Journey Through Sci-Fi - podcast cover

Journey Through Sci-Fi

Journey Through Sci-Fi is the ultimate podcast for sci-fi and film lovers! Join hosts James and Matt as they explore the best in science fiction films and TV shows, from AI and dystopias to space operas and more. Each episode dives deep into the themes, secrets, and cultural impact of classic and modern sci-fi, delivered with plenty of personality and insight. Whether you're a die-hard fan or new to the genre, join us for entertaining discussions and thought-provoking commentary. Plus, you can get exclusive bonus episodes on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/JourneyThroughSciFi
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Episodes

Artificial Intelligence: Intimate AIs (Ex Machina & Her)

In this week's episode, we explore Ex Machina (2014) and Her (2013), two films that really make us question what’s inside the minds of A.I. We explore how these movies blur the boundaries between human and machine, challenging our perceptions and leaving us wondering what's really in there. Join us as we unpack the deeper layers of these thought-provoking films and explore the profound questions they raise about the future of A.I. and humanity. CONTAINS FILM SPOILERS Visit our website https://ww...

Dec 12, 20191 hr 32 minSeason 1Ep. 15

Artificial Intelligence: AI Revolutions on TV (Battlestar Galactica & Westworld)

In this episode, we dive into the fascinating portrayal of AI in two of the most iconic TV series: Battlestar Galactica (2004) and Westworld (2016). Joined by special guest Rhianna Dhillon, we explore how these shows delve into the complex relationships between humans and AI, and the ethical questions that arise when artificial intelligence becomes nearly indistinguishable from humanity. From the Cylons’ search for identity in Battlestar Galactica to the hosts’ fight for autonomy in Westworld , ...

Dec 05, 20191 hr 43 minSeason 1Ep. 14

Artificial Intelligence: Love and Androids (Uncanny & Zoe)

In this episode, we dive into the intriguing and emotional theme of robots falling in love, as depicted in the indie sci-fi films Uncanny (2015) and Zoe (2018). We explore whether artificial intelligence can truly experience emotions, particularly love, and what that means for the future of human-A.I. relationships. Join us as we discuss the emotional depth of these stories and ponder the ethical questions they raise about love and technology. CONTAINS FILM SPOILERS Visit our website https://www...

Nov 28, 20191 hr 16 minSeason 1Ep. 13

Artificial Intelligence: Rogue AI Experiments (The Machine & Kill Command)

In this week's episode, we tackle the theme of hostile takeovers in the world of artificial intelligence as portrayed in British indie films. We discuss The Machine (2013) by Caradog W. James and Kill Command (2016) by Steven Gomez, two films that explore the dangers of A.I. turning against its creators. Join us as we analyse how these films depict the dark side of A.I. and the implications of these chilling, independent visions of the future. CONTAINS FILM SPOILERS Visit our website https://www...

Nov 21, 20191 hr 12 minSeason 1Ep. 12

Artificial Intelligence: Human–Machine Synergy (RoboCop & Upgrade)

In this week's episode, James and Matt explore the idea of synchronization between man and machine as they discuss two films where the lines between robot and human are blurred. They take a look at Paul Verhoeven's satirical sci-fi classic Robocop (1987) and Leigh Whannell's body horror-filled Upgrade (2018). Through these films, they examine what happens when humans and machines start to merge, questioning where the human ends and the machine begins. Join us as we delve into the ethical, existe...

Nov 14, 20191 hr 19 minSeason 1Ep. 11

Artificial Intelligence: Robot Ethics and Laws (I, Robot & Automata)

We explore Isaac Asimov’s famous Three Laws of Robotics and their influence on the sci-fi films I, Robot (2004) and Automata (2014). Asimov’s laws were designed to ensure robots serve and protect humanity, but these films challenge whether those rules are sufficient as artificial intelligence evolves. We dive into the ethical dilemmas and potential loopholes these laws present when robots gain autonomy. Join us as we discuss the continued relevance of Asimov’s vision in the age of advanced A.I. ...

Nov 14, 20191 hr 19 minSeason 1Ep. 10

Bomus Episode: Terminator: Dark Fate

In a special bonus episode of the podcast James & Matt discuss Terminator: Dark Fate (2019) the continuation to James Cameron's Terminator saga from Deadpool director Tim Miller.

Nov 07, 20191 hr 4 min

Artificial Intelligence: The “Pinocchio” Problem (Bicentennial Man & A.I.)

In this episode, we delve into the "Pinocchio Effect" as seen in Bicentennial Man (1999) and A.I. Artificial Intelligence (2001). Both films explore the profound question of whether a robot can truly become human—emotionally, morally, and socially. Join us as we explore the emotional and philosophical journeys of these robotic protagonists in their quest for humanity. CONTAINS FILM SPOILERS Visit our website https://www.journeythroughscifi.com/ Email Us! Follow us on TWITTER Add us on INSTAGRAM ...

Oct 31, 20191 hr 40 minSeason 1Ep. 9

Artificial Intelligence: Ecology & AI (Silent Running & WALL-E)

We explore how two beloved sci-fi films, Silent Running (1972) and Wall-E (2008), make us feel deep compassion for robots. We examine how these stories use robots to reflect human qualities, ask ethical questions, and inspire empathy. Join us as we dive into the heartwarming and thought-provoking portrayals of A.I. in these cinematic gems. CONTAINS FILM SPOILERS Visit our website https://www.journeythroughscifi.com/ Email Us! Follow us on TWITTER Add us on INSTAGRAM Like us on FACEBOOK Follow us...

