3. Science Fiction Genre - Star Wars
Science fiction has given us some of the most innovative gadgets, ominous creatures, exotic locales and engaging storylines of any genre. The fact that it can be as crazy as the writers imagination without needing to conform to historical accuracy or the restraints of reality is another reason that this particular branch of cinema has such a wide and long lasting appeal. Some are scary, some are funny, some have a political message to promote and some are just great uninterrupted fun but which is best? Due to the sheer variety of approaches that can be taken to the sci-fi genre, its incredibly difficult to pick just one example. Still, its indisputable that the Star Wars saga has made a definitive impact on cinema history and so this is where Ill place my vote. Released in 1977, Episode IV subverted stereotypical ideals straight out of the box, presenting itself as a tale told halfway through the main overarching story. From this, audiences knew immediately that there was a meta narrative to the series, a feature which undoubtedly piqued the interest of the viewers and which begged to be expanded upon, explored and explained. Then, as if to secure its place in history, from one of the earliest scenes the Galactic Empires strength is demonstrated through the introduction of the fanatical Darth Vader. Now a pop culture icon, Vader is feared and revered in equal measure as he struts around menacingly, choking people to death at will to the theme of the Imperial Death March. Heavily based on Second World War German commanders, Vader is an icon who will last far, far into the future... deservingly so, might I add. Furthermore, another feature which sets the Star Wars series apart from its competitors is the fact that, despite its low age rating, in some of the films the antagonists actually succeed. Another subversion of the norm, The Empire Strikes Back is perhaps my favourite of all six, followed quickly by Revenge of the Sith I guess I just find it refreshing to see the bad guys win for a change? On the opposing side, the Rebels have got some pretty charismatic and memorable characters as well; who could forget the vulnerable Luke Skywalker, the arrogant Han Solo, the wise mentor Yoda, the optimistic Qui Gon Jinn, the legendary Obi Wan Kenobi (especially when played by the irreplaceable Alec Guiness) or the gutsy Princess Leia? The struggle between the forces of good and evil plus the squabbles and camaraderie among the heroes is the real draw which makes these films worth watching. Obviously it makes sense to watch them in order, although if youve got time during an afternoon and one comes on TV, each one is worth a watch on its merits. Yes, I know. There are plenty of other sci-fi films that are just as good, if not better, than the Star Wars franchise. Still, as I said at the top of the article these are my personal favourites; if you have any additional titles that you want to add please let us know in the comments section!
Other top picks: Back to the Future, Alien, Star Trek, ET Click "next" below for the Comedy genre...