Best Sci-Fi Movies on Disney+ to Watch Right Now

Disney+ has some of the greatest sci-fi movies ever made, or at least some of the most popular. With a selection spanning generations, the movies on Disney+ include everything from films that came out this year to old classics from your childhood. If you look, the streaming site is filled with treasures that you might not have expected to find.

Of course, Disney+ has the entire collection of Marvel and Star Wars movies, and that alone should make your trip into hyperspace worthwhile. But Disney+ will have every part of the Avatar epic as it comes out too. There are throwbacks like Flubber and Treasure Planet, retro cult classics like Tron, and of course, all your children’s favorites like Wall-E and Big Hero 6. Disney+ is the place to go for all your science fiction needs.

29 Freaky Friday (2003)

Annabel and her mother, Ellen, live a calm but rather unsatisfying life, even if the patriarch of the family is no longer with them. But one thing’s for sure, neither of the women understands the other’s life. After the pair simultaneously wish for a different life, they find themselves in reversed positions, gaining the opportunity to learn that maybe they should just be happy with what they’ve got.

An Iconic Teen Comedy

Freaky Friday is a breezy, lighthearted film that would be able to coast on Jamie Lee Curtis and Lindsay Lohan’s chemistry alone. But, fortunately, there’s so much more, like an accessible tone and compelling script loaded with organic dialogue. It was a hit among critics, earning an impressive 88% score on Rotten Tomatoes, much higher than many of its teen comedy peers.

28 The Rocketeer (1991)

A period science-fiction film with a superhero theme, The Rocketeer follows an arrogant pilot named Clifford Secord in 1938. Smitten with an actress, he finds a rocket pack in a plane and straps it on. After donning a helmet as well, he uses it to become a flashy hero. However, the Nazis soon get wind of the tech he’s using and seek to get their hands on it to turn it into a weapon.

A Charming Old-School Superhero Flick

The film has a great cast that includes Billy Campbell as Clifford, as well as Jennifer Connelly and Alan Arkin. It’s a great throwback to pulp heroes that were popular in the era it was set in. The film has also developed a cult following and also spawned a TV series that debuted on Disney Kids in 2019 and followed the adventures of Kit Secord, the great-granddaughter of Clifford, with Billy Campbell providing the voice for her father in it. An enjoyable watch, it makes for a nice change of pace from the usual Marvel and DC movies that dominate the genre.

27 Fantastic Four (2005)

If there’s an entry in the early aughts’ series of Marvel films that’s underrated, it’s Tim Story’s Fantastic Four. The story follows Marvel’s first family as they find themselves exposed to cosmic energy in space only to return to Earth with powers. Too bad Victor von Doom did, too.

Not Perfect, But Still Great Fun

Sure, there were still some kinks in the superhero movie machinery that needed working out when Fantastic Four hit theaters. But, there’s more that works than doesn’t. For one, the tone is suitably family-friendly, but not specifically tailored to one demo (which can’t be said of the PG-rated sequel Fantastic Four: Rise of the Silver Surfer). Two, Chris Evans and Michael Chiklis are perfectly cast in their roles as the Human Torch and the Thing.

26 Honey, I Shrunk the Kids (1989)

Now a classic film, Honey, I Shrunk the Kids is a comedy-sci-fi from Disney that became a smash hit back in 1989. It featured Wayne Szalinski (Rick Moranis) as a quirky kind of mad scientist inventor who’s working on a ray gun capable of shrinking or growing objects. However, a comedy of errors leads to his kids and the neighbors’ kids mistakenly activating the device in the attic and shrinking themselves with it.

Sci-Fi That Works for the Whole Family

For its time, the special effects made the film an enjoyable novelty. However, as fun and cool as those aspects are, it’s backed up by a wholesome and hearty story, well-drawn characters, and plenty of great themes too. A massive success, the film led to a sequel, having its own attraction at Disney parks, a TV series, and a possible reboot in the works.

25 Iron Man (2008)

Jon Favreau’s Iron Man didn’t just kick off the MCU, it revolutionized the film industry. The narrative follows arrogant billionaire and genius Tony Stark as he’s kidnapped after a weapons demonstration. Held captive and ordered to build a missile, Stark decides to construct something else. Something a little more personal.

