Attack of the Clones

Movies that prove you’re not seeing double

While a twin is one of two offspring from two parents, a clone is derived from a single “parent.” And thus science has given science-fiction plenty of fodder to play around with. Here are some of our picks for the best examples of fiction based on the idea of a twin or clone. There might be some spoilers here, so watch out!

Star Wars Episode II: Attack of the Clones

An obvious choice, if not the best written one. The clones in question are replicas of Boba Fett’s dad and later became Stormtroopers, and that alone may be the best part of the prequels.

The Island

A Michael Bay movie that makes an attempt at plot? All too true, as the clones are the heroes here struggling to keep their organs from being harvested.

The Prestige

Spoilers ahoy here—cloning is a major plot twist in this Christopher Nolan classic about dueling magicians. You could alternatively read it as Wolverine vs. Batman with David Bowie, which is just as awesome.

Moon

Another sci-fi film with huge spoilers—Sam Rockwell gives the performance of a lifetime as a pair of degenerative clones left to rot on a moon base. Disturbing, unforgettable, a must-watch.

Spider-Man’s “Clone Saga”

Fans lament the infamous Clone Saga of the original comics. Gwen Stacy was cloned, Peter Parker was cloned (but was convinced he was the clone), Aunt May died (but was revealed to be a clone) and Mary Jane had a miscarriage . . . yikes. Initial sales prompted Marvel Comics to drag out the story arc for over two years, and now clones are all but taboo for superhero comics.