The best science fiction films to test your home theater

A home theater system allows you to fully enjoy science fiction films, where visual and sound effects play a key role. With their spectacular action scenes and immersive atmospheres, these feature films are the perfect way to test the qualities of your system. Here’s a selection of the genre’s must-see movies!

Dune: Part One (2021, Denis Villeneuve)

Paul Atreides, heir to a powerful lineage, follows his father to Arrakis, a strategic desert planet for the Empire. Their family is betrayed by the Emperor and the Harkonnen, triggering a bloody war. Paul and his mother, Jessica, find refuge with the desert-dwelling Fremen.

The Harkonnen night attack on House Atreides is a benchmark scene for sound and image. Explosions light up the darkness, providing powerful contrast in Dolby Vision. The roar of the ships and the clamor of the battles also exploit the full sonic amplitude of a home theater system. Each impact and blast also puts the spatialization of the speakers to the test.

Available on DVD, Blu-ray HD and 4K Blu-ray
Image (4K Blu-ray): 16:9 format, 2.40:1 cinema format, Dolby Vision, HDR10
Audio (4K Blu-ray): English (Dolby Atmos True HD), French (Dolby Atmos True HD)
Allociné: 4/5
IMDb: 8/10

Alita: Battle Angel (2019, Robert Rodriguez)

In a cybernetic future where the elite live above a dilapidated city, a doctor discovers the amnesiac Alita, an abandoned cyborg. Bringing her back to life, he triggers confused memories and an uncanny ability to fight. Alita sets out to understand who she really is, while powerful forces seek to control her.

The fight scene in the Motorball arena, where Alita takes on formidable opponents, is visually and sonically intense. Vivid contrast, motion effects, metal noises and slow motion are an excellent way to test the image clarity, HDR rendering and sonic precision, rendering all the frenzy of the action.

Available on DVD, HD Blu-ray and 4K Blu-ray
Image (4K Blu-ray): 16:9 format, 2.39:1 cinema format, Dolby Vision, HDR10+
Audio (4K Blu-ray): English (Dolby Atmos True HD), French (DTS Digital Surround 5.1)
Allociné: 3.4/5
IMDb rating: 7.3/10

Ready Player One (2018, Steven Spielberg)

Ready Player One is set in 2045 in a world in crisis, where the population takes refuge in the OASIS, an immersive virtual universe. When its creator, James Halliday, dies, a treasure hunt is launched: whoever discovers the hidden Easter egg will inherit his fortune and control of the OASIS. Young Wade Watts, a.k.a. Parzival, embarks on the quest, battling passionate competitors and a corporation desperate to claim the prize.

To test a home theater installation, the chase scene is particularly demanding. This sequence offers an intense experience, making full use of the capabilities of the surround systems and subwoofers. The dynamic, colorful images also highlight the display quality of the screen, making this scene an excellent choice for evaluating equipment performance.

Available on DVD, HD Blu-ray and 4K Blu-ray
Image (4K Blu-ray): 16:9 format, 2.39:1 cinema format, Dolby Vision, HDR10
Audio (4K Blu-ray): English, French (Dolby Atmos True HD)
Allociné: 4/5
IMDb rating: 7.4/10

Blade Runner 2049 (2017, Denis Villeneuve)

In a world where humans and replicants live side by side, Agent K, a blade runner, tracks down old replicant models. On one mission, he discovers clues that could upset the established order and change his perception of reality. K follows a mysterious trail that leads him to Rick Deckard, a blade runner who has been missing for decades.

The scene in which K walks through Los Angeles and comes face to face with a huge advertisement hologram is a visual and sonic masterpiece. The gloomy soundtrack, accompanied by the sounds of rain and storms, the purple lighting and deep bass provide an enveloping atmosphere. It’s the ideal scene to appreciate the contrast and detail of a 4K TV or projector, and the immersive capabilities of a home theater system.

