The Andrew Klavan Show Andrew Klavan Ranks These Sci-Fi Films
Nov 13, 2025
Dive into a ranking of iconic sci-fi films, where heartfelt praise meets sharp critique. Discover why 'Back to the Future' nails time travel, while 'Alien' defies its low budget to redefine horror. Get Andrew's take on Spielberg's 'Close Encounters' as artistic genius and cheer for the thrilling 'Terminator'. Not all classics age well, as seen with 'Planet of the Apes.' Plus, explore the surprising triumph of 'Predator' and the haunting narrative of 'Seconds.' A journey through sci-fi that will spark debates!
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Mistaken Identity As A Reader
- Andrew Klavan recalls reading The Running Man as a reader for Columbia Pictures and mistaking Richard Bachman for second-rate King.
- He discovered Bachman was actually Stephen King and revised his view, calling it first-rate Stephen King.
Time Travel By Emotional Conviction
- Klavan praises Back to the Future as a superior, convincing time-travel film that embraces narrative over impossible logical consistency.
- He argues the film succeeds by discarding strict sense and making time travel emotionally and dramatically believable.
Low Budget, High Impact
- Klavan calls Alien a top horror and science fiction film that triumphs on resourceful filmmaking and atmosphere.
- He highlights how low budget constraints didn't stop it from becoming a singular, terrifying success.
