The Sci Fi Guys

Episode 011 - The Martian (2015)

Episode 010 - Close Encounters of the Third Kind (1977)

I mean, what is there to say? This week we dive into Paul Verhoven’s franchise spawning classic Robocop. We explored each of the really obvious questions, like “could he beat up the terminator”, “why does he shoot that man’s genitalia” and “does anyone else think Robocop is just a touch too camp?”. It’s not particularly original stuff, but it’s entertaining, I’ll tell you that much!

This week we dive head first into some classic 1970s dystopian madness. Logan’s Run is a film with a title that precedes it, but seriously, have you seen it? I’ll give you twenty quid if you can tell me what the hell is happening here. What am I supposed to take from this? Is this supposed to be entertaining, or should I feel frightened that this might happen, because it won’t? I’m not sure what to do with this, all I know is that I will hopefully go to my grave having never seen this thing again. Starting Michael York and Jenny Agutter.

This week we dig into something a little more grounded. Ironically it’s a film that is set hundreds of miles above the earth’s surface! Alfonzo Cuaron’s Gravity is a visual masterpiece, recreating the experience of being perilously trapped in the earths orbit. It stars Hollywood titans George Cloony and Sandra Bullock, but does that mean it’s any good? There’s only one way to find out! Tune in to this week’s episode of The Sci Fi Guys!

This week we discuss Joe Cornish’s Attack The Block, a film that combines a slick depiction of modern(ish) London with a healthy dose of comedy sci fi!

Neil Blomkamp’s 2009 District 9 reimagines what first contact with an alien species might look like, and trust us, it isn’t pretty. The film portrays the significant economical issues that arise when over a million alien bodies show up in Johannesburg South Africa in what is at first a mockumentary style, and then it quickly shifts gear to all out sci fi action. Incredibly reflective and frighteningly real, District 9 is for my money, an absolute sci fi classic.

EPISODE 004 - THE FIFTH ELEMENT - IS LIVE!!! In a tremendous display of poor forward planning, episode 4 sees us tackle The Fifth Element, a film which is as impressively inventive as it is devoid of narrative cohesion. Created during the era of gigantic budget non-franchise films, TFE blurs the lines between sci-fi and comedy, and it boasts an incredible cast to boot. Shape shifting aliens, intense space battles and some of the coolest costume designs you’ll ever likely see come together to create a fast paced, thoroughly enjoyable viewing experience… or so you would think. If you haven’t seen this film this decade, I’d urge you to check it out again before you start throwing your hate comments at us this week! Find us on Spotify and Apple Podcasts!

This week we take on what will be one of many Paul Verhoeven directed sci fi films when we burrow deep into 1997’s Starship Troopers!

In part 2 of our triumphant return to podcasting, we dissect Terminator 2: Judgement Day, arguably one of the only franchises in which the sequel so vastly outperforms the original!

In this first episode we explore James Cameron’s seminal sci fi slasher (maybe?) The Terminator! The Terminator (1984): A Timeless Sci-Fi Classic Introduction Released in 1984, The Terminator has become a cornerstone of science fiction cinema, blending futuristic technology with relentless action. Directed by James Cameron, this iconic film introduced audiences to an unforgettable story and characters that continue to resonate today. Let’s explore why The Terminator remains a must-watch and its enduring impact on pop culture. The Plot: A Battle Across Time The Terminator follows Sarah Connor, an unsuspecting waitress who becomes the target of a relentless cyborg assassin, the Terminator, sent from the future. The Terminator’s mission is to kill Sarah to prevent her unborn son, John Connor, from leading a human resistance against machines. A soldier from the future, Kyle Reese, is sent to protect her, leading to a thrilling chase that spans Los Angeles. Iconic Characters and Performances • Arnold Schwarzenegger as the Terminator: Arnold Schwarzenegger’s portrayal of the emotionless, unstoppable Terminator is one of the most iconic in film history. His catchphrase, “I’ll be back,” has become synonymous with his career and the film itself. • Linda Hamilton as Sarah Connor: Linda Hamilton’s transformation from a vulnerable waitress to a determined survivor laid the groundwork for one of the most compelling character arcs in cinema. • Michael Biehn as Kyle Reese: Michael Biehn’s performance as the determined and resilient soldier adds depth and humanity to the high-stakes narrative. Cinematic Innovations James Cameron’s direction, combined with Stan Winston’s groundbreaking special effects, brought The Terminator to life in a way that captivated audiences. The film’s blend of practical effects and early CGI set new standards for the genre. Brad Fiedel’s haunting and memorable score also played a crucial role in creating the film’s intense and suspenseful atmosphere. Cultural Impact and Legacy • Franchise Expansion: The Terminator spawned multiple sequels, television series, and comic books, expanding its universe and exploring its complex timeline. • Influence on Sci-Fi and Action Genres: The film’s themes of artificial intelligence, time travel, and dystopian futures have influenced countless movies, TV shows, and books. • Enduring Popularity: Decades after its release, The Terminator remains a favorite among sci-fi enthusiasts and continues to attract new fans, solidifying its place as a timeless classic. Conclusion The Terminator is more than just a movie; it’s a cultural phenomenon that has left an indelible mark on the science fiction genre. Its compelling story, unforgettable characters, and innovative effects make it a film that stands the test of time. Whether you’re a long-time fan or a newcomer to the series, The Terminator is a must-watch that showcases the best of 1980s cinema and continues to inspire new generations.