The Wrap: J.J. Abrams’ Films, Ranked Worst to Best

Super 8 is #3 best, right after "Star Wars: The Force Awakens" (2015) and "Star Trek" (2009) 

3. "Super 8" (2011) The only original film Abrams has directed is, ironically, a pastiche of iconic 1980s cinematic sci-fi–fantasy movies. “Super 8” tells the story of a group of adolescent amateur filmmakers who stumble onto a train disaster which, naturally, unleashes a mystery monster into their quiet town. Though treading on familiar territory and leading to a somewhat lukewarm conclusion, it’s got a great cast, some good drama and a real heart. “Super 8” is a warm and sincere homage to a bygone cinematic era, but it’s an era which -- thanks to throwbacks like “Super 8” -- has never actually been “bygone” long enough for this kind of loving throwback to feel completely earned.