I'm not sure exactly when the change took place but at some point in the movie industry Sci-Fi became the equivalent of hey-let's-watch-things-blow-up-in-space. Lots of special effects, minimal story, little character development. It pulls in average movie goers (LCD) and makes money for the studios.
With very few exceptions, quiet & thoughtful Sci-Fi movies have not made bank, so producers are less likely to nibble.
Speaking of good recent movies, I'd recommend
Moon.