Science Fiction:

X-men – First Class: (12)

This is science fiction film about mutants. This is the prequel to the X-Men series. In some ways, it does not follow the conventional pattern of sci-fi films. The film ends on a cliff hanger. There are not many main characters who are antagonists in this film. The conflict and fight scenes in the film just arises from differences of opinion between characters. The film is based around true events, however it is put into the sci-fi category because it involves mutants.

The cinematography in this film is unique & there are lots of scenes which involve cross-cutting in the build up to the fighting scenes.

However the antagonists do tend to wear slightly darker clothes. Most of the film is all based in one location – e.g. the build up to the battle scenes & climax.

 

Incredibles: (animation/CGI) (U)

The Incredibles is a very stereotypical superhero movie. In most superhero films, such as this one, there is suspenseful music – non-diagetic sound, in the action scenes. There are also stereotypical superpowers e.g. invisibility, super strength & super speed.

 There is a main ‘super-villain’ antagonist as well. The main superheroes wear very bright colour e.g. yellow & red, but in contrast with this, the super-villain antagonist wears mainly black (and a cape!)

There is lots of action in this film & it follows the conventional storyline pattern of sci-fi , superhero films. For example, the build up to the battle at the end.

There are also visual effects (CGI) used to create more suspense with fantastical sound effects (sci-fi) to make the film more realistic & enjoyable.

 

District 9: (15)

This film is set in South Africa & has many CGI effects including live action. It is a sci-fi film, however it is presented in a type of documentary format, e.g. as if you were viewing the film through a video camera. The film does follow the general codes of sci-fi films, however it has a unique & original storyline. It also contains clever usage of diagetic sound e.g. the alien dialogue/language.

Again, in this film I do not think there are any antagonists or protagonists because the aliens and human both have opposing opinions.

 

Avatar: (12)

This film is mixed with live action & CGI. It could be argued that this film belongs to the ‘war’ genre because the avatars are fighting against the destruction of their planet – ‘Pandora.’

Avatar is a conventional sci-fi film, set in space. I think it has an original but predictable storyline.

The film uses lots of non-diagetic sound to engage the audience & keep them in suspense. The colour pallet in the film in general is very bright with over-exaggerated colours.