What actually makes something “sci-fi”? Is science fiction really about futuristic technology and robots… or is it secretly about us? Why do stories about artificial intelligence, space travel, dystopian societies, and strange futures continue to fascinate people across generations? In this discussion hosted by Nick, award-winning filmmaker, former film professor, and Cannes-featured storyteller, we’ll unpack the science fiction genre itself: where it came from, why it matters, and what separates true sci-fi from fantasy, action, or just movies with cool technology. Together, we’ll explore some of our favourite sci-fi worlds and brainstorm the deeper patterns and conventions that define the genre.

As part of the session, we’ll watch and break down a scene from Ex Machina, the haunting modern sci-fi film about artificial intelligence, consciousness, manipulation, and what it means to be human. But beyond the technology itself, the conversation will dive into a deeper question: do science fiction stories actually help us prepare for real life? Can they act as what one thinker called “equipment for living” — helping us emotionally, psychologically, and ethically navigate the future before it arrives? Whether you’re a hardcore sci-fi fan or someone who simply enjoys smart films and good conversations, expect a fun, thoughtful, and highly engaging discussion about imagination, humanity, and why the future has always been one of storytelling’s greatest obsessions.

究竟什么样的作品才算科幻片？科幻的内核只是未来科技与人工智能，还是始终在映照人类自身？人工智能、星际航行、反乌托邦社会与未知未来，为何能跨越世代，始终吸引着大众目光？

本次活动由获奖电影制作人、前影视专业讲师、戛纳参展创作者尼克主持。我们将剖析科幻题材的起源与价值，厘清科幻和奇幻、动作片、纯特效影片的本质区别。一同走进经典科幻世界观，梳理这类题材共通的创作逻辑与核心特点。

活动中将赏析解析现代经典科幻片《机械姬》片段。影片围绕人工智能、自我意识、心理操控展开，探讨人性的本质。抛开炫酷的科技外壳，我们将深度探讨：科幻故事能否帮助我们应对现实生活？是否正如学者所言，科幻是指引生活的精神工具，提前帮我们从情感、心理与道德层面，迎接未来的种种变化？

无论你是资深科幻爱好者，还是偏爱深度影片、享受思想交流，都能在此畅聊想象力与人性思考，一同探寻未来题材经久不衰的魅力所在。