Paris, often celebrated for its romance and history, takes on a whole new dimension when viewed through the lens of science fiction. This curated list of 10 films not only showcases the city's iconic landmarks but also reimagines them in futuristic, sometimes dystopian settings. Whether you're a fan of time travel, alien encounters, or technological marvels, these films provide a captivating exploration of what Paris might look like in a different era or universe. Each film brings its own twist to the Parisian landscape, making this collection a must-watch for anyone intrigued by the blend of science fiction and one of the world's most beloved cities.

The Time Machine (1960)
Description: Although the film's main setting is London, it includes a brief but memorable scene where the time traveler visits a futuristic Paris, showcasing the city's evolution over centuries.
Fact: The Paris scene was one of the first uses of time-lapse photography in cinema to depict the passage of time.


The City of Lost Children (1995)
Description: This dark, surreal film by Jean-Pierre Jeunet and Marc Caro transforms Paris into a steampunk wonderland where a mad scientist kidnaps children to steal their dreams. The film's unique visual style and the portrayal of a dystopian Paris make it a standout in this collection.
Fact: The film was shot in various locations around Paris, including the abandoned La Samaritaine department store. It also features Ron Perlman, who learned French for his role.


The Fifth Element (1997)
Description: Luc Besson's vision of the future includes a vibrant, multi-layered Paris where flying cars zip through the Eiffel Tower. The film's depiction of Paris as a bustling, futuristic metropolis is both imaginative and iconic.
Fact: The film was shot in Paris, with the city's landmarks heavily featured. It also includes a cameo by Jean-Paul Gaultier, who designed the costumes.


The Matrix Revolutions (2003)
Description: While the Matrix series is set in a virtual world, Paris is depicted in the real world scenes, offering a contrast to the digital cityscapes. The film's exploration of reality versus simulation adds depth to the Parisian setting.
Fact: The Paris scenes were shot in Sydney, Australia, with CGI used to recreate the city's landmarks.


The Day After Tomorrow (2004)
Description: This disaster film includes scenes of Paris being engulfed by a superstorm, offering a dramatic vision of the city's vulnerability to climate change.
Fact: The film's depiction of Paris under siege by weather phenomena was created using a combination of practical effects and CGI.


The Lake House (2006)
Description: While not entirely set in Paris, this film features a magical mailbox that connects two people living two years apart, with Paris playing a pivotal role in their time-traveling romance. The Parisian scenes add a touch of elegance and mystery to the narrative.
Fact: The film was adapted from the South Korean movie "Il Mare," and the Paris scenes were shot in Chicago, with CGI used to create the illusion of Paris.


The Invisible Boy (1957)
Description: This French-Italian film, while not directly set in Paris, features scenes where the protagonist, an invisible boy, travels to Paris. The film's charm lies in its whimsical take on invisibility and the Parisian backdrop.
Fact: It was one of the first films to use the concept of invisibility in a sci-fi context, predating many similar themes in later cinema.


The Day the Earth Caught Fire (1961)
Description: This classic British sci-fi film features a nuclear test that shifts the Earth's axis, leading to catastrophic climate changes. Paris is one of the cities shown dealing with the aftermath, offering a glimpse of a Paris in crisis.
Fact: The film was shot in black and white, with color used only for the opening and closing sequences to emphasize the dramatic change in the world.


The Man Who Fell to Earth (1976)
Description: Although primarily set in New Mexico, the film includes scenes in Paris where the alien protagonist, played by David Bowie, seeks to understand human culture. Paris's allure adds a layer of sophistication to his journey.
Fact: David Bowie's role was one of his first major film appearances, and his performance was critically acclaimed.


The Abyss (1989)
Description: While not set in Paris, this James Cameron film features a scene where the characters visit Paris in a dream-like sequence, showcasing the city's beauty in a surreal, underwater context.
Fact: The film was groundbreaking for its use of CGI and underwater filming techniques.
