Every Single Sci-Fi Film Ever: Where No Podcast Has Gone Before

 People not familiar with the science-fiction (sci-fi) movie genre tend to focus on its popular franchises, like Star Wars or Star Trek. 

Yet there are hundreds of standalone sci-fi films that still shine brightly today like a supernova, blinding us with their artistic vision, concept of the future, or descent into a nightmarish apocalypse.

In my humble opinion, some of the best sci-fi movies ever made include 2001, Planet Of The Apes, Forbidden Planet, Terminator 2, Aliens, Invasion of the Body Snatchers, and for a comedic break, Galaxy Quest. 

The genre is so rich in exceptional filmmaking that someone should produce a podcast about all sci-fi films.

Wait, someone did. The Every Single Sci-Fi Film Ever podcast, which began in March 2024, looks back at more than a century of films, beginning in 1902 and working towards the future. Each episode focuses on a film, director or theme and brings in experts to discuss its history, politics and influences.

Each episode focuses on a film, director or theme and brings in experts to discuss the history, politics, and influences.

Award-winning podcast producer and sci-fi film enthusiast Ayesha Khan volunteers for the task. Her continuing mission: to explore strange old films, seek out the experts, and to boldly bring them to you.

"We will begin our journey with an episode dedicated to finding out what science fiction actually is. Then we move to Paris, 1902, to watch and discuss the first sci-fi film ever: Le Voyage Dans La Lune. Occasionally we will take some detours," says Ayesha Khan.

 After the trailer, the first episode starts at...well, the beginning. Khan begins examining what science fiction is. In that episode, she speaks to science fiction scholars Lisa Yaszek and Glynn Morgan about the definitions of this well-known genre. What is the difference between science fiction and fantasy? Are superhero movies sci-fi? Are the 'we' the real monsters? As always, Khan advises, "Please be warned: as always, there are spoilers ahead!"

 In the fifth episode, Khan tackles Metropolis. In 1927 Fritz Lang made what is to this day considered one of the greatest films of all time. It is based on a story by Thea Von Harbou, his wife at the time, who went on to collaborate with the Nazi Party on multiple films.

Khan explains: "The ongoing influence of Metropolis on film is immense. Films like Blade Runner, Fifth Element, Frankenstein, Batman, and more recently Poor Things have all been influenced by it. And yet, the film itself was not a hit."

Today, famous director Francis Ford Coppola has produced and directed his version of Metropolis at a cost of $120 million of his own money. The movie has not been received well.

Ayesha Khan is an excellent host with an obvious passion for the topic.

Khan says: "I obviously love sci-fi films, but my life gets in the way of watching and learning more about them. A lot of that time is spent working on other podcasts or productions. Although I’ve seen a fair few sci-fi films over the years, I’ve definitely missed a lot. At least seven. Although closer to hundreds, if not thousands. With this podcast, I get to go on a journey of discovery. The kind of journey I like. (And yes, when I say journey, I am imagining myself in a spaceship. Not a time machine. Time machines are more trouble than you bargain for)."

Khan continues: "Each episode plans to put the film I watch into context of the time, society and people it was borne of. I do the research, I find the experts and I bring them to you! And then you all cheer, or chase me with pitchforks. To clarify, I would prefer the former. But alas, sometimes the things we create have unexpected consequences."

In the bottom of the show notes to every episode gives listeners the links to where to find the next film. Khan promises that "Every once in a while, we’ll take a break from the studious business of watching science fiction films and speak to some people about their favorite sci-fi film, or discuss a science fiction theme or topic."

I highly recommend Every Single Sci-Fi Film Ever if you're a sci-fi fan. The host, Ayesha Khan, is fascinating and passionate about the topic, and she mixes humor in with her sci-fi discussions.

I'll let Ayesha Khan end with her request of listeners: "I would be thrilled if you would join me on my intergalactic journey. The great thing about this intrepid adventure is that you can take part while sitting on a sofa, cozily dressed in your pajamas. But don’t let me limit you. You could also be wearing your best Klingon regalia or be dressed as a mad scientist. The point is, you can wear what you like."

Technical Advisor: Pushpa Khanal