis shoes is an excellent example of the family-friendly sci-fi films of the time. While it may not be as dark and thought-provoking as other movies on the list, it’s worth checking out for its unique blend of comedy and sci-fi. Kurt Russell’s performance as the bumbling Dexter Riley is a highlight and helps make the film an enjoyable experience for viewers of all ages.
7 This Is Not a Test (1962)
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This is not a test is an underrated Cold War science fiction film released in 1962. It’s one of the lesser-known movies of the decade, but the gripping story and character clashes make it worth a watch. The film follows a small-town sheriff who is forced to protect the town’s residents from an imminent nuclear attack. He creates a roadblock to stop travelers, and the group takes refuge in a truck, hoping to survive the fallout.
The film is a robust exploration of the fear and paranoia of the time, as well as a commentary on the human experience of conflict in moments of crisis. With its claustrophobic atmosphere and stark cinematography, This is not a test is one of the most powerful sci-fi films of its time. It may not be as popular as others from the decade, but it’s worth seeing for its story and strong performances.
6 Destination Inner Space (1966)
Destination Inner Space is an underrated sci-fi thriller film released in 1966. The film observes the crew of a Topside Sealab, a marine research station on the ocean floor. A strange, unidentified object has been spotted in the area and the crew must investigate. Once the futuristic, cylindrical saucer is aboard the Sealab, they’re dealing with more than just a mysterious object. This creature feature follows the crew as they fight for their lives against the alien threats.
The low-budget effects and production design may not be as flashy as some of the other films, but still Destination Inner Space is still a fascinating watch. The mix of sound and special effects are both effective, and the monster design is still remarkable. It’s a great example of mid-century sci-fi, and its unique plot makes it an enjoyable movie for any sci-fi fan.
5 Panic in Year Zero! (1962)
Panic in Year Zero! is a 1962 science fiction film starring Ray Milland as Harry Baldwin, a father trying to protect his family in the aftermath of a nuclear attack on Los Angeles. With law and order no longer in effect, the Baldwins must fight to survive as they journey through the dangerous post-apocalyptic wasteland. The story touches on themes of morality and ethics, but it is also a thrilling action film. The family meets different types of survivors, from the desperate to those willing to use violence to get what they want.
The movie is a classic example of the nuclear disaster subgenre, and it’s still a fun watch. The combination of exciting action scenes and moral dilemmas makes Panic in Year Zero! an essential part of the science fiction film. You can also appreciate Les Baxter’s score, which helps to create an atmosphere of dread that lingers throughout.
4 Quatermass and the Well (1967)
Quatermass and the well is a 1967 classic British science fiction film based on the BBC television series of the same name. It follows Bernard Quatermass, a scientist investigating a strange object discovered at an underground construction site. It turns out to be a human skeleton and a Mars spacecraft buried deep below the surface. Further investigation reveals its mysterious power and raises more questions about where humanity came from.
The film is a gripping, suspenseful thriller that has captured the imagination of viewers long after its release, and it is said to have influenced Alien. With its dark setting and clever dialogue, the story keeps viewers on the wrong foot and is one of the few films that really creates an atmosphere of fear. It is one of the most overlooked Hammer Horror movies, despite its compelling storyline and technical achievements.
3 The Day of the Triffids (1963)
The Day of the Triffids is another British science fiction film based on the novel by John Wyndham. It follows Bill Masen, a biologist who wakes up after an accident to discover that a meteor shower has blinded most of the population. He soon realizes they are being attacked by man-eating plants known as Triffids. Bill and the other survivors seek safety in a chaotic, post-apocalyptic world.
While some may overlook this movie due to the weaknesses in the script and production design, the central concept remains quite memorable. The Day of the Triffids is a eerily effective horror movie, and its simple yet terrifying premise has made it a true classic. It’s a fun watch for those who appreciate B movies and are looking for classic sci-fi thrills.
2 The Carnivores (1964)
The carnivores is a fun 1964 B movie starring Martin Kosleck and directed by Jack Curtis. It follows an actress, her assistant and an airplane pilot who become stranded on an island when they are caught in a storm during their flight. They meet a scientist who lives on the island, but his motives are suspicious. It soon becomes apparent that the island is infested with carnivorous creatures, forcing them to fight for their lives as they struggle to escape.
The carnivores is a classic example of low-budget horror with campy effects. Some may think the blood is dated, but it was quite effective for its time. Looking past the dialogue and acting, it’s a thrilling film that stands out among its peers. It has the feel of a monster movie, with a touch of noir and sci-fi elements, making it a fascinating watch.
1 Journey to the Bottom of the Sea (1961)
With no shortage of talented actors and filmmakers, Journey to the bottom of the sea is a classic 1961 science fiction film. Walter Pidgeon plays Adm. Harriman Nelson, creator of a nuclear submarine called Seaview. While Nelson and the ship’s crew are in the Arctic Ocean for testing, the Van Allen radiation belt catches fire, threatening to destroy the planet with rapidly rising temperatures. Nelson and his crew are the world’s only hope, as the submarine is the only ship capable of launching a nuclear missile from the Mariana Trench.
This film has a perfect balance between slowly building tension and exciting action sequences. It has a great cast, with performances by Joan Fontaine, Barbara Eden, Peter Lorre and several others. It remains underrated for its time, but it’s a pleasant watch for those looking for a classic sci-fi adventure. Numerous movies and TV shows have been inspired by the story, including a delightful 1960s TV show Journey to the bottom of the sea historical place. With the captivating visuals during the underwater scenes and burning skies, it’s a true classic that doesn’t get the recognition it deserves.