10 Sci-Fi Movies That Get Better The Deeper You Go

3. The Matrix

The sequels - or at least the two we've had so far - might have let the original Matrix down somewhat, but the Wachowksis' sci-fi magnum opus remains one of the most transformative, defining movies of its era. Of any era really.

Taking in that nagging suspicion we all have that we're living in a simulation, The Matrix explores the idea of existence, free-will and identity within an imaginative dystopian world. And it's no mere empty-headed action movie either - it's another of those films that has inspired countless theoretical responses and an almost scholastic following.

The most rewarding parallels start to come in when you consider the hidden messages about religion, control and institutions, but there are many, many more possibilities and all of the theories actually feel like validation for the directors' efforts.