Dune (1965) is a timeless classic

Hello readers! I finally got around to reading Frank Herbert’s Dune. Not sure why it took me so long, as I’ve been curious about the book for as long as I can remember. It is so well-known, so well-loved, and so well-integrated into the public imagination that most of us have felt its influence, either … Continue reading Dune (1965) is a timeless classic →

Science fiction and the future: Part one

Hello readers! I’ve been pondering the science fiction genre again – specifically, science fiction stories which are set in our universe, with some connection to our world. I haven’t done a thorough survey, but I get the impression that most science fiction falls into this category, rather than being pure science fantasy. And within this … Continue reading Science fiction and the future: Part one →

Clayton Calculates: Sandworm locomotion

Hello readers! Last week saw the release of Dune: Part Two in cinemas, and all the buzz around giant sandworms got me wondering – how do they move around? I’ll admit, I haven’t actually seen the film yet (partly because I’ve been too busy watching videos of actual earthworms), and so I’m working with what … Continue reading Clayton Calculates: Sandworm locomotion →

Film review: Rebel Moon – Part One: A Child of Fire

Hello readers! This review has been brewing for a while. I watched Rebel Moon – Part One soon after it released in late December, and the film has been lingering in my mind for all the wrong reasons. Let me be clear from the outset: Rebel Moon – Part One is not a good film. … Continue reading Film review: Rebel Moon – Part One: A Child of Fire →

What is science fiction? Part two: a discussion

Hello readers! Welcome to part two of my attempt to define science fiction. Last week I gave a brief history of the genre and mentioned some very old stories that have each been labelled “the first science fiction” by various academics. This week we will delve a bit deeper and explore the dividing line between … Continue reading What is science fiction? Part two: a discussion →