Ep 4. Time

The Real History of Science Fiction is a four-part documentary series hosted by renowned British writer and journalist, Mark Gatiss. The show explores the evolution of the science fiction genre with expert commentary from writers, directors, actors, and fans of science fiction.

In episode 4 titled "Time", Gatiss delves into the fascinating concept of time travel in science fiction literature and screenplays, tracing its origins and evolution over time. He explores how time travel has been used to create tension in science fiction stories and how it has been used as a vehicle to explore profound themes such as mortality, regret, and redemption.

The episode commences with a discussion of the earliest science fiction stories that incorporated elements of time travel, including works by H.G. Wells, Jules Verne, and Philip K. Dick. The experts discuss the literary techniques these authors used to create believable worlds and characters and how they set the stage for later science fiction authors to explore the concept of time travel in more profound ways.

The episode also delves into the way pop culture has influenced the science fiction genre, with iconic films such as Back to the Future and The Terminator serving as examples of how time travel has been used to create entertaining stories. The contributors to the episode discuss how certain films have shaped popular conceptions of time travel and how these ideas have trickled down into other works of science fiction writing.

Throughout the episode, Gatiss interweaves modern-day interviews with archival footage, providing a rich visual experience that complements the storytelling. The historical footage gives viewers an insight into how the concept of time travel has evolved over time and how it has been received by audiences.

The episode also explores the ways in which time travel has been used to explore deeper themes. For instance, in The Time Machine, H.G. Wells uses the concept of time travel to examine humanity's future and how our actions today might affect the future of our existence. Similarly, in the Doctor Who series, time travel is used as a vehicle to explore the nature of identity, memory, and the passage of time.

The episode concludes by examining how time travel has been used to create tension in science fiction stories. The contributors discuss how time loops and paradoxes have been used to create suspense and keep readers engaged. They also explore the ways in which time travel has been used to create complex stories that require readers to keep track of multiple timelines and alternate realities.

Overall, "Time" is an insightful and engaging exploration of the concept of time travel in science fiction. Through interviews with experts and archival footage, viewers get an in-depth look at how time travel has evolved over time and how it has been used to explore a range of themes. Gatiss and the contributors to the episode make a compelling argument that time travel is not just a fun concept to explore in fiction, but a profound idea that can challenge our perceptions of reality and the nature of time itself.