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First of all, let me clarify that this compilation does not focus on the popularity of the sci-fi franchise. If that was the case, this list would look very different (Battlestar Galactica wouldn’t have ranked that high). The main concern on this list is how ingenious the entire series was executed. How good is the story and other elements. Still, popularity has a lot to do with the criteria used to judge and ultimately award the 4 best sci-fi franchises of all time.
Top 5 X Files
Agents Fox Mulder and Dana Scully went off to hunt down the truth about the government cover-ups of extraterrestrial contact on Earth. The series defined its generations with its distrust of powerful institutions and its faith-seeking motto “the truth is out there.” The ever elusive mystery and dark, twisted plots keep audiences in their seats.
Star Trek Top 4
This is the father of all that is science fiction. This doesn’t need as much introduction as it can definitely be classified as a 20th century cultural icon. Star Trek fans are everywhere. And they will most likely fight furiously for any cause that offends their fandom. The series is a breakthrough, inventing a new genre on television.
Star Wars Top 3
Star Wars is the other father of science fiction. George Lucas based the story on the hero cycle theory of Joseph Campbell (a modern thinker whose major contribution is the study of cross-cultural archetypes and myths). Everyone was captivated by this impressive movie (at least in its day). George Lucas’ special technical effects are hallmarks of film history. The story of Luke’s rise to power is pretty good too.
Top 2 Battlestar Galactica
This series ranks first because it has officially dismantled the old Star Trek regime and showed viewers the visceral, cerebral and dark future saga that touches on deep philosophical questions. Its plot: Man creates Cylon, Cylon creates Cylons in the image of man, in the battle between the two, the limits between the term “organic being” and “human person” are questioned. The show, like the X files, keeps audiences engrossed in an ever-fleeting question about origins.
Top 1 The Matrix
The Matrix redefined the action movie. Its cinematography and action scenes set a high benchmark for all subsequent films to come afterwards. The story is exciting. The game of smashing the mind with reality and humanity issues is interesting. It is a clash full of philosophical parts that do not ruin the story and instead enrich the experience one has of it.