The 1920s, an era characterized by rapid technological advancements and shifting cultural landscapes, saw the birth of various sci-fi films that dared to imagine the impossible. This list celebrates the pioneering spirit of filmmakers who ventured beyond the bounds of reality, creating visionary masterpieces that laid the groundwork for all science fiction cinema to follow. From the depths of space to the intricacies of the human mind, these films explore a spectrum of futuristic fantasies and moral issues. Join us as we journey through a time when the big screen became a portal to other worlds, and storytelling was limited only by imagination. Without further ado, let’s take a look at the ten best sci-fi films of the 1920s.
10. The Monster – Roland West (1925)
“The Monster”, a science fiction horror film directed by Roland West, tells the tale of Dr. Ziska, an eccentric and somewhat deranged scientist who assumes control over an insane asylum to use as his personal laboratory. In this secluded and eerie setting, Dr. Ziska begins working on bizarre and ethically questionable experiments, mostly focused on his groundbreaking but disturbing project: the transplantation of a person’s soul from one body to another. The narrative intensifies as two young men, the determined detective Johnny Goodlittle and his loyal, slightly naive friend Luke Watson, accidentally uncover the chilling reality of Dr. Ziska’s sinister operations.
Under Roland West’s direction, the film creates a chilling and suspenseful atmosphere, combining elements of science fiction with the dark themes of horror. “The Monster” is known for its pioneering use of special effects and innovative set design, which set a new benchmark for cinematic creativity during its time. West’s skill in creating suspense throughout the film ensures that viewers remain captivated and perched on the edge of their seats. The performances are especially notable, with Charles Sellon’s portrayal of Dr. Ziska offering a compelling and unsettling character study. “The Monster” stands as a significant and influential work within the science fiction and horror genres, thanks to its avant-garde exploration of body and soul manipulation.
9. The Head of Janus – F. W. Murnau (1920)
“The Head of Janus,” a groundbreaking silent science fiction film directed by F. W. Murnau delves into the unsettling realm of dual personalities with a dark and introspective narrative. Central to the plot is Dr. Warren, a highly respected and brilliant scientist who, in his pursuit of understanding the human psyche, creates a potion designed to isolate the good and evil aspects of a person’s personality. However, the experiment veers into the realm of the nightmarish when Dr. Warren, in a moment of reckless curiosity, decides to test the potion on himself. This act results in the emergence of his malevolent alter ego, Mr. O’Connor, setting off a chain of events that challenge and scrutinize the very foundations of human morality.
F. W. Murnau’s directorial style in “The Head of Janus” stands as a remarkable example of his innovative and forward-thinking approach to filmmaking. The movie serves as a precursor to the modern psychological thriller, exploring the theme of dual personalities with a sophistication and intensity that was rare for films of the time. The cinematography is particularly striking, using lighting and shadow to create an atmosphere brimming with dread. Murnau’s talent for conveying complex emotional states, despite the absence of spoken dialogue, is proof of his mastery in visual storytelling, making this one of the best sci-fi films of the 1920s.
8. The Mysterious Island – Lucien Hubbard, Benjamin Christensen, Maurice Tourneur (1929)
“The Mysterious Island”, directed by Lucien Hubbard, Benjamin Christensen, and Maurice Tourneur, portrays an a narrative set on an uncharted and enigmatic island. This film follows the journey of a diverse group of castaways, who, in a desperate attempt to escape from the confines of a Civil War prison camp, find themselves adrift in a hot air balloon. Their unexpected landing on the island marks the beginning of a series of extraordinary encounters with unexplained phenomena and advanced, futuristic technology, suggesting the influence of a mysterious, unseen presence. As the plot progresses, the group embarks on an exploration of this bizarre new world, revealing an array of scientific marvels and anomalies that far surpass the technological advancements of their own era.
This film is a unique combination of adventure and science fiction, set apart by its innovative storytelling and groundbreaking visual effects that were considered far ahead of their time. The directors, utilizing the most advanced filmmaking techniques available in the 1920s, create an immersive world that captivates and engages the audience from start to finish. Additionally, “The Mysterious Island” is acclaimed for its thoughtful exploration of themes such as the resilience of human ingenuity and the relentless struggle for survival within an unfamiliar environment. The performances delivered by the cast members fill the narrative with a sense of depth and realism, further solidifying “The Mysterious Island” as a significant contribution to the science fiction film genre.
