If you’ve ever wondered where the word “robot” comes from…someone is finally bringing that vision to film! Here is a standalone short film and sizzle reel at the same time:
The year is 1919. Somewhere in modern day Czech Republic, the soon-to-be acclaimed playwright Karel Čapek is creating his vision of the future: a ground-breaking sci-fi story called R.U.R., which would eventually become the inspiration for such masterpieces as Metropolis and Blade Runner. (Not to mention the modern Battlestar Galactica – Ed.)
In his version of the year 1969, genetically engineered workers inhabit the Earth. The perfect, made-to-order people – which would eventually become the basis for the concept of robots – are seen as lesser beings that lack basic human rights and provide a vehicle for commentary on modern politics, progress, and relationships.
Fast forward to today when award-winning writer/director James Kerwin looks back at Čapek’s look forward. His short film R.U.R.: Genesis presents a fresh yet faithful take on the classic sci-fi story. Set in an alt-history 1969, Kerwin masterfully combines Čapek’s surprisingly accurate predictions of future advances in biotechnology with the groovy go-go girl ’60s we know and love.
Ushering in tonight’s Overnight Open Thread is R.U.R. Genesis, which stars Chase Masterson (ST:DS9), Kipleigh Brown (Yesterday Was A Lie), and Vic Mignogna (Fullmetal Alchemist and Star Trek Continues):
Tags: Karel Čapek, R.U.R., robot, Science Fiction
