The film Elysium, created by Neill Blomkamp, "takes place on both a ravaged Earth and a luxurious space habitat called Elysium. It explores political and sociological themes such as immigration, overpopulation, transhumanism, health care, exploitation, and class issues." (*)
"Elysium or the Elysian Fields (Ancient Greek: Ἠλύσιον πεδίον, Ēlýsion pedíon) is a conception of the afterlife that developed over time and was maintained by certain Greek religious and philosophical sects and cults. Initially separate from the realm of Hades, admission was initially reserved for mortals related to the gods and other heroes. Later, it expanded to include those chosen by the gods, the righteous, and the heroic, where they would remain after death, to live a blessed and happy life, and indulging in whatever employment they had enjoyed in life." (*)
As educators, how can we use this film to explore the aforementioned issues? Questions for discussion, research and reports might include:
(a) The film portrays two very different existences. Has the film made us more aware of the differences in existence between suburban gated communities and life in low-income inner city neighborhoods?
(b) The film portrays barren landscapes on earth, devoid of water while those on Elysium enjoy lush gardens and swimming pools. In the near future, much of the earth will experience desertification. Millions will be (and currently are) on the move to escape droughts. How does the film explore tensions between these two realities? What obligation, if any, do wealthier countries with water have towards areas that are experiencing drought and poverty?
(c) Is health care a human right? Should those with means have better health care than those without? How is this portrayed in the film?
(d) What rights and protections should workers have? How is this portrayed in the film?
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