Science Fiction
Introduction to a genre
1927 - Metropolis
 Concerns:
 The impact of “new”
technology
 The dehumanising and
exploitative potential of
the “machine age.”
 Introduced the
iconography of the
genre- robots & mad
scientists.
1950- Invasion Science Fiction
 Reflect USA Concerns:
 Invasion by aliens a
mirror of the Cold War
anxieties - communist
spies & nuclear
annihilation.
1960s The Space Odyssey
Optimism and spiritual
development with the
exploration of new worlds.
The iconography of highly
technical space craft,
dangerous, self aware
computers (HAL) and the
use of inter-linked images
and music to enhance the
grandeur of space
1980 Dystopian Views
Films reflect a world that is
disillusioned, pessimistic and
decaying.
A world in which nothing could
be trusted and where
everything and everybody
had a price.
1990 Technology issues
 Matrix & Bladerunner
reflect:
 Concern about the
relationship of man and
technology.
 Cyborgs and the
combination of human
intelligence with virtual
reality & cyberspace.
1990 Invasion Problems
 The return of the alien
invasion theme.
 America combines
against overwhelming
enemy and triumphs.
 Good versus Evil.
 Patriotism rules.
1990 & beyond
post-modern issues
 Bladerunner & Matrix reflect:
 A post modern world where
the distinction between real
and virtual are blurred.
 Raise the Frankenstein
question “What is the role of
man in the new scientific age
and what are the dangers
inherent in acting as God?
Ideology & Science Fiction
case studies
 Independence Day
 The triumph of America
- a crusade to save the
world.
 Patriotism - use of
American flag on moon.
The icons of America Statue of Liberty, Iwo
Jima flag raising, White
House…
Ideology & Science Fiction
case studies
 Independence Day
 An invasion requires
(Communism / Cold War )
US to unite against the
external threat to defeat the
enemy.
 USA, a multi-racial,
integrated society stands
alone against the implacable
might of the aliens. Note use
of Will Smith (negro) and
Jeff Goldblum (jew) as the
heroes.
Ideology & Science Fiction
case studies
 Independence Day
 Male dominance in society as
women in film are subservient,
support role types for men.
 President (WASP) gives speech
on July 4th = America’s patriotic
duty to save the world.”
 Film re-enforces concept of US
supremacy and superiority in
the world and its ability to
overcome challenges against
the odds.