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6 underrated sci-fi movies you need to watch on HBO Max ASAP

“The sleeper must awaken.”

Along with massive blockbusters like Zack Snyder’s Justice League, HBO Max is home to plenty of sci-fi movies that fly under the radar.

Already done with the Snyder Cut? If you’re looking for something off the beaten path, here are the six most underrated sci-fi movies on HBO Max.

6. Dune (1984)

With another take on Dune on the horizon, it’s worth revisiting David Lynch’s infamous flop. You won’t find a hidden masterpiece, but the spectacle here is hard to match.

5. Rodan (1956)

Godzilla may be the kaiju that stole audiences’ hearts, but his cousin Rodan has plenty of charm as well, especially for fans of low-budget, old-school special effects.

4. Code 46 (2003)

In the future, genetic engineering can enhance people’s abilities but strict laws rule every aspect of life, from travel to love. Against that backdrop, Code 46 tells a surprising love story in the guise of a dystopian thriller.

3. Scanners (1981)

Slow-paced but shocking, Scanners follows a group of weaponized psychics with literally mind-blowing powers. As with any David Cronenberg movie, it’s not for the squeamish.

2. The Girl With All the Gifts (2017)

After a fungus turns most humans into zombies (à la The Last of Us), one young girl immune to infection may be humanity’s last hope. It sounds like typical zombie fare, but this movie is far more thoughtful and original than most.

1. Fantastic Planet (1973)

This unforgettable cult classic chronicles a rebellion of tiny humanoids against their giant blue oppressors with psychedelic animation and music.

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