Available on DVD, HD Blu-ray and 4K Blu-ray
Image (4K Blu-ray): 16:9 format, 2.40:1 cinema format, HDR10
Audio (4K Blu-ray): English (Dolby Atmos True HD), French (DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1)
Allociné: 3.6/5
IMDb rating: 8/10

Arrival (2016, Denis Villeneuve)

Alien ships appear on Earth, and a linguist tries to establish a dialogue. Humanity is divided on how to react to this encounter. In the course of her research, she discovers a message that changes her perception of time. This movie tackles the subject of communication and mutual understanding, while highlighting the importance of language.

The first encounter with the heptapods is an ideal test for spatialized sound, with strange communication alternating between vibrations and oppressive silences. The ship’s dark interior contrasts with the bright white wall, on which the symbols appear in deep black, offering a good way to assess the brightness transitions of a screen or projector.

Available on DVD, HD Blu-ray and 4K Blu-ray
Image (4K Blu-ray): 16:9 format, 2.35:1 cinema format, HDR10
Audio (4K Blu-ray): English (DTS-HD Master Audio 7.1), French (Dolby Digital 5.1)
Allociné: 4.1/5
IMDb: 7.9/10

Chappie (2015, Neill Blomkamp)

In a city plagued by crime, a police robot is stolen and reset. Renamed “Chappie” by his new “parents”, he becomes the first robot with a conscience, capable of learning like a child. But his first steps in this world are difficult, torn between innocence and contradictory influences that sometimes push him into explosive situations.

The scene in which Chappie is confronted by a gang during a shootout is full of noise and tension. The gunfire, explosions and panic create a highly detailed acoustic environment that tests the sound spatialization of a home theater system. The soundtrack, composed by Hans Zimmer with the collaboration of Steve Mazzaro and Andrew Kawczynski, reinforces the film’s atmosphere and offers a wide variety of sounds to test your installation.

Available on DVD, HD Blu-ray and 4K Blu-ray
Image (4K Blu-ray): 16:9 format, 2.40:1 cinema format, HDR10
Audio (4K Blu-ray): English (Dolby Atmos True HD), French (Dolby Digital 5.1)
Allociné: 3.3/5
IMDb rating: 6.8/10

Guardians of the Galaxy (2014, James Gunn)

Peter Quill steals an artifact sought by the dreaded Ronan the Accuser. He joins forces with an unlikely team to prevent the destruction of the galaxy. Together, they confront Ronan and discover the hidden power of the orb. This first installment in the series perfectly captures the atmosphere and humor of the comics, offering Marvel fans a particularly faithful adaptation.

The scene of the Battle of Xandar is a reference for audio and video. The space battles offer an explosion of HDR colors and lighting effects capable of putting a TV or projector to the test. The destruction of the enemy ship also makes the subwoofer vibrate intensely.

Available on DVD, HD Blu-ray and 4K Blu-ray
Image (4K Blu-ray): 16:9 format, 2.40:1 cinema format, HDR10
Audio (4K Blu-ray): English (Dolby Atmos True HD), French (Dolby Digital Plus 7.1)
Allociné: 3.8/5
IMDb: 8/10

Edge of Tomorrow (2014, Doug Liman)

William Cage relives the same day over and over after being killed in battle. With the help of Rita Vrataski, he tries to unlock the secret of the Mimics. Each new day brings him closer to the key to stopping the alien invasion. Doug Liman’s film skillfully exploits the complexity of the time loop to captivate viewers, despite the repetitive nature of the narrative.

The beach landing scene is packed with action and sound effects. Explosions, gunfire and roaring engines put every audio channel to the test, allowing spatialization to be assessed. During these scenes, the image alternates between chaos, rapid movement and detailed shots, perfect for checking the sharpness and responsiveness of a home theater installation.

Available on DVD, HD Blu-ray and 4K Blu-ray
Image (4K Blu-ray): 16:9 format, 2.40:1 cinema format, HDR10
Audio (4K Blu-ray): English (Dolby Atmos True HD), French (Dolby Digital 5.1)
Allociné: 3.5/5
IMDb: 7.9/10

Interstellar (2014, Christopher Nolan)

As resources dwindle on Earth, a group of astronauts venture through a wormhole in search of a new planet. Cooper, a former pilot turned farmer, embarks on this mission, leaving behind his children in the hope of saving humanity. And so begins a space journey that tests their bond as a family and their own survival.