The Origin of the MCU

Iron Man is one of those movies that most people have seen already. But it’s just as effective on a seventh viewing as it is on the first. With perfect casting and non-stop thrills, it’s one of the safest bets Disney+ has for a crowd-pleasing movie night. There’s a reason this movie is what kicked off the phenomenon that is the MCU, it’s a perfectly executed superhero vehicle.

24 Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny (2023)

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The latest installment of the legendary franchise, Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny, brought Harrison Ford’s iconic character out of retirement for one last harrowing adventure. This time, he finds himself seeking to secure a supposedly mythical dial that can change the course of history.

A Fitting End for Everyone’s Favorite Archaeologist

While the film struggled commercially, it featured all the ingredients of a classic Indiana Jones film. With great new characters, great directing from James Mangold, and cinematography that made for a rich experience at times, the film was very enjoyable. It also provided a much-needed, but still very sad conclusion to Dr. Jones’ story arc. It’s clear that Ford’s advanced age makes it unlikely that he’ll be able to keep up the swashbuckling heroics in further films without them landing more like parodies rather than fresh installments of one of the world’s most beloved franchises.

23 Captain America: The First Avenger (2011)

Another MCU installment, Captain America: The First Avenger, is only the fifth movie in the series. It introduces audiences to Chris Evans’ now iconic take on the title character. As he’s starting out, Steve Rogers goes from scrawny kid to super-soldier, and it’s good timing because a red-skulled Nazi sympathizer has his sights on world domination.

A More Emotional MCU Installment

As it’s progressed, the MCU has offered audiences a few period pieces, as it were (e.g. Captain Marvel‘s ’90s setting). The best of the bunch is Joe Johnston’s Captain America: The First Avenger, which is also many fans’ pick for the best MCU film as a whole. It’s one of the saga’s most heartfelt adventures, and the change in its setting and tone from the few installments that preceded it and the many that would follow makes it all the more special as time goes on.

22 Avengers: Infinity War (2018)

The culmination of the Infinity Saga, Avengers: Infinity War, is about as big as the MCU can get. The story follows the mad titan Thanos as he descends upon Earth in hopes of securing the final Infinity Stones. Why? So he can wipe out half the life in the universe.

A Charming and Emotional Finale

The Thanos snap instantly became one of cinema’s most iconic scenes ever. But that’s not the only part of Avengers: Infinity War that works like a charm. It’s hard to imagine an MCU film being any more bombastic and exciting, though Avengers: Endgame came close. The Avengers movies are so wonderful because they bring together everyone’s favorite characters, creating chalk-and-cheese combinations that somehow work.

21 Atlantis: The Lost Empire (2001)

Atlantis: The Lost Empire, a beloved early 2000s animated film, is a true visual masterpiece from Walt Disney Animation. The story follows the journey of Milo Thatch, voiced by the talented Michael J. Fox, a linguist recruited for an expedition to the Earth’s core in search of the fabled city of Atlantis.

Beautifully Crafted and Well Paced

This Disney classic is more than just an adventure; it’s a technological marvel. The attention to detail and creative prowess of the filmmakers are evident throughout the movie. From the awe-inspiring architecture of Atlantis to the intricate depiction of its advanced civilization, every frame is a work of art. Atlantic: The Lost Empire seamlessly blends action, adventure, and sci-fi elements, immersing the audience in a world where ancient legends collide with cutting-edge technology.

20 Free Guy (2021)

Imagine one day, an ordinary non-playable character (NPC) in a sprawling video game suddenly waking up with thoughts and free will. Well, meet Guy (played by Ryan Reynolds), a once monotonous bank teller who believed his life lacked purpose, unaware that he’s a completely computer-generated character inhabiting a video game’s virtual realm. Now, he must help his world from collapsing with the help of the game’s original coders.

A Wacky Premise With Heart

Free Guy takes this whimsical premise and runs with it, delivering a comedic take on self-discovery and embracing free will within a digital world. It’s a wild ride as Guy transforms from a background character into a dynamic force, challenging the rules of his video game existence. With a mix of humor and heart, the film explores the collision of reality and gaming, offering a fresh perspective on the genre.

19 Meet the Robinsons (2007)

Time travel can be a convoluted concept for adults, but in the imaginative mind of a child, it all clicks into place. This is precisely the case for young orphan Lewis, who is thrust into a mind-bending journey when his school science project is pilfered by the villainous Bowler Hat Guy. As he embarks on a quest to retrieve his invention, Lewis stumbles upon the possibility of having a loving family of his own in the future.

