A captivating science fiction movie doesn't have to cost hundreds of millions of dollars.

Case in point: "Upstream Color," the long-awaited second film from "Primer" director Shane Carruth. Like the deep dive into time travel in "Primer," Carruth's new movie is a dense and often overwhelming piece of sci-fi. And while "Upstream Color" is packed with gorgeous and powerful images, it isn't particularly interested in providing clear plot explanation.

In fact, it's nearly impossible to even summarize the film's basic setup. Two people, played by Carruth and Amy Seimetz, have been drugged by a worm parasite that can be used to brainwash the victim into giving away money and property.

But this is only the beginning of a three-stage life cycle for the parasite, which then travels into pigs (don't ask), and then into a rare breed of Orchids. When the parasite travels between hosts, some kind of mental connection is formed - meaning the two original human victims begin to experience the emotional feelings of these captured pigs.

Yeah, it's crazy.

It won't be everyone's cup of parasite-laced tea, but "Upstream Color" is magnetic to watch, even if the basic plot hides behind its gorgeous imagery. Moreover, it's a modestly scaled piece of science fiction that doesn't bury you under the CGI rubble of Metropolis.

"Upstream Color" is streaming on Netflix and also available on DVD. I recommend watching the movie blind then jumping onto the film's Wikipedia page. There's a link to a Slate.com article that helps to explain all the insane things you just experienced.

New to Streaming

"A Late Quartet" (2012)

Anything with Christopher Walken, Philip Seymour Hoffman and Catherine Keener is worth your time, right?

It depends on your tolerance for the low-grade jealousy between longtime string quartet players. Walken plays the leader of the group who must step down after learning he has Parkinson's. This isn't a particularly cinematic drama - more appropriate perhaps for a small stage show - but the performances keep it somewhat interesting.

Available on Netflix Streaming.

New Streaming Title to avoid like a zombie plague

"Man of the House" (2005)

This is the Tommy Lee Jones cheerleading movie and NOT the epic Chevy Chase-Jonathan Taylor Thomas combo from 1995. I suppose it doesn't really matter which one it is, because you should never watch either.

Tyler Wilson can be reached at [email protected].