AICE Media Studies: Genre Research

Genre - Science Fiction

Science fiction movies are generally recognizable by their inclusion of futuristic technology, such as space or time travel, and complex universes with in depth world building. They frequently contain criticisms or discussions of contemporary societal ills; racism, autocratic regimes, and poverty to name a few. The science fiction genre typically depicts dystopian worlds, where the advancement of technology exhausts entire planets of natural resources. A notable example of this is Bladerunner 2049, where even plant life is scarce.

Blade Runner 2049

Science fiction movies often utilize establishing shots to portray their grandiose, futuristic settings. As the genre is filled with advanced machinery such as spaceships, tracking shots are
used to capture their wide ranges of movement. Additionally, lighting typically utilizes a cool, blue tone to depict the sleekness and sterility of the future. As the settings of science fiction movies often show worlds with vastly more complex technology, CGI is used to better depict them. Practical effects are still seen, such as the puppeteering of aliens, but not in regards to the movie's scenery.

Sci-fi movies are conventionally marketed with action figures, posters and trailers. Their advertisements show the sheer scale of the universe depicted, attempting to introduce the movie's world and its nature to consumers. The demographic for science fiction movies has broadened over time, but the genre originally catered to a younger male audience.

Star Wars is one of the most notable science fiction franchises in history, and for good reason. With movies, shows, and books under its name, the brand's sheer breadth has allowed the different facets of its universe to be portrayed. But despite its futuristic setting, the original trilogy is grounded in very contemporary themes. The tragedy of Anakin Skywalker discusses heartbreak, betrayal, all during a time of intergalactic warfare.

Not all sci-fi movies revolve around beautiful and diverse environments - Denis Villeneuve's Blade Runner 2049 is a prime example of this. The film takes place in a dystopian universe, where grand enterprises supersede the likes of the government and the law. Villeneuve masterfully captures the dark side of technological advancement, as organic life is a rarity. The world's inhabitants live in towering skyscrapers, under a dark, dull sky, solely illuminated by artificial lighting.

Here's a few other examples of Sci-Fi movies:

Alien