A Children’s Movie that Doesn’t Underestimate its Audience

Meet the Robinsons is a charming exploration of the boundless creativity and resilience of youth. Through its delightful time-traveling escapades, the movie reminds everyone that the future holds both mystery and the potential for newfound connections. Lewis’s expedition is a heartening reminder that family can be found in unexpected places and the film beautifully portrays the importance of never giving up.

18 A Wrinkle in Time (2018)

Directed by Ava DuVernay and adapted from Madeliene L’Engle’s beloved novel, A Wrinkle in Time follows Meg Murry as she traverses through time and space to rescue her missing father with the help of celestial guides. The adventure movie boasts a star-studded cast that includes the magnificent Oprah Winfrey, Reese Witherspoon, Mindy Kaling, Storm Reid, and more.

Beautiful in Its Visuals and Its Emotion

This visually stunning and emotionally resonant film explores themes of love and the power of belief. A Wrinkle in Time‘s ability to transport the audiences to otherworldly realms while conveying profound messages is exceptional. With its breathtaking visuals, phenomenal cast, and narrative that transcends traditional sci-fi tropes, it’s a cinematic experience that both young and adult viewers can appreciate.

17 Lightyear (2022)

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The story of Lightyear follows the fearless Buzz Lightyear as he embarks on a daring mission to find his way back to Earth. A following mishap leaves him stranded on an alien planet with a ship filled with cryogenically-frozen crew members. Here, Chris Evans takes on the mantle of voicing Buzz from the original voice actor, Tim Allen.

A Well-Deserved Solo Story for Buzz

In 2022, Pixar took an unexpected turn by crafting a captivating sci-fi film centered on none other than Buzz Lightyear, the iconic toy from Toy Story. Surprisingly, this animated sci-fi exploration proved to be a delightful surprise. What sets the animated adventure apart is its ability to cater to audiences of all ages. It strikes a perfect balance, delivering an engaging sci-fi narrative while maintaining the family-friendly charm that Pixar is known for. Even youngsters can find enjoyment in this imaginative space odyssey.

16 The Star Wars Franchise (1977-Present)

The Star Wars Franchise is an American space opera created by George Lucas. With the three main trilogies and two side-story films, there are 11 Star Wars movies in total. It depicts the story of characters that lived in a far galaxy, across multiple timelines, where humans and bots live in harmony. It also features The legend of Luke Skywalker, which carries on in both the past and future as the Sith and the Jedi are locked in continuous combat.

Legendary for Good Reason

Whether you’ve been a fan since the ’70s or are just looking to enjoy some of the newer movies, Disney+ has everything that ever was and is Star Wars. It all might be the same story, but each trilogy has its flavor and marks a different era in Star Wars history. George Lucas was influenced by old spaghetti westerns and Akira Kurosawa’s vast catalog of samurai movies. Put those two together, and you get a gunslinging, sword-fighting, sci-fi adventure taking place on the edges of the galaxy.

15 Avatar (2009)

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Avatar centers around the delicate relationship between the people of Pandora, called the Na’vi, and humans. It all starts when humans discover a new planet and attempt to make it their new habitat. However, it is already occupied by the Na’vi and thus, it starts a battle for ownership. Jake Sully is a paralyzed ex-marine who is tasked to explore the planet in question. During his mission, he falls in love with a Na’vi woman. Now, he must work out a way to create a peace treaty between the two species.

In a League of Its Own

Some of James Cameron’s best movies, Avatar and Avatar: The Way of Water are both available on Disney+. Cameron has always had a reputation for creating massive undertakings that span the land and sea. The Avatar epic is as much of a science fiction story in real life as it is on-screen. Cameron himself had to wait ten years for the technology to catch up with his vision of computer-generated actors in leading roles. Along with descending seven miles into the Mariana Trench, two completely new camera technologies were invented just to film his movie.

14 Wall-E (2008)

Wall-E narrates the story of a lonely waste allocation robot that is left behind on Earth. When the planet gathers enough garbage to make it uninhabitable, humans seize the opportunity to leave the planet on a forever drifting space cruise. Back on Earth, Wall-E spends his days collecting garbage and searching for possible life forms. One day, he is visited by EVE, a sleek and high-tech robot tasked with a mission to find life forms on Earth. Not wanting to be left behind, Wall-E gets on EVE’s shuttle and follows her on a galactic adventure.