The docking sequence on a rotating space station is extraordinarily intense. The tension of the sound, the camera movements and the contrast between silence and the noise of the ship’s vibrations test the depth of the sound and the responsiveness of the drivers. All this is underlined by the Hans Zimmer soundtrack, which adds even more stress to the scene.

• Read: Top 10 Hans Zimmer soundtracks to test your audio system

Available on DVD, HD Blu-ray and 4K Blu-ray
Image (4K Blu-ray): 16:9 format, 2.40:1 cinema format, HDR10
Audio (4K Blu-ray): English (DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1), French (DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1)
Allociné: 3.8/5
IMDb rating: 8.7/10

Pacific Rim (2013, Guillermo del Toro)

Giant creatures called Kaiju emerge from the ocean, threatening humanity. In response, colossal robots called Jaegers are created to defend the cities. Raleigh Becket, a disillusioned pilot, is called back for the ultimate mission, where he must work with a new teammate to save what’s left of human civilization.

The nighttime ocean battle between a Jaeger and a Kaiju is an impressive visual and audio spectacle. The water, metallic blows and immersive impact effects are perfect for testing the spatialization of your system. Very dark, this scene also highlights the HDR capabilities of a TV or projector.

Available on DVD, HD Blu-ray and 4K Blu-ray
Image (4K Blu-ray): 16:9 format, 1.78:1 cinema format, HDR10
Audio (4K Blu-ray): English (Dolby Atmos True HD), French (DTS-HD Master Audio 7.1)
Allociné: 3.4/5
IMDb rating: 6.9/10

Oblivion (2013, Joseph Kosinski)

Jack Harper maintains drones on an Earth deserted after a war with aliens. He discovers a woman who challenges everything he knows. Little by little, he realizes that his mission hides a much darker reality. Joseph Kosinski’s visual approach is highly impressive, immersing us completely in this futuristic universe.

The drone attack on the Scavs’ base is an ideal test for sound immersion. The nocturnal silence is broken by shrill alarms and laser fire. The bass marks each explosion, and the drones zoom between the speakers. The image also highlights the contrast between darkness and the flashes of light that illuminate certain scenes.

Available on DVD, HD Blu-ray and 4K Blu-ray
Image (4K Blu-ray): 16:9 format, 2.40:1 cinema format, HDR10
Audio (4K Blu-ray): English (Dolby Atmos True HD), French (Dolby Digital 5.1)
Allociné: 2.9/5
IMDb: 7/10

Inception (2010, Christopher Nolan)

Dom Cobb is a thief who specializes in extracting ideas from the dreams of his targets. Wanted and unable to return to his children, he is offered an unusual mission: instead of stealing an idea, he must implant one in the mind of an industrial heir. To succeed, he assembles a team and plunges into a labyrinth of interlocking dreams, where the line between reality and illusion becomes increasingly blurred.

Sitting on the terrace of a café, Cobb explains to Ariane that they’re in the middle of a dream when, all around them, the environment begins to disintegrate. Silent explosions pulverize shop windows, tables and facades, hurling debris into the air as the ground shakes. The scene alternates between calm and chaos, with deep bass and pronounced sound spatialization, ideal for testing the audio dynamics of a home theater.

Available on DVD, HD Blu-ray and 4K Blu-ray
Image (4K Blu-ray): 16:9 format, 2.40:1 cinema format, HDR10
Audio (4K Blu-ray): English, French (DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1)
Allociné: 4.1/5
IMDb: 8.8/10

Transformers (2007, Michael Bay)

A young man named Sam discovers that his car is actually an alien robot come to protect Earth. Sam finds himself plunged into a conflict between the Autobots, protectors of humanity, and the Decepticons, who want to conquer the planet. With the help of the Transformers, Sam becomes an unexpected ally in this hidden war on Earth.

