Modern Science Fiction Directors: 3 Filmmakers Who Stand Out

George Lucas, Joss Whedon, and J.J. Abrams ... those are the names that pop up quite often when discussing modern science fiction films. Here's a look at why these three filmmakers stand out among the rest.

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1. George Lucas

When George Lucas’ “Star Wars” burst onto the scene in 1977, it changed the motion picture industry forever. Time.com judges the film’s influence on the science fiction genre, stating that, “‘Star Wars’ made it hot, and made it an A-movie genre.”

“Star Wars” has also altered the face of our society. According to space.com, “The impact of ‘Star Wars’ is not limited to pop culture or even world politics. As science and technology advance, the world is little by little growing more and more like that galaxy far, far away."

2. J.J. Abrams

Lucas’ original “Star Wars” created an entire generation of storytellers, directors and special effects artists, many of whom went on to success in the motion picture industry. One such name that has gone on to success is J.J. Abrams.

Abrams is, perhaps, the hottest name in science fiction films today. He burst onto the scene with his work on the television show “Lost,” as well as the “Mission: Impossible” film franchise. His reboots of the “Star Trek” franchise were well received and earned more than $715 million in global box office receipts.

In December of this year, “Star Wars” makes its return to the big screen in a new adventure directed by Abrams, “Episode VII: The Force Awakens.” The movie features a cast of newcomers along with veterans Harrison Ford, Mark Hamill, and Carrie Fisher, who will reprise the iconic roles of Han Solo, Luke Skywalker, and Princess Leia.

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3. Joss Whedon

Meanwhile, Joss Whedon’s name has become synonymous with science fiction, action, and adventure. His first film for Marvel Studios, 2012's “The Avengers,” became one of the highest grossing films ever. It’s sequel, “Avengers 2: Age of Ultron,” is scheduled to open May 1, 2015.

Regarding Whedon’s efforts with the Marvel’s movie franchise, theguardian.com says, “The reason movie studios are falling all over themselves to build their own giant interlocking movie universes ... is all down to the blueprint Joss Whedon laid down with The Avengers.”

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