

Science Fiction
Damien Walter
Join writer and storyteller Damien Walter on an exploration of the world as seen through a science fiction lens.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Apr 1, 2025 • 27min
The cyberpunk comic that kicked neoliberalism in the nuts
Dive into the influential cyberpunk comic 'Transmetropolitan' as it challenges neoliberalism through its gripping narrative and vivid artistry. Explore how revolutionary themes resonate with today’s societal upheavals, especially among younger audiences. Discover the transformative power of technology in driving non-violent change and storytelling’s role in modern movements. Unpack the cultural critique of neoliberalism found within, focusing on the flawed yet compelling figure of Spider Jerusalem, a gonzo journalist navigating a dystopian world.

Mar 4, 2025 • 31min
Did George Orwell see Big Elon coming?
Explore how George Orwell's insights on oligarchy resonate with today's political landscape. Dive into a discussion about the rise of technocracy post-Trump, highlighted through themes in the show Andor. Reflect on modern comfort versus historical revolutions and the materialism shaping contemporary discontent. The conversation navigates transhumanism and accelerationism through a quirky lens, while also critiquing Orwell's Cold War foresight and the present-day threats to democracy. A thought-provoking blend of politics, history, and imagination awaits!

Jan 22, 2025 • 30min
The only true Philip K Dick movie
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Become a member of the Science Fiction community to continue the discussion
Website - https://damiengwalter.com
YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/c/DamienWalter/membership
Patreon - https://www.patreon.com/DamienWalter
Subscribe to the Science Fiction podcast feed for long-form commentaries on these video essays
https://damiengwalter.com/podcast/
Join the Science Fiction community on Facebook
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Jan 8, 2025 • 2h 14min
The Last Marxist
Become a member of the Science Fiction community to continue the discussion
Website - https://damiengwalter.com
YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/c/DamienWalter/membership
Patreon - https://www.patreon.com/DamienWalter
Subscribe to the Science Fiction podcast feed for long-form commentaries on these video essays
https://damiengwalter.com/podcast/
Join the Science Fiction community on Facebook
https://www.facebook.com/groups/324897304599197/
Follow Damien on
Twitter - https://x.com/damiengwalter
Bluesky - LINK https://bsky.app/profile/damiengwalter.bsky.social

4 snips
Dec 30, 2024 • 11min
10 Science Fiction books to read in 2025
Become a member of the Science Fiction community to continue the discussion
Website - https://damiengwalter.com
YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/c/DamienWalter/membership
Patreon - https://www.patreon.com/DamienWalter
Subscribe to the Science Fiction podcast feed for long-form commentaries on these video essays
https://damiengwalter.com/podcast/
Join the Science Fiction community on Facebook
https://www.facebook.com/groups/324897304599197/
Follow Damien on
Twitter - https://x.com/damiengwalter
Bluesky - LINK https://bsky.app/profile/damiengwalter.bsky.social

Dec 4, 2024 • 33min
When HG Wells met Vladimir Lenin
Become a member of the Science Fiction community to continue the discussion
Website - https://damiengwalter.com
YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/c/DamienWalter/membership
Patreon - https://www.patreon.com/DamienWalter
Subscribe to the Science Fiction podcast feed for long-form commentaries on these video essays
https://damiengwalter.com/podcast/
Join the Science Fiction community on Facebook
https://www.facebook.com/groups/324897304599197/
Follow Damien on
Twitter - https://x.com/damiengwalter
Threads - https://www.threads.net/@damiengwalter
Bluesky - LINK https://bsky.app/profile/damiengwalter.bsky.social

Oct 30, 2024 • 12min
Modernity is done
The conversation dives into the need for realistic and optimistic futures in science fiction. It challenges creators to move beyond distant fantasies and collaborate on inspiring visions for the next century. The discussion also addresses the collapse of traditional narratives with the rise of automation and AI. It highlights the urgency to redefine work and meaning, urging new, hopeful stories to navigate this transition into a post-modern era.

Oct 8, 2024 • 22min
Joker is a masterpiece of radical cinema
Dive into the cultural critique surrounding the film 'Joker,' where consumerism distorts narratives. The discussion challenges shallow storytelling, spotlighting the complexity of characters like Harley Quinn. Explore how the Joker films serve as anti-fantasy narratives, revealing themes of madness and societal neglect. Discover the radical implications of cinema in addressing inequality and violence, and why it's crucial to engage with storytelling beyond mere marketability.

Oct 2, 2024 • 14min
Megalopolis and its discontents
Dive into a fascinating exploration of the film 'Megalopolis' as the discussion highlights its unique narrative style. The conversation delves into how it serves as a powerful critique of contemporary culture. Listeners will discover the film's artistic significance and its reflections on a declining modern civilization. This commentary challenges perceptions and encourages a deeper understanding of the cinematic experience.

Sep 22, 2024 • 1h 34min
50,000 Subscriber Question & Answer
Discover the shift from idea-driven to character-driven storytelling in the genre, influenced by diverse cultural backgrounds. Dive into the complex interplay between utopianism and totalitarianism, along with insights into creativity and productivity. Explore the challenges of discussing science fiction on digital platforms and the need for diversity. Reflect on the intricate ties between literature, politics, and authoritarian themes while celebrating the transformative power of digital communities in fostering creativity and support.