Sound design for the transformers was supervised by Erik Aadahl and Ethan Van der Ryn, both sound editors. Although the franchise didn’t receive all that much praise, the sounds of the Autobots and Decepticons were particularly well done. Erik Aadahl was even nominated twice for an Oscar for his work on Transformers: Dark of the Moon. Also worth noting is the character Bumblebee, who only speaks through his radio to deliver some very quotable punchlines. Despite their production flaws, the Transformers films provide a great listening experience on a home theater system.

Available on DVD, HD Blu-ray and 4K Blu-ray
Image (4K Blu-ray): 16:9 format, 2.40:1 cinema format, HDR10
Audio (4K Blu-ray): English (Dolby Atmos True HD), French (Dolby Digital 5.1)
Allociné: 2.5/5
IMDb rating: 7.1/10

The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy (2005, Garth Jennings)

Arthur Dent, an ordinary Englishman, narrowly escapes the destruction of the Earth thanks to his friend Ford Prefect, an extraterrestrial working for The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy. This book contains everything you need to know about the universe. Taken on an interstellar odyssey, he meets eccentric characters such as Zaphod Beeblebrox, president of the galaxy, and Marvin, a depressive robot. This burlesque fresco, tinged with British humor, will lead the protagonists to discover the answer to the “big question about life, the Universe and everything else”.

The opening scene, in which the Earth is destroyed by the Vogon demolition fleet, is a mixture of humor and chaos. The vibrations and explosions that shake the screen, accompanied by the cynical voice of the narrator, are perfect for testing the dynamics of a home theater system.

Available on DVD, HD Blu-ray
Image (HD Blu-ray): 16:9 format, 2.40:1 cinema format
Audio (HD Blu-ray): English (DTS Digital Surround 5.1), French (Dolby Digital 5.1)
Allociné: 3.5/5
IMDb rating: 6.7/10

Minority Report (2002, Steven Spielberg)

In 2054, crime in Washington D.C. is almost eradicated thanks to the Precrime program, which uses three precogs capable of predicting murders before they happen. John Anderton, played by Tom Cruise, head of this unit, firmly believes in this system until the day he is designated as the future murderer of a stranger. Forced to flee, he sets out to prove his innocence and discovers that the precogs are not infallible: alternative predictions, known as minority reports, could call into question the whole legitimacy of the program.

The jet-pack chase through Washington is a technical demonstration. Reactive engines and explosions fill the sound spectrum. The aerial races and characters crashing through windows test the responsiveness of the image. Smooth movement and channel separation are essential here.

Available on DVD and HD Blu-ray
Image (HD Blu-ray): 16:9 format, 2.40:1 cinema format
Audio (HD Blu-ray): English (DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1), French (DTS Digital Surround 5.1)
Allociné: 4.4/5
IMDb: 7.6/10

Star Wars: Episode I – The Phantom Menace (1999, George Lucas)

The Galactic Republic is in crisis as the Trade Federation imposes a blockade on the planet Naboo. Jedi Qui-Gon Jinn and Obi-Wan Kenobi are sent to negotiate, but discover a larger plot orchestrated by a Sith lord. Their mission takes them to Tatooine, where they meet Anakin Skywalker, a young slave with exceptional potential in the Force. Meanwhile, Queen Amidala seeks to defend her people, while the Sith threat, embodied by Darth Maul, is revealed.

In Star Wars: Episode I – The Phantom Menace, the pod races are the perfect way to put home theater to the test. The engines roar with distinct, powerful tones, demanding responsive speakers capable of reproducing every sonic variation with precision, from deep bass to the highest frequencies. The explosion of the Sebulba Pod also provides an interesting sound peak for testing the dynamics of the audio system, putting to the test the management of punchy bass and the clarity of debris effects.

Available on DVD, HD Blu-ray and 4K Blu-ray
Image (4K Blu-ray): 16:9 format, 2.35:1 cinema format, HDR10
Audio (4K Blu-ray): English (Dolby Atmos True HD), French (Dolby Digital Plus 7.1)
Allociné: 3.8/5
IMDb: 6.5/10

The Matrix (1999, Lana and Lilly Wachowski)

Thomas Anderson, a programmer known as Neo, discovers that the reality he perceives is merely a simulation controlled by intelligent machines. Recruited by Morpheus and Trinity, he learns that humanity is actually enslaved in an artificial world called the Matrix. In search of the truth, he must embrace his destiny and confront the agents, programs designed to eliminate any threat to the system. Gradually, he realizes that he could be the Chosen One, capable of freeing humanity from this illusion.

