Science Fiction Movie Archives

The Maze Runner Movie Review

Movie Review, Science Fiction Movie / M Pax / February 13, 2026

The Maze Runner is an interesting and engaging film with strong performances and compelling characters. The central premise—a group of boys trapped inside a massive, shifting maze—is immediately intriguing, and the tension and mystery carry the story forward. On a scene-by-scene level, the film is effective.

Where it falters, for me, is in providing context. I kept searching for the underlying framework of the story: the why and the what. I’m open to being dropped into a mystery with limited information, but I need that mystery to eventually resolve into meaning. Without that core understanding, the events never fully coalesced into something emotionally grounded.

The maze itself is compelling, and the acting remains solid throughout. However, by the end of the film, I was still unsure what the story was actually about or what was real within its world. The final reveal gestures toward explanation, only to pull back again, leaving the central motivation frustratingly vague.

As a result, the ending left me asking not “What happens next?” but “Why should I care?” Without a clear narrative foundation, the mystery doesn’t deepen—it dissipates. The Maze Runner succeeds at atmosphere and momentum, but withholds too much meaning to fully land as a standalone story.

Because I was left so wanting at the end, I have to give it a rating of 2.5 beers. I don’t think drinking 2.5 beers would leave me less confused, but hey, it’s beer.

Have you seen this one? I know there’s a book, but I haven’t read it. Maybe I’d be less confused if I had.

Here’s the trailer:

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Spectral: Science Fiction Movie Review

Movie Review, Science Fiction Movie / M Pax / January 16, 2026

Sci-fi suspense that hooks you without overthinking it.

Spectral is a good, entertaining ride. The movie centers on a mysterious force killing people. At first, the “spectral” nature of the foe made me think of Predator, but the story quickly took a completely different path.

The film is well-acted with a strong ensemble cast, and the story hangs together in a logical, coherent way. The special effects are impressive, and what the foe actually turns out to be is fascinating and unlike anything I’ve seen before. That twist really caught my attention.

Spectral is suspenseful, full of action, and even dips into interesting ethical debates about science versus the reality of funding research. And if you’re paying attention, there’s a nod to a classic sci-fi trope — “reversing the polarity” — which is always fun to spot.

If you’re looking for a mind-blowing, twist-filled plot, this isn’t it. It’s fairly predictable, but the execution makes the story feel fresh enough to keep you engaged. So, I give it a one-beer rating. One is more than enough to have a good time watching Spectral.

Here’s the trailer:

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Movie Review: Brian and Charles

Science Fiction Movie / M Pax / November 11, 2025

This movie was labeled as sci-fi, but the robot was the only science fiction bit about it. All the same, I enjoyed this movie.

Brian and Charles is a quirky and charming British film set in the picturesque countryside of Wales. Brian, a lonely inventor living in his cottage, spends his days tinkering and building bizarre creations. Some of his inventions, like the flying cuckoo clock, are hilariously absurd. That bit still makes me chuckle. While billed as a comedy, the film isn’t without its darker moments.

Needing companionship more than anything else, Brian eventually constructs a robot from spare parts, including a washing machine for the abdomen. The robot names itself Charles and quickly becomes more than a machine. His evolution is funn, especially when he moves into the moody teenager phase. Charles develops his own life goals which don’t always align with Brian’s. But their friendship is always heartwarming, funny, and occasionally heartbreaking.

Parts of the story are totally predictable, but the combination of quirkiness, charm, and sweet messages makes Brian and Charles worth watching. It’s a lighthearted, endearing movie, and one beer is more than enough to enjoy it fully. Yes, charming and delightful.

Here’s the trailer:

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Movie Review: Mega Shark vs. Mecha Shark

Movie Review / M Pax / October 17, 2025

Starring Christopher Judd, Mega Shark vs. Mecha Shark delivers exactly what you’d expect from a film with that title—plus a few unexpected gems.

I went into this one hoping Judd would drop a signature “Indeed” at some point. Sadly, no dice. Had he done it, this movie might’ve earned a bonus half-beer deduction. Even without it, though, this film is still packed with sharky fun.

