Why Are Modern Sci-Fi Movies Missing the Mark?

Several factors contribute to the current deficiency in contemporary sci-fi movies, which often lack a sense of wonder, real science, or a genuine exploration of the future. While sci-fi films utilize fantastic elements, they frequently fall short in delivering immersive and believable stories. This article delves into the shortcomings and explores how these movies can regain their former glory.

A Lack of Real Science in Sci-Fi

Although some sci-fi movies incorporate real scientific concepts, it is often superficial. For instance, in the film 'Lucy,' the portrayal of scientific ideas is confined to a brief, unfulfilling climax. The movie’s ending, where the lead character becomes a USB repository of all knowledge, is confusing and implausible. It raises questions such as how the universe’s vast and complex knowledge can fit into a single USB drive. Indeed, films like 'Lucy' miss the mark by not integrating real scientific concepts more substantially throughout the narrative.

The Future Needs More Believability

Another frequent flaw in modern sci-fi movies is a lack of cultural and attitudinal depth. Characters in these movies often act as if they are representatives of North America or Europe, 2021. This is perceived as unrealistic for characters just a few hundred years from our current era, and hundreds of light-years from Earth. There should be a significant transformation in human society and culture, driven by technological advances, galactic exploration, and interactions with intelligent life. The movies often fail to portray this evolution, leaving the alien elements unconvincing and unengaging.

Great Stories Are Missing

Sci-fi was once celebrated for its rich narratives and groundbreaking storytelling. Classics like 'Stranger in a Strange Land,' 'Childhood's End,' and 'The Martian Chronicles' showcased the genre’s potential to explore both the perils and promises of scientific progress. Sadly, the standard has declined since then. George Lucas, despite his talent for creating visually stunning films, lacks a deep understanding of storytelling. His 'Star Wars' series, while entertaining, often features trite and formulaic storytelling, leaving little room for deep exploration and thematic richness.

Stanley Kubrick's collaboration with Arthur C. Clarke on '2001: A Space Odyssey' is a prime example of the synergy between literature and film, resulting in a masterpiece. On the contrary, Lucas’s approach to storytelling is far less sophisticated. His focus lies more on visual effects and blockbuster appeal rather than delving into the complexities of the narrative.

A Need for a Sense of Fun

Lastly, many modern sci-fi movies lack a sense of fun and playfulness. This is a significant drawback, as humor and lightheartedness add depth and enjoyment to the viewing experience. Films like the original 'Star Wars' trilogy and the works of director Paul Verhoeven, such as 'RoboCop' and 'Total Recall,' maintain a joyful tone that resonates with audiences. In contrast, remakes like 'RoboCop' and 'Total Recall' often fall flat, as they fail to capture the liveliness of their original counterparts. On the positive side, the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) films and movies like 'Interstellar' and 'The Martian' balance entertainment with serious themes successfully. However, the absence of the classic sense of fun in many sci-fi films is a notable gap in the genre.

Conclusion

Sci-fi movies have the potential to be groundbreaking, intellectually engaging, and entertaining. By focusing on real science, believable portrayal of the future, and a genuine sense of fun, filmmakers can create stories that not only captivate but also inspire. Whether through deeper scientific exploration, cultural evolution, or the reintroduction of humor, modern sci-fi films must reclaim their legacy and once again deliver the sense of wonder that made them great in the first place.

References

- Vonnegut, K. (1961). "Slaughterhouse-Five"- Bradbury, R. (1953). "The Martian Chronicles"- Clarke, A. C., Kubrick, S. (1968). "2001: A Space Odyssey"- Lucas, G. (1977). "Star Wars"- Verhoeven, P. (1987). "RoboCop"- Verhoeven, P. (1990). "Total Recall"- McCardell, G. (2007). "Guardians of the Galaxy