The shootout in the lobby is a perfect test for home theater. Bullets fly from all sides, and each impact explodes in a cloud of debris. The Dolby Atmos soundtrack makes it possible to identify exactly where the shots are coming from, whether in front, behind, to the sides or even over the viewer’s head. The highly dynamic nature of the scene may put some installations to the test.

Available on DVD, HD Blu-ray and 4K Blu-ray
Image (4K Blu-ray): 16:9 format, 2.40:1 cinema format, Dolby Vision, HDR10
Audio (4K Blu-ray): English (Dolby Atmos True HD), French (Dolby Digital 5.1)
Allociné: 3.4/5
IMDb: 8.7/10

The Fifth Element (1997, Luc Besson)

In a future where taxi cabs fly through the air, Korben Dallas, an ex-military man, finds himself in a race against time to save humanity, thanks to the unexpected help of Leeloo, a mysterious young woman. Together, they must find the four elements to prevent an evil force from destroying the Earth.

While Korben is entranced by the incredible voice of Diva Plavalaguna, backstage Leeloo starts fighting enemies. As the track gains in intensity, electro beats are added to underline the action. Moving from calm to a particularly dynamic confrontation, this scene is an excellent experience with a good home theater system.

Available on DVD, HD Blu-ray and 4K Blu-ray
Image (4K Blu-ray): 16:9 format, 2.35:1 cinema format, HDR10
Audio (4K Blu-ray): English, French (Dolby Atmos True HD)
Allociné: 3/5
IMDb rating: 7.6/10

Independence Day (1996, Roland Emmerich)

On an ordinary day in the United States, huge alien spaceships appear in the skies over major cities, plunging humanity into terror. The army and citizens join forces to repel the invasion. David Levinson, an engineer, discovers that time is running out before the aliens attack. What follows is a struggle for survival against a superior power.

The attack on the White House, marked by an iconic explosion, is as impressive visually as it is sonically. Powerful bass, panicked screams and explosions envelop the viewer, providing an excellent test for the power and dynamics of a home theater system.

Available on DVD, HD Blu-ray and 4K Blu-ray
Image (4K Blu-ray): 16:9 format, 2.39:1 cinema format, HDR10
Audio (4K Blu-ray): English (DTS-HD Master Audio 7.1), French (DTS Digital Surround 5.1)
Allociné: 2.4/5
IMDb rating: 7/10

Mars Attacks! (1996, Tim Burton)

When the Martians land on Earth, humanity initially reacts with enthusiasm and optimism. But the invaders’ intentions soon turn out to be far less peaceful than expected. Between comic misunderstandings and total chaos, the Earth’s population is confronted with an invasion as absurd as it is destructive.

Marking an important turning point in the film’s story, the Martian attack immediately sets the tone. A vibrant homage to 1950s science fiction, this scene is filled with special effects and kitschy sound effects. Very immersive on a home theater system, the soundtrack perfectly conveys the chaos of the moment, from the shouts of the crowd to the sounds of lasers coming from all sides.

Available on DVD, HD Blu-ray
Image (HD Blu-ray): 16:9 format, 2.40:1 cinema format
Audio (HD Blu-ray): English (DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1), French (Dolby Digital 5.1)
Allociné: 4/5
IMDb rating: 6.4/10

Ghost in the Shell (1995, Mamoru Oshii)

The Major, a human with a mind preserved in a cybernetic body, works in an elite unit to protect society from virtual terrorist attacks. When mysteries about her own past emerge, she begins to question her identity, at the risk of discovering herself to be much more than just a machine.