One of Pixar’s Finest Achievements

This classic Pixar movie won an Oscar that year for Best Animated Feature Film and its accolades have only gotten greater as time has gone on. In 2021, Wall-E became the second Pixar film (after Toy Story) to be selected for preservation by the Library of Congress. A year later, it was added to the Criterion Collection. So one day, when the Earth is covered in garbage, and we’ve retreated into space, this film may still be out there, hidden deep in a government vault along with Citizen Kane and The Breakfast Club.

13 Big Hero 6 (2014)

In Big Hero 6, Disney takes you into the futuristic, American-Asian city of San Fransokyo, where the young Hiro constructs tiny robots to compete in back alley robot fights. Despite his obvious talent for robotics, Hiro refuses to follow in his older brother’s footsteps and attends college to use his gifts ethically. After a horrible accident claims his brother’s life, Hiro is left only with the huggable healthcare robot his brother created, and a small clue that the accident might not have been so accidental.

Thematically Rich and Emotionally Resonant

This charming, Oscar-winning film takes place at the intersection of cyberpunk, superheroes, and family fun. It’s a heartwarming story that will have you sobbing and cheering. Big Hero 6 is vastly different from the comic, but you can still see an old man in a photo that looks suspiciously like Stan Lee. The father of Marvel even makes an honest cameo in the post-credits scene and reveals himself to be a superhero. So you could technically make the argument that Big Hero 6 is in the MCU — but it’s a stretch.

12 Flubber (1997)

Robin Williams plays Dr. Philip Brainard, in Flubber, an absent-minded professor who has already missed his wedding – twice. But little does she know he’s about to discover just what he needs to save the college and win her love back. To succeed in his plan, Professor Brainard creates a type of flying rubber (Flubber) that squishes and moves with incredible flexibility and seems to have a mind of its own. He uses the bouncing substance to give Medfield an all-star basketball team. But Brainard’s longtime rival is looking to steal this amazing discovery for himself.

A Delightful Robin Williams Comedy

Flubber was one of Robin Williams’ classic comedies and stood out as one of the most loved family films of the ’90s. Will Professor Brainard be able to fend off his greedy competitor, save Medfield College, and win his fiancée back all before the end of the semester? This Robin Williams movie is fun for the whole family and full of silly green Flubber who knows how to party all night long.

11 Lilo & Stitch (2002)

Lilo & Stitch tells the story of a young girl, her big sister, and a small, blue creature named Stitch. After her parents pass away, Nani is left to care for her little sister, Lilo. In order to cheer her up and give her a companion, Nani agrees to let Lilo have a pet. Unknown to Lilo and her sister, her new pet Stitch is actually the galaxy’s most wanted experiment. While he is aggressive at first, Lilo teaches him warmth and the meaning of family, something Stitch has never known before. Now, they must team up together to defeat all the aliens who are coming to take him.

Still One of Disney’s Best

This heartwarming tale is easily one of the most delightful children’s movies ever made and remains one of the pillars of the Disney canon to this day. Now Disney+ has all kinds of Lilo & Stitch content. When the developers were first animating Lilo & Stitch, they went to Hawaii to research the location. Their tour guide led them around the island, and as he did so, the writers and animators seemed to realize that he knew just about everyone. The tour guide explained that all these people were his ohana and that one didn’t have to be blood-related to be family. The concept had been completely foreign to the filmmakers, but after this tour, it became the foundation of the movie.

10 Treasure Planet (2002)

Based on the novel Treasure Island by Robert Louis Stevenson, Treasure Planet finds Jim Hawkins living and working with his mother in a small inn. He spends his time getting into trouble and running off on his solar sailor. When a spaceship crashes near the inn, Jim receives a tiny sphere that contains a star map to a fabled treasure he has been reading about since he was a child. When pirates attack, the inn is destroyed and Jim and his professorial family friend hire a ship and set out on an adventure.

A Swashbuckling Delight

This animated sci-fi film impressively manages to capture the spirit of the 19th-century novel it’s based on. Although Mr. Stevenson didn’t include any spaceships, aliens, or star maps, he did tell a beautiful story about a boy who sets off on an adventure to find incredible treasure. In both stories, that treasure is a metaphor for maturity, but the very underrated Treasure Planet is perhaps more about a boy searching for his father.