Designing visions of the future : the role of architecture in production design in the films 'Gattaca' and 'Blade Runner' as a means of transforming and establishing character identity and the context of time

Abstract

This research study explores the dual roles of production design and architecture in the transformation of time and identity in futuristic film. From the historical background and definition of the role of production design, to the concept of reality versus illusion, architecture and production design are explored as vehicles for the transformation of ones cognisance of past, present and future in establishing a new context for identity. A comparison between the films Blade Runner (1982) and Gattaca (1997) explores the contribution of architecture within production design in establishing a new context of time within film. The portrayal of the future is examined especially in respect to the manipulation of architecture. Theory considering production design, in the establishment and sustaining of character, and how it can support a specific scene, is explored. Finally the use of architecture in the production design of the films is considered in terms of the creation of an overall setting consistent with the identity of character, context, and time frame.