Writing Science-Fiction Movies

Science-Fiction is a very philosophical genre. Together with Fantasy and Horror it belongs to the genre family of Speculative Fiction. Critics often consider it to be trivial entertainment, when exactly the opposite is true: Science-Fiction as a genre is very rich and complex. It shows a possible future development of human civilization and can be divided into Utopias and Dystopias.

The Fiction within Science-Fiction

Science-Fiction (abbreviated to Sci-Fi, SciFi or SF) encapsulates the largest world of all genres. Not only the entire universe, but all conceivable universes, yes the entire Multiverse, can be found here. The want of the main character is to explore the tools of a speculative world. Anyone who writes Science-Fiction should be careful that their story doesn’t get “too far out there”. The world needs to be in some way a reflection of our contemporary world so that the audience can form an emotional connection to what’s happening. On another note, the technology should be necessary to the plot of the story, otherwise you might get something like THE COMING DAYS – A Future Drama, but not a real Science-Fiction Movie.

The only cinematic Science-Fiction brand that exists in Germany is RAUMPATROUILLE ORION. Interestingly enough, it was created at the same time as the original STAR TREK. Both are based on the Science-Fiction classic FORBIDDEN PLANET from 1956.

Serious Science-Fiction Movies

This genre focuses on human evolution and the question of how we want to shape our society.

• RAUMPATROUILLE ORION
• FORBIDDEN PLANET
• STAR TREK II: THE WRATH OF KHAN
• INTERSTELLAR

Sci-Fi Parodies

Science fiction comedies are usually always parodies, which don’t just tell a funny story in a sci-fi setting, but rather poke fun at the tropes of the genre.

• (T)RAUMSCHIFF SURPRISE – PERIODE 1
• SPACEBALLS
• GALAXY QUEST
• GUARDIANS OF THE GALAXY

Sven Eric

A few words about me: As a Writer-Director, I write my own stories. I wrote the eBook The Ultimate Reading Guide for students as a learning aid. I also give Writing Seminars and Film Workshops.