Top 10 Mystical Films About Forgotten Inventions

Description: Based on H.G. Wells' novel, this film features a scientist who invents a time machine to travel to the future, only to find a world divided into two races. The invention itself is a forgotten marvel, lost in time until rediscovered.

Fact: The film was one of the first to use stop-motion animation to depict the time travel sequences.

Description: While primarily a historical adventure, the film features a bridge-building project in Africa that becomes a battleground for man-eating lions. The bridge, an engineering marvel, can be seen as an invention with a mystical aura due to the supernatural events surrounding its construction.

Fact: The film is based on true events, though the supernatural elements are added for cinematic effect.

Description: Based on a short story, this film involves a couple who receive a mysterious box with a button that, when pressed, offers them a large sum of money but at a cost. The box itself is an enigmatic invention with supernatural consequences.

Fact: The film was directed by Richard Kelly, known for his complex and often metaphysical narratives.

Description: Set in early 20th century Vienna, this film tells the story of a magician whose illusions are so convincing that they seem like inventions of the impossible. His tricks involve mystical elements, blurring the line between magic and science.

Fact: The film was shot in Prague, which provided the perfect backdrop for its turn-of-the-century setting.

Description: This film revolves around two rival magicians in the late 19th century, whose obsession with a seemingly impossible trick leads to the discovery of a mysterious machine that can duplicate objects and even people. The film's exploration of the ethics and consequences of such an invention makes it a perfect fit for this collection.

Fact: The film was inspired by real-life magicians and their rivalries. The machine used in the film was designed to look like Nikola Tesla's inventions.

Description: In a world where lying does not exist, one man discovers the ability to lie, which he uses to invent religion, change his life, and influence society. This film explores the power of an invention that changes the very fabric of human interaction.

Fact: The film was co-written by Ricky Gervais, who also stars in it, and it was his directorial debut.

Description: This film explores the concept of free will versus destiny through a group called The Adjustment Bureau, who use advanced technology to ensure people follow their predetermined paths. The technology is an invention with mystical implications.

Fact: The film was inspired by a Philip K. Dick short story, known for its exploration of reality and perception.

Description: While not about a forgotten invention per se, this film explores how Charles Dickens created "A Christmas Carol," which can be seen as an invention of modern Christmas traditions. The mystical elements come from Dickens' interactions with his own characters.

Fact: The film was shot in Dublin, Ireland, standing in for Victorian London.

Description: Although not directly about an invention, the film deals with a man's descent into paranoia and insomnia, where he encounters a mysterious character who seems to be a product of his own mind, akin to an invention of his psyche.

Fact: Christian Bale lost a significant amount of weight for his role, showcasing his dedication to the character's physical transformation.

Description: Spanning over a thousand years, this film intertwines three stories, one of which involves a scientist searching for a cure for his wife's illness, using a tree from the Mayan civilization, which can be seen as an ancient, mystical invention.

Fact: The film was a passion project for Darren Aronofsky, who had been trying to make it for over a decade.