Science Fiction

Hey there folks, welcome to the first in a series of articles that I'll be writing for Octocon.com, exploring the connections between science fiction and music. This is the first of a planned three article series, with each part covering a slightly different aspect of the relationship: to begin with, “Music from SF” will cover the soundtracks and themes of science fiction films and TV shows; “Music in SF”, the second article, will examine the music that exists within science fiction settings; and finally “Music as SF” will be about music that tells science fiction stories.

This of course, could change entirely as I write it. I'll also be touching on these same topics in horror and fantasy worlds, and I'd love to get feedback and suggestions from readers.

We've already gotten some great suggestions on our twitter page, including a link to the excellent blog Sci-Fi Songs (thanks to @JohnAnealio for the link!).  Their top-rated song, the excellent Cylon #6, brings me nicely to my starting point: the music in the TV show Battlestar Galactica. 

As interest in the first National Irish Science Fiction Film Awards (AKA The Golden Blasters) grows, we here at Octocon HQ took a moment out from measuring our tuxedos and fabulous designer dresses to ask director John Vaughan not only what he will be wearing but a few questions about the festival itself.

Octocon: So what gave you the idea of having a film festival at Octocon?

John Vaughan: Over the past few years I've been travelling to some film festivals and I've seen some excellent genre short films - especially from Ireland. However, the main medium for exhibition is just film festivals so unlike the big budget Hollywood blockbuster very few people get to see these films. Having discussed it at length with the Octocon committee, we felt it was time to bring some of these films to the attention of the Octocon audience who we knew would enjoy and appreciate them. Hence the Golden Blasters.

O: What can we expect?

JV: Fun! The most important thing to know is that these films have been selected on the basis that they are entertaining to watch. You wouldn't believe the amount of festivals I've attended where you have to sit through a film such as the one about the perils of Growing Cabbages in northern France. Yes, such films exist. So while we've selected entries chiefly for entertainment value, it doesn't mean they don't have something to say.

O: Will the festival just be sci-fi films?

JV: No. This festival is open to the genres of horror, science fiction and fantasy. This year we are looking at a good mix of horror and science fiction with variations from alternate history to out-and-out comedy.

In week two of the Golden Blasters, The National Irish Science Fiction Film Awards, we continue our stream of nominations leading up to Octocon 2009. This week, we're excited to announce the amazing He Dies In The End.

Here are Mr. John Vaughan's comments on this film.

"Having premiered at last year's Film 4 Frightfest and having won the Indie Short Film Competition, He Dies At The End shows that no matter how low the budget , a good idea is a good idea. Running at just over four minutes and completely without dialog , this film will put a shiver down your spine and a smile on your lips."

We know you'll love it. :)

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