Retrofuturism is an art form, a philosophy but it’s found its way into film as a subgenre of science fiction. Think spacecraft and high technology mixed with mid 20th century 'values' like traditional gender roles and life before the civil rights act.

While sci-fi is horror’s nerdy sister, retro futurism is at odds with both of us in its conservatism and anti-progressive agenda.

So what are the elements of retrofuturism we need to look out for?

How is retrofuturism promoting a conservative mindset under the radar and how can we protect ourselves from becoming enamoured by its nostalgic aesthetic?

How are sci-fi movies with a mid 20th century vibe different from retrofuturism? And what’s the deal with sex work in the 'nostalgic future'?

In this episode we look at the implications of viewing the past as better than now and the dangers of believing that what's behind us is better than where we’re going. 

*This episode contains some spoilers for:

Spider Baby (1967)

Soylent Green (1973)

Cowboy Bebop [series] (2021)

Bladerunner (1982)

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Show info and more about your Horror Headmistress,

Ashe Woodward, at ⁠spookyscholars.com