Dystopian Film Conventions A - Z

Alien invasion

Chaotic world where genetics have created a new rampant disease, chemical weapons e.g. chlorine gas, citizens under constant surveillance, cyber-genetic technology

Dehumanisation

End of the world, entertainment i.e. gladiators, experiments that have gone wrong

Fear of the outside world, feeling trapped, figure worshipped by citizens

Generally a lot rubbish in scenes along with dust, wrecked buildings, abandoned cars etc.

History repeating itself, Humanity dividing into groups for survival, humans living like animals, humanity no longer being fertile

Imprisonment

Man made objects or animals (e.g. apes) taking on human characteristics, monsters or unknown creatures

Post-apocalyptic environments, propaganda used to control society

Radioactivity, restricted freedom, robotic characters

Struggling escape

Technology used to control society, themes of emptiness and darkness, totalitarian governments

Uprisings against government

Widespread urban violence