10 Sci-Fi Movies Ruined By Terrible Twists

10. Ex Machina

Okay so this is probably one of the most loved entries on this list, but we here at WhatCulture stand by Ex Machina’s inclusion on here, so let us explain.

Yes, Alex Garland’s chilling sci fi mystery is a tense morality play for much of its runtime, and it’s a thrill to see such skilful work from Domhnall Gleeson, Alicia Vikander, and Oscar Isaacs alike. The triumvirate run the gambit from naïve but likeable Caleb, to sleazy but strangely enigmatic Nathan, to doe-eyed and innocent but undeniably unsettling Ava, and the movie is often almost unwatchable as it ratchets up the tension whilst also taking time to discuss the philosophical implications of its not-too-inconceivable conceit.

So what’s it doing on this list?

Well, the film makes it clear that Nathan’s downfall comes from his lack of respect for the humanity of his creations. Fast forward to the ending where, in a bit of effective karma, he’s offed by his own robots.

And Caleb meanwhile is left to slowly die, because he—did respect in their humanity? Viewed robots as human, or worthy of freedom? The film is unclear on exactly why this would be a bad thing, and the ending leaves a frustrating feeling of “damned if you do, damned if you don’t” which renders all that deep meaningful conversation pointless.