Code 8: Netflix’s Underrated Sci-Fi Franchise Deserves Another Movie

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Netflix has found success with its science fiction content, and one particular series is so good it deserves a sequel. Beyond sci-fi, Netflix’s original shows and movies are now considered among the greatest ever made, helping the platform distinguish itself in several genres.

Netflix has a lot of popular science fiction content, including shows like Stranger Things and Dark, and movies such as Okja and The Electric State. But one of Netflix’s strongest sci-fi offerings is the Code 8 series, and it definitely deserves another film to continue the story.

What Is Code 8 About?

Code 8 began as a sci-fi short film in 2016, created by Jeff Chan and Chris Paré, and featured Robbie Amell. The short film’s popularity led to a full-length movie in 2019, with Chan directing and Paré writing, again starring Amell.

Code 8 is set in a future where certain people are born with special powers. These individuals, known as “Powers,” are legally required to register their abilities. While they contribute significantly to the city’s economy, Powers face discrimination, a problem that worsens with the rise of a dangerous, addictive drug called “Psyke” after a period of rapid industrial change.

Psyke is created using a substance derived from individuals illegally exploited for their Powers, leading to discussions about banning Powers altogether. At the same time, Connor Reed (Amell) struggles to survive in a world where his abilities prevent him from holding a legal job, all while trying to afford his mother’s medical care.

Connor gets pulled into a dangerous world of super-powered individuals, criminals, and the police when Garrett (Stephen Amell) offers him a questionable job. The 2019 film, Code 8, was released in theaters and later on Netflix in 2020, earning critical acclaim and leading to a follow-up movie.

Released on Netflix in 2024, Code 8: Part II follows Connor as he attempts to rebuild his life after being released from prison. But when a dishonest police officer unleashes advanced humanoid robots, Connor is pulled back into a world of action to assist a young individual with special abilities, known as a Power. Despite a few shortcomings, the film has been well-received by critics.

Code 8 Is Netflix’s Most Underrated Sci-Fi Franchise

Despite being a hidden gem among Netflix’s sci-fi offerings, Code 8 is seriously underrated. The movie builds a compelling and detailed world that, while featuring superpowers and futuristic technology, feels surprisingly realistic and relatable.

Beyond action, Code 8 explores themes of politics, society, and morality, shown through the characters’ hardships, government involvement, and police interactions. Unlike typical superhero stories, Code 8 focuses on everyday survival and helping others, rather than saving the world.

Code 8 has the potential to become a major sci-fi franchise across various platforms like movies, TV shows, and comics. With more support from Netflix, it could really take off.

What’s Next For The Code 8 Franchise?

As of now, a third Code 8 movie isn’t officially happening, but Robbie and Stephen Amell, who have produced the project since the original 2016 short, have hinted at the possibility for some time. They’ve mentioned there are still many stories to tell within the Code 8 universe, but a third installment hasn’t been approved yet.

In August 2025, a comic book called Code 8: Tales of Lincoln City was released after being funded by fans. It tells the story of how Connor got his start and explores events from the city’s history. If a new Code 8 movie doesn’t happen, the comic book could potentially continue as a series, though its future isn’t certain.

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2026-02-07 18:10