Aliens R Us: The Other In Science Fiction Cinema Contributor(s): Sardar, Ziauddin (Editor), Cubbitt, Sean (Editor) |
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ISBN: 0745315399 ISBN-13: 9780745315393 Publisher: Pluto Press (UK) OUR PRICE: $35.15 Product Type: Paperback - Other Formats Published: February 2002 Annotation: "Aliens R Us" explores the global culture of science fiction, and in particular its presentation of contemporary images of the Other. Taking as a starting point the popularity of international forms such as Japanese Manga and Hong Kong sci-fi, in addition to the success of Canadian and European films such as "Crash" and "The Fifth Element," the contributors examine the science fiction genre as an international, populist form of social analysis. In doing so they discuss issues such as Orientalism, technology, apocalyptic futures, xenophobia, immigration, militarism, and the role of women.Most contemporary studies look at the generic characteristics of science fiction, with its allegorical rendering of contemporary life, usually in relation to America. This book moves beyond a purely generic study, assessing European and Asian film work, discussing their varying representations of the Other, and what this reveals about popular perceptions of global culture and society. Case studies include "Independence Day," and "Until the End of the World" in addition to chapters on "Eco-Apocalypse" and new French sci-fi, and New Manchester Ecstasy sci-fi. |
Additional Information |
BISAC Categories: - Performing Arts | Film - History & Criticism - Literary Criticism | Science Fiction & Fantasy |
Dewey: 791.439 |
LCCN: 2001003316 |
Physical Information: 0.52" H x 5.48" W x 8.56" (0.64 lbs) 192 pages |
Descriptions, Reviews, Etc. |
Publisher Description: Aliens R Us explores the global culture of science fiction cinema, and in particular its presentation of contemporary images of the Other. Taking as a starting point the popularity of international forms such as Japanese Manga and Hong Kong sci-fi, in addition to the success of films such as The Matrix and television series such as Deep Space Nine, the contributors examine the science fiction genre as an international, populist form of social analysis. In doing so, they discuss issues such as Orientalism, technology, apocalyptic futures, xenophobia, militarism and the role of women. Most contemporary studies look at the generic characteristics of science fiction, with its allegorical rendering of contemporary life, usually in relation to America. This book moves beyond a purely generic study, assessing European and Asian film work, discussing their varying representations of the Other, and what this reveals about popular perceptions of global culture and society. Case studies include Independence Day, Star Trek: First Contact and Until the End of the World, in addition to chapters on Eco-Apocalypse and new French sci-fi and New Manchester Ecstasy sci-fi. |