Aliens R Us: The Other in Science Fiction Cinema - Softcover

Softcover

ISBN 10: 0745315399 ISBN 13: 9780745315393

Publisher: Pluto Press, 2002

Synopsis

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.

About this title

About the Author

Ziauddin Sardar is a writer, broadcaster and cultural critic. The author and editor of numerous books, he is Visiting Professor of Postcolonial Studies at The City University, London, and contributes regularly to the New Statesman.

Edition details

• Publisher: Pluto Press
• Publication date: 2002
• Language: English
• ISBN 10: 0745315399
• ISBN 13: 9780745315393
• Binding: Paperback
• Number of pages: 192
• Editor: Sardar Ziauddin, Cubitt Sean