Rebellions are built on hope. Narratives of resistance in science fiction cinema

Serious Topics

Science fiction rarely tells stories only about the future. The genre creates scenarios in which social conflicts, political power relations and alternative visions of the future are negotiated.Using selected film examples, this lecture examines how resistance is portrayed in science-fiction cinema: from uprisings against totalitarian regimes (Star Wars, The Hunger Games), through the struggle against technocratic control (Divergent), to resistance against surveillance, colonization and dehumanization (Blade Runner 2049, District 9, Elysium).Rebellion is presented not only as individual resistance, but also as a collective attempt to challenge existing power structures and develop alternative models of society. The lecture explores different forms of resistance – from heroic revolt and quiet sabotage to the reclaiming of memory and self-determination. At the same time, it demonstrates how cinematic techniques, futuristic cityscapes and dystopian visual worlds make political conflicts visible. Participants will become familiar with significant examples from film history and receive inspiration for analyzing films and film scenes in the classroom, fostering their learners’ critical media literacy, and addressing questions of democratic and political education. Lecture with film excerpts Collegial exchange