7. Aelita: Queen of Mars – Yakov Protazanov (1924)
“Aelita: Queen of Mars”, directed by Yakov Protazanov, stands as a trailblazing work in the Soviet science fiction film genre. The narrative unfolds within the context of post-revolutionary Russia, contrasted with the fantastical realm of interplanetary travel. The story focuses on Engineer Los, a character known for his inventiveness and determination, who, fueled by a series of recurring dreams, constructs a spacecraft. His journey takes him to the distant and mysterious planet of Mars, where he encounters Aelita, the queen of the Martian civilization. Los finds himself at the heart of a developing Martian uprising, an event that is ignited by his unexpected arrival and further fueled by the underlying societal unrest simmering on the planet.
Yakov Protazanov’s “Aelita: Queen of Mars” is a landmark in early cinema, notable for its imaginative depiction of space travel and the concept of life on other planets. The film is widely acclaimed for its extraordinary set designs and costumes, which together forge a distinctive portrayal of Mars, presenting it as a world both alien and alluring. The narrative combines elements of science fiction, romantic intrigue, and political commentary, mirroring the complex and dynamic period in which it was created. The pioneering use of special effects, coupled with the film’s inventive storytelling approach, ensures its place as one of the best sci-fi films of the 1920s.
6. A Daughter of Destiny – Henrik Galeen (1928)
In Henrik Galeen’s film “A Daughter of Destiny,” the plot revolves around the life of a mysterious woman named Alraune. Her existence, a result of a controversial scientific experiment that combines human and mandrake qualities places her at the crossroads of nature and scientific manipulation. Alraune grapples with the complexities of her unique origin, which subjects her to an intense emotional journey characterized by feelings of isolation and confusion. Throughout the film, her journey becomes a quest for self-identity in a society that perceives her as a bewildering anomaly. As the story progresses, Alraune finds herself involved in complex relationships that challenge her understanding of love, trust, and the moral implications of her existence.
This film is noteworthy for its deep exploration of identity and the human condition, viewed through the lens of science fiction. Galeen’s direction gives a haunting and almost otherworldly quality to the film, drawing the audience into the heart of Alraune’s internal struggles and her confrontations with a world that fails to understand her. The film’s cinematography and visual effects, which were highly advanced for their time, play a crucial role in shaping the film’s ethereal ambiance. “A Daughter of Destiny” is acclaimed for its emotional strength and its groundbreaking narrative approach.
5. Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde – John S. Robertson (1920)
John S. Robertson’s “Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde” presents a compelling cinematic adaptation of Robert Louis Stevenson’s classic novel, transporting viewers into the heart of a profound moral dilemma. The film portrays Dr. Henry Jekyll, a scientist held in high esteem, who embarks on a journey of self-discovery after developing a potion that reveals his sinister alter ego, Mr. Edward Hyde. As the story progresses, Jekyll finds himself increasingly involved in a battle for control over his transformations, leading to a destructive impact on not only his own life but also on the lives of those around him. Set against the grim streets of Victorian London, the film captures the eternal struggle between the forces of good and evil that reside within a single individual.
John S. Robertson’s adaptation explores the theme of the duality of human nature, presenting it in a manner that is both intellectually stimulating and deeply unsettling. The scenes depicting Jekyll’s transformation into Hyde are particularly noteworthy, showcasing pioneering makeup and special effects that were groundbreaking for the time. The performance of the lead actor adds a significant layer of depth to the film, capturing the internal turmoil and psychological complexity of the characters. “Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde” influence extends far beyond its era, continuing to inspire numerous adaptations and provoke thought to this day, making it one of the best sci-fi films of the 1920s.
4. L’Inhumaine – Marcel L’Herbier (1924)
“L’Inhumaine” (The Inhuman Woman), directed by Marcel L’Herbier, stands out for its avant-garde style and captivating narrative. The story follows the life of Claire Lescot, a renowned opera singer who lives in Paris, celebrated for her mesmerizing performances and her aloof, almost icy demeanor. She becomes the object of fascination for a diverse array of admirers, including a wealthy Maharajah and a passionate young scientist named Einar Norsen. As the film unfolds, Lescot’s interactions with her admirers leads to a series of dramatic and unforeseen events, culminating in a tragic incident that involves Norsen and alters the course of the story.
Marcel L’Herbier’s “L’Inhumaine” is proof of the experimental nature of cinema of the 1920s, blending elements of science fiction with the heightened emotions of melodrama. The film’s visual style stands out due to its luxurious set designs and pioneering cinematography, which collectively create an atmosphere that is at once otherworldly and futuristic. The narrative explores many different themes, including the advancements of technology, the complexities of human emotion, and the interactions between art and the fabric of life. “L’Inhumaine” stands as a groundbreaking film, paving the way for future explorations and innovations in science fiction cinema.
