Cultural Intertexts (Dec 2015)
American Science Fiction Film – A Bird’s Eye View
Abstract
This work approaches the themes and trends, many of which have fundamental social, political and philosophical significance, that have marked the evolution of American science fiction film, and it points out how the genre has influenced and been affected by the culture in which it has been produced, often in a context that makes it more real than reality - problems such as environmental degradation; overpopulation and pressure on space and goods, friction between the sexes, races, and nations; and the difficulties caused by computers, robots, clones, and aliens. The versatility of American science fiction film has allowed it to address a wide variety of audiences, from filmgoers looking for simple, escapist entertainment, to those eager to have their minds challenged. American science fiction film has also moved to the forefront of filmmaking technology, particularly in the field of special effects.
