Stargate Movie Review
Synopsis: When a mysterious woman makes Professor Daniel Jackson an offer he can’t refuse, he ends up in a secret Air Force military base. His mission: to decode an ancient Egyptian artifact known as the Stargate.
The mission leader, Colonel Jack O’Neil, a tough military man with nerves of steel, commands their trip through the Stargate to an ancient civilization on the other side of the universe. But once there, they must battle the astoundingly powerful Sun God, Ra, before they can find their way back home.
Rating: PG-13.
Run Time: 119 Minutes
Director: Roland Emmerich
Dvd Extra’s: Additional footage, commentary, production notes, cast and crew information, theatrical teaser and trailer.
Nudity Factor: None
Of Note: The film takes place in 1928 and 1996.
Recommendations:
When Stargate first hit theaters in 1994, critics weren’t exactly kind. But like many sci-fi fans, I ignored the early reviews and went anyway—and walked out convinced the critics had completely missed the mark. Stargate isn’t just a good movie; it became the foundation of an enduring sci-fi franchise that fans still celebrate today.
The story begins in 1928 with the discovery of a mysterious circular artifact buried near the Great Pyramids. It looks like a gateway…but to where? Decades later, a brilliant but discredited scientist is recruited to unravel its secrets. What he discovers is beyond imagination—a functioning portal that transports him and a military team to another world. As expected, the military has its own agenda, and what they find on the other side challenges everything they believe about ancient civilizations.
Rewatching Stargate in 2020 reminded me just how well the movie has aged. Many of the practical and early digital special effects still look impressive today. It’s clear the filmmakers relied on real sets, thoughtful design, and audience feedback to craft a sci-fi experience that feels both grounded and epic.
Overall, Stargate delivers a thrilling blend of adventure, mythology, and otherworldly discovery. Its use of Egyptian-inspired lore gives the story a rich backdrop, and while the acting has its ups and downs, the cast ultimately brings their characters to life with conviction. If you’re looking for a classic sci-fi movie that transports you to a fantastic world and still holds up decades later, Stargate absolutely deserves a spot on your watch list.