Themes of oppression and dehumanization: A study of Techno-Noir film

This thesis explores the manifestation of the themes of oppression and dehumanization in a selection of five Techno-Noir films. The films examined were Blade Runner, Brazil, Gattaca, Dark City and The Matrix.;Research was conducted to document the defining elements of both classic Film Noir and Science Fiction film genres. Further study was undertaken to define oppression and dehumanization and the means by which they are perpetrated in these two types of film. The five films were selected and analyzed for the way various elements contributed to their Techno-Noir status. Analysis of the films consisted of studying the narrative patterns, plot structure, worldview, characterization and visual stylistics of each. The elements of dehumanization and oppression were delineated and a conclusion presented for each film. A final conclusion was prepared offering comparison on the thematic contents of the films and showing how human concerns regarding oppression and dehumanization are represented in this selection of Techno-Noir films.