Bachelor Thesis from the year 2012 in the subject Art - History of Art; grade: 2.1; ; language: English; abstract: Science fiction is always political as it has the power to stage contemporary problems through the lens of impossible events; it imagines theoretical futures out of present issues. The essay will compare the use of science fiction in cinema in the USSR and the United States of the late 1950s and 1960s to coincide with the period of de-Stalinisation and thaw in the USSR; and late McCarthyism in the United States. The genre provides an opportunity to express the scientific stand-off between the two powers through fiction; it is also a vehicle for dissemination of ideas and propaganda. Post-1956; when the period of de-Stalinisation officially began; science fiction saw a carefully crafted rebirth as a tool to reflect the socialist ideal and quasi-religious faith in science promoted by the Party. Science fiction uniquely demands for an imaginative view of the future; which corresponds with the Marxist- Leninist future-oriented ideology. The fear of external influence from the enemy for both countries results in heavily ideological cinema; especially in the sci-fi genre as an imagined reflection of contemporary issues onto a fictional future. The themes for American science fiction of this period are hyperbolised monsters and invasion; which reflect the fear of the otherness of the Soviet Union and its threat on domestic ideals. Soviet science fiction films focus on the heroic Soviet man; who frequently receives calls for help from outer space and overcomes great trials to save those not living in utopia.
#3038654 in eBooks 2013-09-02 2013-09-02File Name: B00ET1DFBW
Review
0 of 0 people found the following review helpful. Just what I was looking for...By D. H. SempeckThe not totally authourized "Authourized" history of CH (with nice pre-histories of the band members and Split Enz). It sets the order and details of Crowded House. As they werent as dwelled on in the US after the first album; I didnt have a good grasp on the band outside of getting the albums/CDs and loving the music. This book allowed me to re-live and learn what the band was going through and shooting for while record and touring. I got a better understanding of Paul Hester (a drummer I aspired to be) and his inner workings and demons. This will make you want to go back and listen to everything again (I did) to get the feelings these great albums gave to me back when I (and to few of my friends) first adored them. Sometimes I get to come from behind the drumkit at shows and surprise the crowd by playing solo versions of Dont Dream Its Over (which they know and love) or Better Be Home Soon (which few know but always gets a great response). This book reiterated that my not-so-popular devotion to this band was well worth it.2 of 2 people found the following review helpful. Great read for fans and those curious about making records back in the dayBy JimEddieI give 5 stars because I am a huge CH and all-things-Finn fan; but lesser fans may not find it as absorbing.However; apart from the focus on the sad yet glorious career; it is an insiders look at the torturous record business before it collapsed.The author has an interesting line somewhere about music has to be somewhat mediocre to be big in America (I am paraphrasing).As an American i could not agree more; at least since the 70s and the total disintegration by the 90s. There are great artists in America for sure; but blockbuster success is reserved for the ear (and eye) candy; here-today gone tomorrow performers. But of course; we no longer live in the age of the artist. Thank God we can always turn to the Finns for an escape.2 of 2 people found the following review helpful. Something So ExcellentBy BlairI started reading this book not expecting much beyond a regurgitation of other peoples work and a few personal anecdotes by the author attempting to put himself in the frame with his subject. What I discovered is possibly THE definitive telling of the life and times of Crowded House. A must-read not only for fans but also for anyone interested in the history of late 20th century pop music. Check it out!