Science Fiction Double Feature: The Science Fiction Film as Cult Text

Cult cinema frequently crosses boundaries and combines disparate narrative formulas, character types, and conventions to create the almost surreal pleasure of their sudden juxtapositions or narrative combinations. This volume explores the largely unexplored relationship between science fiction and cult cinema, examining how the dual nature of science fiction aligns with the persistent double vision common to cult films. It brings together an international array of scholars to address key questions about the intersections of science fiction and cult cinema, such as how different genre elements, directors, and stars contribute to cult formation, what role fan activities play in cult development, and how the occulted or "bad" science fiction cult film works. The volume pursues these questions by addressing a variety of science fiction cult works, including Robot Monster (1953), Zardoz (1974), A Boy and His Dog (1975), Tetsuo: The Iron Man (1989), Space Truckers (1996), Ghost in the Shell 2 (2004), and Iron Sky (2012).

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 287 pages
Publication date: 02 February 2021
Publisher: Liverpool University Press

Cult cinema has a unique ability to transcend boundaries and blend different conventions, narrative formulas, and character types in surprising and captivating ways. This phenomenon is often celebrated for its ability to create surreal and unexpected juxtapositions, resulting in narrative combinations that are both fascinating and thought-provoking.

One genre that has played a significant role in the formation of cult cinema is science fiction (sf). With its own blend of science, fiction, reality, and fantasy, sf has the ability to blur the lines between different worlds and create unique and imaginative narratives. This double nature of sf has made it a perfect fit for cult cinema, as it allows for the exploration of unconventional and controversial themes that may not be accepted by mainstream audiences.

This volume aims to explore the largely unexplored relationship between science fiction and cult cinema. It brings together an international array of scholars to address key questions about the intersections of sf and cult cinema, such as how different genre elements, directors, and stars contribute to cult formation, what role fan activities, including "con" participation, play in cult development, and how the occulted or "bad" sf cult film works.

To pursue these questions, the volume examines a variety of sf cult works, including Robot Monster (1953), Zardoz (1974), A Boy and His Dog (1975), Tetsuo: The Iron Man (1989), Space Truckers (1996), Ghost in the Shell 2 (2004), and Iron Sky (2012). These essays provide a revealing vision of both the sf aspects of much cult film activity and the cultish aspects of the whole sf genre.

One of the key themes that emerges from the essays in this volume is the way that sf films have been able to subvert traditional genre expectations and challenge the status quo. Many cult films, such as Robot Monster and Zardoz, are considered to be "bad" or "low-budget" films, but they have gained a cult following due to their unique and innovative storytelling. These films often explore unconventional themes and ideas, such as the nature of humanity, the role of technology, and the consequences of scientific progress.

Another theme that is explored in the volume is the way that sf films have been able to tap into the collective unconscious of audiences. Many cult films have a surreal and dreamlike quality that allows viewers to connect with them on a deeper level, and they often deal with themes that are universal and relatable, such as the search for identity, the fear of the unknown, and the desire for power.

The essays in this volume also highlight the role that fan activities, including "con" participation, play in the cult development of sf films. Fans of these films often gather together to celebrate their love for the genre, participate in fan conventions, and create fan fiction and artwork. These activities not only contribute to the cultural legacy of the films but also help to create a sense of community and belonging among fans.

In conclusion, this volume provides a valuable contribution to the study of science fiction and cult cinema. It explores the unique relationship between these two genres and provides a wealth of insights into the ways that they intersect and influence each other. By bringing together an international array of scholars and examining a variety of sf cult works, the volume offers a revealing vision of both the sf aspects of much cult film activity and the cultish aspects of the whole sf genre.

Weight: 440g
Dimension: 155 x 233 x 23 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781800349049