Space sirens, scientists and princesses: the portrayal of women in science fiction cinema

Introduction: captive women -- Science fiction: silents and the establishment of female roles -- Science fantasy: sound, technology and the service of male desires -- Science fact: peace and the emergence of female professionals -- Intermission: watershed years, or, destination unknown and an annus mirabilis -- Golden era: blockbusters and the development of female heroes -- Dangerous times: identity crises and a millennial melange -- 21st century: computers, corporations and consumers -- Conclusion.;"Women are now central to many science fiction films--but that has not always been the case. Surveying more than 650 films across 120 years, the author charts the highs and lows of women's visibility in science fiction's cinematic history through the effects of two world wars, social and cultural upheavals and advances in film technology"--