Portfolio Project Genre #2

The next genre I would like to explore is this science fiction genre. This genre is generally based on a world that involves technological advancements that seem impossible in modern day. Mentions of another species from a different world or dimension is also commonly seen. Sci-fi has caught my eye because of the many interesting concept that can be derived from the genre, one sub-genre that I'm particularly interested in is the dystopian fiction. What I love about this genre category is that there is a lot of freedom to what I can create for my project, and I'm excited to share what I've learned so far. 

According to Vivian Sobchack, a British cinema and media theorist and cultural critic: Science fiction film is a film genre which emphasizes actual, extrapolative, or 2.0 speculative science and the empirical method, interacting in a social context with the lesser emphasized, but still present, transcendentalism of magic and religion, in an attempt to reconcile man with the unknown (Vivian Carol Sobchack, p. 63.) This tells us that sci-fi is based on the concept of the supernatural world merging with the natural one. This genre typically targets an older generation of tech-savvy audiences, often appealing to adults aged 35-50. However, sci-fi has evolved to attract a younger audience with a strong 18-24 demographic seeking engaging and thought provoking films. 

The key component of a sci-fi film would be world-building. Establishing the setting and the rules of the universe is essential to creating an alternate place that audience's can comprehend. Just like drama, relatable emotions and characters must be presented so that viewers can feel a connection to the content. In a dystopian film, conventions with techniques could include the dark lighting, flicking light, and symbols of decay, showing the damaged society. It's especially important that dystopian fiction includes dramatic complications with relationships, which adds to character development and growth. Dystopian fiction often critiques current trends, societal norms, or political systems through exaggerated worst-case scenarios. 

An example of a sci-fi film would be the 2005 production of The War of the Worlds, based on a sci-fi novel by H.G. Wells. The alien invasion element of this movie identifies it as a sci-fi film, with fictional speculation. The plot revolves around a father and her daughter who are desperate to escape the wipe of humans by an unknown invading force. The film also features advanced technology, yet another essential trait in the sci-fi genre. The sci-fi elements of this film was captured through the expression of a technologically superior race of species attacking Earth and humanity's struggle for survival. 

The 2012 movie series of The Hunger Games is a prime example of the dystopian fiction genre. The world of The Hunger Games is based off of an oppressive society, highlighting the key element to building a dystopian world. The social inequality that is shown between the poor districts and the wealthy Capitol, paired with the totalitarian control of the government. continues to exemplify the key components of the genre. This book-based movie shows themes of distrust in the government and society, as well as class discrimination, rebellion, and the ethics of entertainment, which are all important to the narrative, highlighting its dystopian nature.