1979 Hit Film Was Just Ranked the 'Most Intense Sci-Fi Movie Ever Made'

While the science fiction genre does have a few quiet, contemplative films, some of the most memorable sci-fimovies have plenty of action scenes and stress-inducing moments. The publication Collider showcased some of the most heart-pounding films from the genre by ranking "the 10 most intense sci-fi movies ever made."

The list, published on May 13, spotlighted beloved sci-fi movies like Ex Machina from 2014, 1982's The Thing, 2018's A Quiet Place, and Invasion of the Body Snatchers from 1978. Collider named Ridley Scott's classic Alien (1979), starringSigourney Weaver as Lt. Ellen Ripley, as the "most intense" science fiction film of all time.

According to the publication, the film deserves the title because it's upsetting and exhilarating to watch as the USCSS Nostromo crew gets picked off one by one.

Sigourney Weaver Shared Insight Into Filming 'Alien' in 1979

Weaver discussed making Alien in a 1979 interview, shortly after the film's premiere. According to Weaver, it was difficult to convey Riley's emotions and connection to her crewmates in an action-centered movie.

"It's a very technical film, and the relationships are not the focus of the movie. The relationships have to be understood, and they have to be played, but through the action of the film. That was very challenging," said the actress in the 1979 interview.

In addition, Weaver, who has reprised Ripley in three Alien sequels, said that she was genuinely frightened while on set. She explained that the Xenomorphs looked convincingly real because "the special effects were so good."

"You never saw that it was actually made of sticks and stones or something. Everything really worked and was convincing, so that helped the actors tremendously in keeping that illusion of being terrified," said Weaver, now 76.

Weaver also shared that she wouldn't have had the same take-charge attitude as her on-screen counterpart if she were faced with Xenomorphs.

"My reaction in the same situation would probably be to make terrible jokes a lot. You know, I don't think I would come through in the same way that Ripley does. I would probably wise off a lot," said the Avatarstar.

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This story was originally published May 15, 2026 at 4:56 PM.