Existential Science Fiction

The book explores how contemporary science fiction media presents a vision of the future that is inextricably tied to an exploration of humanity that is more contemplative and comparative than traditional science fiction. It is useful for scholars of media studies, film studies, television studies, genre studies, and philosophy.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 170 pages
Publication date: 15 September 2023
Publisher: Lexington Books

This captivating book delves into the realm of contemporary existential science fiction media, encompassing a wide range of forms such as film, television, and video games. It explores the profound impact these mediums have on society's perceptions of memory, identity, and humanity. At the forefront of this exploration is Ryan Lizardi, who argues that a recent cluster of science fiction media, including notable titles like Gravity (2013), Interstellar (2014), Legion (2017-2019), Westworld (2016-present), Soma (2015), and Death Standing (2019), among others, presents a vision of the future that is intricately linked to a more contemplative and comparative exploration of humanity.

What sets this trend apart is its existential nature, which intertwines with the genre's ability to manifest abstract concepts in a generic environment that traditionally focuses on new frontiers and ideas. This fusion creates a powerful set of media texts that invite audiences to engage in deep contemplation about the essence of existence, thought, and human connection. Scholars from various fields, including media studies, film studies, television studies, genre studies, and philosophy, will find this book invaluable in their pursuit of understanding the complexities of these media forms.

In the first chapter, the book establishes a theoretical framework for analyzing the existential dimensions of science fiction media. It explores the concept of "existentialism," which emphasizes the individual's existence, freedom, and responsibility for their choices and actions. The chapter also introduces the idea of "existential science fiction," which combines the existentialist themes with the genre's traditional focus on science, technology, and futuristic scenarios.

The subsequent chapters delve into the specific works mentioned earlier, exploring how they present a vision of the future that is deeply intertwined with an exploration of humanity. Each chapter analyzes the themes, characters, and narrative structures of these media texts, highlighting how they engage with existential questions and offer unique perspectives on the human condition.

For instance, in Chapter 2, the book examines the film Gravity, directed by Alfonso Cuarón. It explores how the film depicts a space mission gone awry, forcing the protagonist, Sandra Bullock, to confront her own mortality and the fragility of human existence. The chapter analyzes the themes of isolation, fear, and the search for meaning in a world where survival is the ultimate goal.

Chapter 3 takes a closer look at the television series Legion, created by Noah Hawley. It explores the concept of superpowers and their impact on individuals and society. The chapter analyzes the character of David Haller, a mutant with telekinetic abilities, and how he grapples with his identity and the responsibilities that come with his powers.

Chapter 4 examines the video game Soma, developed by Frictional Games. It explores the themes of consciousness, identity, and the nature of reality. The chapter analyzes the gameplay mechanics and how they contribute to the player's emotional journey and understanding of the game's world.

Throughout the book, Lizardi draws on a wide range of theoretical frameworks, including existentialism, posthumanism, and critical theory, to provide a comprehensive analysis of the existential dimensions of science fiction media. He also incorporates insights from philosophy, psychology, and cultural studies to deepen our understanding of the human experience and its relationship with technology and the future.

In conclusion, this book offers a groundbreaking exploration of the existential dimensions of contemporary science fiction media. It provides a rich and nuanced understanding of how these mediums engage with fundamental questions about existence, identity, and humanity. By analyzing a selection of notable works, the book offers valuable insights for scholars, researchers, and enthusiasts alike. As we navigate the rapidly evolving landscape of media and technology, this book serves as a timely reminder of the importance of contemplating the human condition and the potential for meaningful connections in a world that is constantly changing.

Weight: 277g
Dimension: 231 x 154 x 11 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781793647375