Introduction
Since the release of German director Fritz Lang’s creation Metropolis science fiction has come forward leaps and bounds. Not only has this genre provided us with some of the greatest films in the last century. But it continues to innovate, surprise and push the boundaries of what is possible in filmmaking. This is why the genre I most prefer to watch is Science Fiction.
Main Body
While it is true, that I enjoy watching films from several genres, from action to thrillers to dramas to documentaries. Science fiction is one genre which combines all of these different film types into one giant melting pot and provides an experience which is more than the sum of its parts. Some of the greatest films and filmmakers in our history have made entire careers in this films realm. Long considered to be two of the greatest directors in the world Steven Spielberg and James Cameron have both provided some of the greatest films in history. Films such as E.T, Terminator 2 and Close encounters of the third kind have not only enthralled and entertained audiences for many years but have also gained accolades for the genre and pushed special effects and filmmaking techniques to new heights.
Even two of the best films released this year are firmly in the science fiction category. Star Trek is a movie which is the continuation of a long standing franchise which started back in 1966. Not only was this series one of the first of its kind to broach subjects such as racism and the dangers of technology. It was also the first series to feature an interracial kiss on network television, a historical landmark. The film continues this tradition and provides one of the best films this year. The other film is District 9 made by filmmaker Neill Blomkamp is one which not only provides one of the best dramatic action films this year, but also provides a candid look at the issue of apartheid (Lee). It is also worth noting that transformers 2: revenge of the fallen is another film released this year which made over 800 million dollars and became one of the highest grossing films in the world (Box Office Mojo).
The primary reason why I love watching such films is because of the storylines. It is true that science fiction films are primarily seen as vehicles which push special effects technology to its limits. It is the storylines within these films that give it its heart and keep viewers coming back to them again and again. It may be true that in many ways there are no original ideas left in films. Today several films which are shown to the public are merely stories which are being retold in a different medium. There are very few films out there which can provide an original viewing experience for moviegoers. Science Fiction provides such an experience, not only does science fiction storytelling allows filmmakers to touch on topics such as racism, technological progress, global warming and others. It also allows them to present these issues in a manner which does not harm the audience’s sensibilities.
The genre allows for several cravings to be satisfied. Because films simply have to delve into technological fantasy, science fiction allows filmmakers to mix and match any genre within it. The film Serenity made by Joss Whedon mixed the genres of action, science fiction and westerns into a product which provided heart stopping action, comedy and a brilliant story. Science fiction has also delved into horror, thrillers and drama. The genre was also the first which pioneered the use of the green screen for special effects which has been used in several other genres since then to provide nonstop entertainment for audiences around the world and bring previously unfeasible environments to life.
If there is one flaw in the genre, it is that with the increased sophistication shown by movie going audiences around the world making such films today with a limited budget is extremely difficult and more than unlikely. The previously mentioned film District 9 had a budget of 30 million dollars; though it is true the film was heavy in effects and according to the results, used the money quite wisely (Lee). The costs of making such films today have become astronomical and do not provide openings for every filmmaker. Additionally, due to the change in audience taste Science fiction films are not as popular as they once were. Gone are the days of Star Wars when special effects could keep moviegoers in their seats. It takes a lot more to keep today’s moviegoers in their seats and entertained.
Conclusion
Despite all this science fiction has always been my favorite genre. People say the mark of a good film is that it provides the viewer with a new perspective each time he watches it. Science fiction films provide so many great experiences, stories and visual treats I simply cannot see myself enjoying another genre as much as I enjoy this.
Works Cited
Box Office Mojo. TRANSFORMERS: REVENGE OF THE FALLEN. 2009.
Lee, Chris. ‘District 9’ director Neill Blomkamp knows how to stretch a dollar. 2009. Web.