The Asylum knows what its audience wants: destruction, mayhem, and ridiculous chaos. And on that front, they absolutely deliver. There were several moments where I laughed out loud at the sheer absurdity—and I mean that in the best possible way. Sharky shenanigans? Top tier.

Now, I won’t spoil the major twist that reeled this beer rating down from a 2.5 to a very enjoyable 1.5. But I will mention one minor spoiler (last warning!). When the megalodon batted a torpedo back at a submarine like a boss? Fabulous. Just one of many gloriously over-the-top moments.

If you’re a fan of the disaster-shark genre—and let’s be honest, who isn’t—you’re going to enjoy this one. Ridiculous in the best way, Mega Shark vs. Mecha Shark is a solid 1.5 beer movie. Pop a cold one and dive in.

Here’s the trailer:

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Sci-Fi Worth Watching: Star Trek’s Section 31 Movie review

Movie Review, Science Fiction Movie / M Pax / September 27, 2025

Section 31 is a fun romp through the grittier side of Star Trek, led by the always-splendid Michelle Yeoh. I enjoy seeing a rougher edge to the usually polished Trek universe, and this movie scratches that itch.

There’s an interesting team of misfits working together to stop a dangerous weapon, which gave it a Guardians of the Galaxy vibe—minus the edgy soundtrack. The opening offered some insight into Georgiou’s character, but the plot missed the mark with the arc involving San, the boy from her past. After all the damage she inflicted, his burning hatred felt right. His change of heart later on seemed far too fast and not quite earned. I also would have liked more about why Georgiou started to change in the mirror universe. I know she changed some upon encountering Discovery, but I still think more insight into Georgiou is needed for this change.

While there’s a lot to like about the plot and the twist on the usual Trek story, the movie still ultimately fell back into familiar territory: once again, the fate of the galaxy was at stake. I wish they’d raise different stakes now and then instead of always going so big.

Spoilers Ahead!
If you don’t want spoilers, stop reading now.

First, the arc with San: the beginning showed Georgiou as cold-hearted and ruthless, and San’s hate rang true. His sudden turnaround and rekindled love with her felt forced and unearned.

Second, the Hunger Games-style contest among children? It felt too familiar, like borrowed territory rather than a fresh idea. I honestly expected young Georgiou to laugh it off as a tall tale she’d heard. It didn’t quite fit.

The mole intrigue was fun, but the plot kept distracting itself . I rolled with it because, in my opinion, a movie’s first job is to be fun—but still, when they somehow survived after the explosion and came back into focus… I definitely rolled my eyes.

As for the ending: while sappy and hokey, it was fine. But after such an edgy beginning, I wished the tone had matched better from start to finish. I think Georgiou sacrificing herself for one universe—or finding a way to repair the mirror universe—would have made for a stronger, more satisfying redemption arc.

Still, if you want a gritty, action-filled Star Trek adventure with plenty of Michelle Yeoh badassery, Section 31 delivers. I’d say one beer is enough to have fun with this one.

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Sci-Fi Worth Watching: Ro & the Stardust #MovieReview

Movie Review, Science Fiction Movie / M Pax / September 12, 2025

If you’re a fan of heartwarming, short films with a sprinkle of sci-fi, Ro and the Stardust is a must-watch. The film, set on a distant planet in the future, follows Ro as she helps her terminally ill grandmother build a rocket in a scrap yard. Her grandmother’s dream? To launch into space and die among the stardust—her final wish before passing.

The story is simple, yet deeply touching. It’s a beautiful exploration of family, dreams, and the emotional bond between Ro and her grandmother. Though it’s a short film, it’s the kind of story that sticks with you long after the credits roll. There’s something about the gentle, yet profound narrative that makes it hard not to fall in love with the characters.

The aesthetic, which immediately reminded me of Bagdad Cafe—one of my all-time favorites—adds to the charm of the film. It has that unique, quiet energy.

If you’re looking for a quick, emotional ride that leaves you with a warm feeling, Ro and the Stardust is definitely worth your time. It’s short enough that you won’t have time to get bored but impactful enough to make you reflect on the beauty of life and letting go. Highly recommended for anyone who appreciates a sweet, emotional tale with a dash of futuristic charm.

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