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Science Fiction and Film Fanatics: Survival and Humanity's Struggle against the Unknown

The Geneva Public Library's Sci-Fi Book and Movie Club meets monthly to explore thought-provoking themes through the lens of both film and literature. Our meetings will feature a movie screening one month and a book discussion the next.

Featured movie - The Last Man on Earth (1964)

Additional Movies

  • The Martian (2015)

    • Synopsis: Stranded on Mars after a mission goes awry, astronaut Mark Watney must use his ingenuity and resilience to survive alone on the hostile planet, while NASA and international scientists work tirelessly to bring him home.
    • Themes: Survival against the unknown, human ingenuity, psychological resilience, and the collective effort of humanity.

  • Interstellar (2014)

    • Synopsis: In a future where Earth is becoming uninhabitable, a group of astronauts travels through a wormhole in search of a new home for humanity. The film explores themes of sacrifice, hope, and the resilience of the human spirit in the face of cosmic challenges.
    • Themes: Humanity's struggle against unknown cosmic forces, survival of the species, emotional resilience, and the hope for a better future.

  • Gravity (2013)

    • Synopsis: After a catastrophic accident leaves two astronauts stranded in space, they must rely on their skills and perseverance to survive and find a way back to Earth. The film highlights the psychological and physical challenges of surviving in the void of space.
    • Themes: Survival in an extreme and hostile environment, psychological resilience, fear and vulnerability, and the drive to overcome overwhelming odds.

General Themes for Discussion

Survival and Humanity's Struggle Against the Unknown

 In our first meeting of the Science Fiction and Film Fanatics program, we will explore the themes of hope and resilience, focusing on humanity's struggle against the unknown. Register in August to watch the movie and in September for the book discussion.

General Themes for Discussion:

  • Adaptation and Evolution: We'll delve into how characters adapt and evolve in response to their challenges, highlighting the resourcefulness and creativity required for survival.

  • Psychological and Emotional Tolls: Our discussions will cover survival's psychological and emotional impacts, examining how characters cope with trauma and loss while maintaining their will to survive.

  • Survival Strategies and Realism: We'll evaluate the survival strategies and skills depicted in various narratives, discussing their realism and applicability to real-world scenarios.

  • Isolation, Fear, and Vulnerability: The themes of isolation, fear, and vulnerability will be analyzed to understand how they contribute to the tension and suspense of survival stories.

  • Insights into Human Nature: Finally, we'll reflect on the insights these stories provide about human nature, perseverance, and the indomitable will to survive against all odds.

Join us as we embark on this journey of exploration and discovery, examining the enduring spirit of hope and resilience that defines some of the most compelling narratives in science fiction and film.