This module explores the cultural function and representations of science fiction in film, television and radio. From the beginnings of cinema going back to the work of Georges Melies, there has been an enduring fascination with space travel and the future. From the Radio dramas of Orson Welles to Hollywood and contemporary television there is a long and rich history of media dealing with such thematic concerns and the genre has been a source of fascination and debate not only within the industry but with scholars and audiences alike. This module will explore some of the issues and representations that science fiction engages with in terms of virtual reality, urban and moral decay, time travel, cyborgs and the apocalypse.

1 PORTFOLIO 3000 WORDS weighted at 100% [Learning Outcomes 1-4]

The portfolio will contain an analytical essay and biography/bibliography research project.

Key Information Set Data:
100% Coursework

Access lectures and seminars, view films and TV programmes, read a number of selected texts, research, collate information and material in the context of the compilation of the dossier.

Participate in seminar discussion relating to individual topics.

Tutors offer advice, feedback and questions relating to lectures and screenings and readings.

Key Information Set Data:
32% scheduled L&T activities
68% guided independent learning

LIBRARY, BLACKBOARD, INTERNET, FILMS, TELEVISION, MEDIA LAB., FT
The Blackboard virtual learning environment will be available (where relevant) to support this module. Details will be supplied in the module handbook.

Chapman, J. (2013) Inside the TARDIS, London: I. B. Tauris.
Chapman, J. & Cull, N. (2013) Projecting Tomorrow, London: I. B. Tauris.
Cook, J. & Wright, P. (eds) (2005) British Science Fiction Television, London: I. B. Tauris.
Grant, B. (2013) 100 Science Fiction Films, Basingstoke: Palgrave Macmillan/BFI.
Telotte, J. P. (2014) Science Fiction TV, London: Routledge.

See module handbook for a full listing of reading texts.