Television Show The Orville and the Intersection of Reality and Science Fiction
The television show The Orville through its classically encubed mise en scene showcases a blend of science fiction and real-world elements. The question arises: at what point does realism impact the authenticity of the genre? This essay delves into the intersection of reality and science fiction, using The Orville as a prime example, and reflects on how modern technology has altered our perception of what is real.
A Journey Through Time: From Fantasy to Reality
Science fiction has always had a unique relationship with reality. It often predicts future technologies and societal changes, but sometimes, it becomes an accurate depiction of the present. As a Seoer at Google, I can attest to this phenomenon firsthand. My generation has seen firsthand how science fiction often becomes reality, transforming our daily lives.
From Non-Existent to Everyday
As a child, my world was filled with horse-drawn vehicles, radio entertainment, and radio wrist communicators. Monoplanes and open-cockpit aircraft were all I could dream of. My family had a car with a V8 engine producing 60 horsepower, and dime stores offered inexpensive items.
Long-distance calls were a luxury. It cost a considerable amount of money to reach even a distance of 50 miles. Science fiction was dismissed as futuristic gadgets like wrist communicators or robots assembled from garbage cans. We read about space travel and imagined everything on paper. However, now, I can write this article on my Samsung tablet, with my robot cleaner, Sweepy, making my home spotless. My coffee machine starts brewing at the exact time, and I can ask Alexa for the weather forecast.
The Evolution of Transportation and Communication
My SUV, an advanced model, displays information on the 'expressway' and operates with autonomous features. It tells me my fuel level, environmental conditions, and directions. In the past, getting in such a vehicle was a luxury reserved for the wealthy and exclusive. Now, it is a standard feature in mere cars. Long-distance communication has also undergone a drastic transformation. Talking to someone across the world, like a friend in Scotland, is now almost free through platforms like Skype.
Computing Power in the Modern Era
My library now boasts a computer more powerful than any imaginable before. It has a 5 GHz processor, 5 million megabytes of storage, and a 34-inch ultra-high-definition monitor, making early televisions look like a black and white Polaroid photo. With access to practically all the knowledge in the world at my fingertips, my device is more than a computer—it’s a video phone, allowing face-to-face conversations with people from anywhere.
The Future of Reality and Science Fiction
The combination of these real-world advancements with the world of The Orville highlights the blurred line between science fiction and reality. The Orville uses its mise en scene to create a sense of realism, making the show even more captivating. However, how far will the show's creators push the boundaries of realism?
With the rapid development of virtual reality, the Holo-deck from Star Trek is no longer just a figment of imagination. Virtual experiences are becoming a part of our daily lives, and it is fascinating to see how easily we accept them as real. The writers of The Orville and similar programs have a significant responsibility to continue pushing the envelope, as they are, in many ways, forecasting the future.
The Role of Science Fiction in the Modern Era
Scientific advancements continue to blur the line between imagination and reality. The era of science fiction becoming real is upon us, and we must adapt to this new reality. The writers of The Orville must embrace this role, ensuring their stories remain relevant and sets the stage for what we can expect in the future.
As we continue to live in a world filled with these advanced technologies and virtual realities, the future looks even more like science fiction. Writers must stay ahead of the curve, catering to the rapidly evolving technological landscape. After all, our current reality could be the next generation's science fiction.