Stargate (1994), directed by Roland Emmerich, is a thrilling blend of science fiction and adventure that laid the groundwork for an expansive franchise. The film follows Egyptologist Daniel Jackson (James Spader) and Colonel Jack O’Neil (Kurt Russell) as they travel through a mysterious alien portal to a distant planet resembling ancient Egypt.

There, they encounter an oppressed civilization ruled by the god-like alien Ra. With impressive special effects, an intriguing premise, and a mix of action and mythology, Stargate delivers an engaging and visually stunning experience. While some elements feel campy, the film remains a cult favorite and a must-watch for sci-fi fans.

In what many would (rightly) consider Roland Emmerich’s finest film, Kurt Russell and James Spader travel many lightyears to a distant planet to begin what would become a very successful TV franchise. Amazingly, though, Stargate was generally dismissed by critics, and even now has a rather inexplicable 48% on Rotten Tomatoes. General audiences disagreed, and the $55 million prodution would go on to earn $196 million on its original release.