The Evil Corporation Trope: An Analysis of Popular Science-Fiction Films
Student: Michael A. Poerio
Faculty Supervisor: Dr. Erik Stengler
Abstract: This presentation discusses the common trope in many popular science-fiction films that feature corporations which act unethically and immorally, thus creating conflict for the film’s characters. This “evil corporation trope” shows corporations and corporate leaders as the creators and holders of advanced scientific technologies that are then primarily used to increase the corporation’s power at the expense of others. Trust in science and scientists has been a point of contention during the Covid-19 Pandemic, causing vaccine hesitancy despite their efficacy. Films are an artistic tool for imitating reality, and the version of the scientific process that audiences view in these films with “evil corporations” is highly dubious and unethical. Therefore, understanding the ways that “evil corporations” cause harm in science-fiction cinema can aid in identifying the anxieties that both filmmakers and audiences have regarding the stewardship of science and technology in the real-world. Reviewing seven science-fiction films, covering a timespan of nearly 40-years, this presentation analyzes the actions of the corporate powers in each film and identifies common characteristics amongst each corporation in order to gain a better understanding of this popular film trope.