3. Woman in the Moon – Fritz Lang (1929)
“Woman in the Moon”, directed by Fritz Lang, stands at the forefront of the science fiction genre with its innovative concept and narrative. The plot revolves around an ambitious lunar mission, masterminded by the far-sighted and dedicated Professor Georg Manfeldt, a scientist with visionary ideas about space. Alongside him is a compact team comprising of the resourceful engineer Wolf Helius and the talented young astronomer Friede Velten. Together, they embark on a journey to the moon, driven by the allure of discovering gold. However, as their expedition progresses, they uncover far more than lunar secrets, encountering a series of dramatic twists that bring together their personal ambitions and conflicts with the awe-inspiring realm of space exploration.
Fritz Lang’s “Woman in the Moon” is hailed for its trailblazing depiction of space travel, combining technical precision and imaginative storytelling. The film’s detailed portrayal of a rocket launch, remarkable for its era, proved so inspiring that it influenced subsequent developments in actual rocket technology. Celebrated for its elaborate set designs and pioneering special effects, the film convincingly recreates the lunar landscapes, immersing the audience in a believable depiction of the moon’s surface. Beyond its technological marvels, the film takes a look at the human aspects of space exploration, reflecting on the dreams that propel humanity in its quest to explore the unknown, making this one of the best sci-fi films of the 1920s.
2. The Crazy Ray – René Clair (1925)
René Clair’s “The Crazy Ray” offers a unique and humor-infused perspective on science fiction. Set in the bustling metropolis of Paris, the plot takes place as a mysterious ray, resulting from the experiment of an obscure scientist, inexplicably freezes the entire city, making its inhabitants completely immobile and suspended in time. In the midst of this surreal occurrence, a small group of individuals, who were underground at the precise moment of the incident, discover themselves unaffected by the ray’s strange power, allowing them the freedom to explore and roam the eerily motionless streets of Paris. Their subsequent adventures through the silent and static city form the heart of the narrative, combining elements of comedy and fantasy.
This film is acclaimed for its originality and its light-hearted approach to the science fiction genre, a striking contrast to the typically more serious and dystopian themes common in sci-fi films of the era. Clair’s direction gives a playful tone to the story, making it a refreshing and delightful cinematic experience. The cinematography and special effects are utilized to create a convincing depiction of a paralyzed Paris, a feat of early cinematic innovation that adds a layer of visual intrigue to the film. “The Crazy Ray” stands out not only as an entertaining piece of cinema but also as a thought-provoking exploration of the human condition, exploring the ways in which people adapt to unforeseen circumstances.
1. Metropolis – Fritz Lang (1927)
Fritz Lang’s “Metropolis” is an iconic and monumental achievement in the science fiction genre and a pinnacle of silent cinema. The film is set within the technologically advanced yet socially unstable metropolis of the future, where a division exists between the affluent city planners and the oppressed working class. Freder, the compassionate son of the city’s mastermind, is made aware of the grim and laborious conditions endured by the workers beneath the city’s gleaming surface. His encounter with Maria, a visionary figure revered by the workers, ignites in him a burning desire to challenge the status quo and help to bridge the grap separating the two classes.
“Metropolis” is celebrated globally for its expansive and visionary scope, complemented by stunning visual effects that were revolutionary for its era. The film’s depiction of a futuristic urban dystopia has had an influence across the worlds of cinema and literature. Lang’s filmmaking mastery is evident in the elaborate set constructions, pioneering special effects, and the compelling portrayal of a city dominated by machines, which bring to life the narrative’s universe while exploring themes of rampant industrialization and the ensuing class conflict. The story of “Metropolis” brings together themes of love, power dynamics, and the quest for redemption, ensuring its place as one of the best sci-fi films of the 1920s.
Summary
To summarise, here are the ten best sci-fi films of the 1920s:
- The Monster – Roland West (1925)
- The Head of Janus – F. W. Murnau (1920)
- The Mysterious Island – Lucien Hubbard, Benjamin Christensen, Maurice Tourneur (1929)
- Aelita: Queen of Mars – Yakov Protazanov (1924)
- A Daughter Of Destiny – Henrik Galeen (1928)
- Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde – John S. Robertson (1920)
- L’Inhumaine – Marcel L’Herbier (1924)
- Woman in the Moon – Fritz Lang (1929)
- The Crazy Ray – René Clair (1925)
- Metropolis – Fritz Lang (1927)
