10 Best War Movies That Take Place in the Future

Estimated read time 7 min read
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Cinema has the unique ability to offer glimpses into potential futures, serving as a cautionary lens on what might unfold if we aren’t vigilant. This can be portrayed through various genres, such as horror films commenting on technological advances, as seen in the 2019 remake of Child’s Play, or epic sci-fi war movies depicting full-scale conflicts.

Despite the relatively limited options, there are hidden gems among futuristic war films. However, don’t anticipate the adventurous spirit of Luke Skywalker, as his tales occurred in a galaxy far, far away. Instead, these films delve into the best depictions of war set in the future.

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10 Best War Movies That Take Place in the Future

Starship Troopers (1997)

Paul Verhoeven’s adaptation of Starship Troopers diverges significantly from Robert A. Heinlein’s source material, which celebrated a patriotic and militaristic mindset. In contrast, Verhoeven’s film serves as both a satire, akin to his previous work in RoboCop, and a thrilling action movie. While the basic premise of a war between humans and bugs remains, the film takes a different approach in its commentary on the mindset surrounding warfare. Notably, Starship Troopers is praised for its exceptional action sequences, standing out as one of the most impressive in the 1990s.

The Matrix Revolutions (2003)

The Battle of Zion in The Matrix Revolutions, despite the overall disappointment of the sequels, stands out as a compelling sequence. It brings intense moments as the people of Zion desperately try to escape and their remaining warriors face the onslaught of machines determined to eradicate humanity’s last stronghold. The chaos and destruction add to the spectacle, making it a noteworthy and engaging part of the film, especially when compared to other less well-received scenes in the trilogy, like the confrontation between a blinded Neo and Deus Ex Machina.

Avatar (2009)

Avatar, directed by James Cameron, unfolds on the vibrant world of Pandora, inhabited by the Na’vi, resembling blue cat-like creatures. The protagonist, Jake Sully, a wheelchair-bound ex-Marine, assumes his late twin brother’s role as an undercover agent to explore the mysteries of this alien planet.

The film’s greatness lies in its exploration of the conflict that arises when a mining company intervenes, introducing a war element. Much like other cinematic narratives, the central theme revolves around the clash between greed and ethics, showcased through meticulously crafted battle scenes. Ultimately, the prevailing theme leans towards ethical considerations.

The Hunger Games: Mockingjay − Part 2 (2015)

Set in the dystopian nation of Panem, formerly North America, The Hunger Games series narrates the story of a corrupt government that forcibly drafts tributes from various districts to participate in a brutal and deadly competition. Despite being portrayed as entertainment, the participants, particularly Katniss Everdeen, view it as a harrowing ordeal. Following Katniss’s victory in the games, she becomes a symbol of resistance, inspiring the people of Panem to rebel, leading to the climactic events in The Hunger Games: Mockingjay − Part 2.

One of the standout aspects of the series is the performance of Jennifer Lawrence, who became a major star through her portrayal of Katniss. However, even without Lawrence, the films are praised for their strong writing, effective production, and a well-rounded cast. As the series progresses, notable names like Julianne Moore, Natalie Dormer, and the late Philip Seymour Hoffman contribute to the success of the two Mockingjay films.

Ender’s Game (2013)

Gavin Hood’s adaptation of Orson Scott Card’s acclaimed Ender’s Game may not have performed as strongly at the box office as one might expect, but it remains a well-crafted and enjoyable piece of entertainment. The story revolves around humanity’s quest for revenge against the alien race that devastated them.

What sets Ender’s Game apart is its universal appeal, catering to audiences of all ages. The film delivers a compelling narrative centered on themes of loss, striking a balance between being uplifting and packed with thrilling, laser-filled excitement. While some action sequences may feel a bit chaotic, this doesn’t detract significantly from the overall experience.

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Pacific Rim (2013)

Pacific Rim’s near-future setting in 2025 may be close to our present, but unlike our real concerns about AI, the film presents a world where humanity battles colossal kaiju using giant mechanized Jaegers. Guillermo del Toro transforms the concept into a thrilling live-action Rock ‘Em Sock ‘Em Robots game, replacing one robot with massive reptilian creatures. The film’s greatness is amplified by outstanding special effects, coupled with commendable performances from actors like Rinko Kikuchi and Idris Elba, making Pacific Rim an incredibly enjoyable experience.

Edge of Tomorrow (2014)

In “Edge of Tomorrow,” Tom Cruise takes on an unconventional role as Major William Cage, a character who finds himself in a position contrary to his usual heroic portrayals. Unlike his accustomed willingness, Cage is reluctantly thrust into the thick of combat against formidable adversaries, showcasing a different facet of Cruise’s acting capabilities.

The film’s strength lies in the compelling choice of casting against type, with Cruise fully committing to the role. His dedicated performance is complemented by captivating action sequences and a standout portrayal by Emily Blunt, making it one of the highlights of her career.

X-Men: Days of Future Past (2014)

Bryan Singer made a comeback to the superhero movie genre with “X-Men: Days of Future Past,” marking his return to the X-Men franchise since 2003’s “X2.” The storyline involves the heroic mutants traveling to the past, specifically 1973, to alter events and prevent a dystopian future plagued by Sentinels—powerful mutant-hunting robots.

While the future segments may not be as intellectually stimulating as the 1973 plotline involving Bolivar Trask, they possess a distinct advantage. “Days of Future Past” excels in showcasing the mutants’ powers through dynamic and engaging action sequences, making it a standout feature in the X-Men film series.

The Tomorrow War (2021)

The Tomorrow War compellingly thrusts regular civilians into the forefront of a war against advanced and lethal aliens, driven by a message from a time traveler. The unique premise argues that relying solely on Earth’s military forces won’t suffice; everyone must join the battle for a chance at victory.

Despite not claiming the top spot among films of its kind, The Tomorrow War boasts notable strengths. Notably, the supporting cast includes underrated acting talents such as Mary Lynn Rajskub and J. K. Simmons.

The Creator (2023)

The Creator unfolds in a future where society’s unwavering trust in AI comes crashing down after an explosion devastates Los Angeles, with humans pointing fingers at artificial intelligence for the catastrophe. Despite its lackluster performance at the box office, the film stands out for its cerebral nature, offering more ambition than it can fully realize. Although it features action sequences, The Creator is characterized more as a thought-provoking piece than a conventional blockbuster, showcasing an impressive yet challenging narrative.

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