At several points in the film, time stops to make way for Kenji Kawai’s music. This iconic soundtrack accompanies the viewer as they reflect on the profound themes of this animated masterpiece. Between the industrial percussion and the musician’s unique melodies, a home theater system allows you to make the most of this unique atmosphere. Also worth noting is the excellent soundtrack to Rupert Sanders’ 2017 film, the original version of which features Dolby Atmos TrueHD.

Available on DVD, HD Blu-ray and 4K Blu-ray
Image (4K Blu-ray): 16:9 format, 1.85:1 cinema format
Audio (4K Blu-ray): English (DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1), French (Stereo)
Allociné: 4.1/5
IMDb rating: 7.9/10

Terminator 2: Judgment Day (1991, James Cameron)

A new Terminator, the T-1000, is sent from the future to eliminate John Connor, future leader of the human resistance against the machines. To protect him, another Terminator, a reprogrammed T-800 model, is also sent by the resistance. John and his mother, Sarah Connor, try to flee, realizing that the future is not set in stone and that they can prevent Skynet’s rise. Their fight leads them to confront the fearsome T-1000, an almost indestructible adversary capable of metamorphosis.

The chase through the Los Angeles canal is a true reference, combining tension and sonic power. The rumble of the truck and the roar of the Harley put the bass to the test, while the explosions reveal the dynamics and precision of the audio reproduction. Every rifle shot from the T-800 resonates distinctly, offering an excellent spatialization test.

Available on DVD, HD Blu-ray and 4K Blu-ray
Image (4K Blu-ray): 16:9 format, 2.40:1 cinema format, Dolby Vision, HDR10
Audio (4K Blu-ray): English (DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1), French (DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1)
Allociné: 3.8/5
IMDb: 8.6/10

RoboCop (1988, Paul Verhoeven)

In a futuristic Detroit dominated by crime, Alex Murphy, a severely wounded policeman, is transformed into a cyborg by a powerful corporation. Now RoboCop, he is programmed to protect the city, but begins to recover fragments of his former life, raising dilemmas about his identity and humanity.

The scene in which RoboCop confronts criminals in a warehouse is grippingly intense, with gunfire and explosions. Perfect for testing bass and spatialization, it highlights the strength of the sound effects. Set against a backdrop of revenge, this scene is particularly pleasurable. The film is also teeming with micro sound details, such as the RoboCop’s mechanical movements.

Available on DVD, HD Blu-ray and 4K Blu-ray
Image (4K Blu-ray): 16:9 format, 1.85:1 cinema format, HDR10
Audio (4K Blu-ray): English (DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1), French (DTS Digital Surround 5.1)
Allociné: 3.7/5
IMDb rating: 7.6/10

Alien (1979, Ridley Scott)

On a space exploration mission, the crew of the ship Nostromo receive an unknown signal and decide to investigate. When they bring aboard a strange creature that clings to one of the crew members, they unleash a terror that overwhelms them. The alien, a deadly and mysterious creature, quickly turns their mission into a nightmare.

A traumatic scene for the passengers of the Nostromo and viewers alike, the appearance of the chestbuster still gives us the chills. The good-natured atmosphere at the start is very realistic, with discussions between the characters heard from all sides of the canteen. The sound design is very well done, underlined by the background noise of the ship’s machinery. The moment when the alien bursts out of the passenger’s chest is strikingly brutal. Only the sound of flesh and alien can be heard, adding to the horror. Incredibly immersive, the many sonic details of this iconic scene deserve to be (re)discovered on a home theater system.

Available on DVD, HD Blu-ray and 4K Blu-ray
Image (4K Blu-ray): 16:9 format, 2.40:1 cinema format, Dolby Vision, HDR10
Audio (4K Blu-ray): English (DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1), French (DTS Digital Surround 5.1)
Allociné: 4.4/5
IMDb rating: 8.5/10

Whether it’s their striking visual effects, immersive soundtracks or intense action scenes, these science fiction films maximise the potential of a home theater system. They allow you to appreciate every detail, from the slightest sound effects to the dynamic range of the bass and the precision of the images. Whatever your equipment, this selection will provide you with an optimal cinematographic experience, plunging your living room into the heart of various futuristic worlds.