Fancy a bit of futuristic body art? This curated list dives into the intriguing intersection of science fiction and body modification, particularly focusing on piercing. From dystopian futures where body modifications are the norm to tales of alien encounters that leave their mark, these films offer a thrilling exploration of identity, technology, and the human form. Whether you're a fan of cyberpunk aesthetics or simply curious about how piercing can play a role in storytelling, this collection promises to be an eye-opening journey through the cosmos of cinema.

Ghost in the Shell (1995)
Description: This anime classic features cyborgs with extensive body modifications, including ports and interfaces that resemble piercings. The protagonist, Major Motoko Kusanagi, embodies the theme of identity through her cybernetic enhancements.
Fact: The film was groundbreaking for its time, influencing numerous sci-fi works, including "The Matrix."


The Matrix (1999)
Description: While not explicitly about piercing, the film's cyberpunk setting and the concept of humans "plugging in" to a virtual reality system can be seen as a metaphor for body modification. The characters' ability to jack into the Matrix is akin to a high-tech piercing.
Fact: The film's directors, the Wachowskis, were inspired by anime and cyberpunk literature, which heavily influenced the film's aesthetic and themes.


The Thirteenth Floor (1999)
Description: This film explores virtual reality and the concept of living in simulated worlds, where characters can modify their digital avatars, including adding piercings. It delves into the nature of reality and identity.
Fact: The film was released around the same time as "The Matrix" and "eXistenZ," making it part of a wave of VR-themed movies in the late '90s.


Aeon Flux (2005)
Description: Based on the animated series, this film features a futuristic world where body modifications, including piercings, are common. The protagonist, Aeon Flux, uses her modified body to navigate and survive in her dystopian society.
Fact: The film was a box office disappointment but has since gained a cult following for its unique visual style.


Repo Men (2010)
Description: In a world where artificial organs are sold on credit, the film explores the dark side of body modification, where failure to pay results in the repossession of these organs. Piercings and other modifications are part of the futuristic aesthetic.
Fact: The film was originally conceived as a much darker, more satirical take on the healthcare system.


Transcendence (2014)
Description: While not directly about piercing, the film explores the concept of uploading human consciousness into a computer, which can be seen as an extreme form of body modification. The theme of merging with technology is central.
Fact: Johnny Depp, who stars in the film, was initially hesitant to take on the role due to its complex themes.


The Machine (2013)
Description: This film involves the creation of artificial intelligence and human augmentation, with characters undergoing various body modifications, including piercings, to interface with technology.
Fact: The film was made on a relatively low budget but received praise for its visual effects and philosophical depth.


Upgrade (2018)
Description: In a near-future setting, a man receives a technological implant that enhances his abilities, which can be seen as a form of body modification. The film explores themes of control, identity, and the merging of human and machine.
Fact: The film was praised for its practical effects and its homage to classic sci-fi action films.


Strange Days (1995)
Description: Set in a near-future Los Angeles, the film features a technology called "playback" where memories can be recorded and experienced, often through a device that looks like a piercing. It explores themes of voyeurism and identity theft.
Fact: Kathryn Bigelow, the director, was one of the first women to win an Academy Award for Best Director for "The Hurt Locker."


Altered Carbon (2018)
Description: This series delves into a future where consciousness can be transferred between bodies, often involving modifications like piercings to signify status or identity. The concept of "sleeves" or bodies as mere vessels for consciousness is central to the narrative.
Fact: The series is based on the novel by Richard K. Morgan and explores themes of identity, immortality, and the commodification of the human body.