Oct 24, 20191 hr 32 minSeason 1Ep. 8

Artificial Intelligence: Early Digital Worlds (Alphaville & Tron)

We explore the contrasting visions of artificial intelligence in Alphaville (1965) and Tron (1982). These films tackle the idea of A.I. in control, from the dystopian, emotionless world of Alphaville , ruled by a supercomputer, to the digital frontier of Tron , where A.I. dictates the rules of an entire virtual universe. Join us as we examine the risks and potential of A.I. governance through these iconic sci-fi films. CONTAINS FILM SPOILERS Visit our website https://www.journeythroughscifi.com/...

Oct 17, 20191 hr 29 minSeason 1Ep. 7

Bonus Episode: What Lies Beyond the Stars? (Ad Astra)

In this episode, we dive deep into Ad Astra , the visually stunning and thought-provoking space epic that explores the farthest reaches of the galaxy and the depths of the human soul. We discuss the film's central questions, like "What lies beyond the stars?" and "How far will we go to find ourselves?" as we unpack the journey of Roy McBride, played by Brad Pitt, on his mission to uncover the truth about his father and the limits of human exploration. Join us as we explore the existential themes...

Oct 10, 20191 hr 12 min

Artificial Intelligence: Cyberpunk Threats (Ghost in the Shell & The Matrix)

We explore how two of the most influential sci-fi films of the 90s, Ghost in the Shell (1995) and The Matrix (1999), tapped into the anxieties surrounding the approaching Y2K era. As the world faced uncertainty about technology's future, these films portrayed AI as both a powerful force and a potential threat. We delve into how these cinematic masterpieces captured the essence of 90s tech fears and questioned the implications of artificial intelligence on humanity. Join us as we unpack the cultu...

Oct 03, 20191 hr 56 minSeason 1Ep. 6

Artificial Intelligence: When AI Turns Deadly (Demon Seed)

We dive into the eerie intersection of sci-fi and horror with Mike Muncer, taking a close look at Demon Seed (1977). How do these genres blend to create chilling narratives, and why do they work so well together? Join us as we explore the creepy connections between sci-fi and horror in this episode! CONTAINS FILM SPOILERS Visit our website https://www.journeythroughscifi.com/ Email Us! Follow us on TWITTER Like us on FACEBOOK Follow us on LETTERBOXD...

Sep 26, 20191 hr 30 minSeason 1Ep. 5

Artificial Intelligence: Cold War Tech & Comedy (Wargames & Short Circuit)

We’re heading back to the 80s with Short Circuit (1986) and Wargames (1983) to find out if these movies have kept their nostalgic charm or if they’re stuck in a time warp. Let’s see how well they’ve aged! We explore how the films reflect the Cold War era’s fears and fascination with technology and discuss whether their depictions of AI and technological threats remain relevant today. Join us as we continue our journey through A.I on screen. CONTAINS FILM SPOILERS Visit our website https://www.jo...

Sep 19, 20191 hr 18 minSeason 1Ep. 4

Artificial Intelligence: Man vs. Machine (Terminator 1 & 2)

We explore the ultimate battle between humanity and artificial intelligence as depicted in The Terminator (1984) and Terminator 2: Judgment Day (1991). We examine how these movies portray the escalating conflict between man and machine, the ethical dilemmas posed by AI, and the broader implications for our future. Join us as we continue our journey through the evolution of AI in sci-fi, where survival hangs in the balance. CONTAINS FILM SPOILERS Visit our website https://www.journeythroughscifi....

Sep 12, 20191 hr 54 minSeason 1Ep. 3

Artificial Intelligence: Early AI Visions (The Day the Earth Stood Still & 2001)

We delve into the portrayal of artificial intelligence as a faceless, omnipotent force in two classic sci-fi films: 2001: A Space Odyssey (1968) and The Day The Earth Stood Still (1951). We explore how these films depict AI not as humanoid entities, but as cold, impersonal machines that wield immense power over humanity. From HAL 9000’s chilling precision in 2001 to the mysterious robot Gort in The Day The Earth Stood Still , this episode examines the unsettling influence of faceless machines an...

Sep 05, 20191 hr 46 minSeason 1Ep. 2

Artificial Intelligence: Robots & Replicants (Metropolis & Blade Runner)

In the first official episode of Journey Through Sci-Fi, we explore the futuristic worlds of Metropolis (1927) and Blade Runner (1982). Focusing on their iconic cityscapes and AI depictions, we discuss how these films envision the future, reflecting both society’s hopes, and fears. Join us as we embark on a journey into the world of Artificial Intelligence in Sci-Fi, exploring its history across film and television. CONTAINS FILM SPOILERS Please make sure you've watched these two films before li...

Aug 29, 20191 hr 45 minSeason 1Ep. 1

What is Sci-Fi? Exploring the Origins of Artificial Intelligence

In this first introduction episode James and Matt talk about some of their favourite Sci-Fi films, what first got them into the genre and ask the question what exactly is Sci-Fi? Visit our website https://www.journeythroughscifi.com/ Email Us! Follow us on TWITTER Like us on FACEBOOK Follow us on LETTERBOXD...

Aug 22, 201959 min
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