May 2nd 1902 - "A Trip to the Moon," the first science fiction film was released. It was created by magician George Melies.

By 1900 the movies had already witnessed colour, sound and widescreen, quickly ignored innovations that wouldn't make their mark for several more decades. By contrast, the first special effects extravaganza in 1902 quickly captivated moviegoers and proved to have a more lasting effect. This early hit film was A Trip to the Moon (1902), directed, produced, written and starring French film pioneer Georges Melies.