cyberpunk: hacker as hero

HackerAs

Hero

Benedict LeeJoel Teo

Cyberpunk

Postmodern Science Fiction genre

Cybernetic Punk (Cyborgs, AI)

An ordinary guy forced into difficult situations by mega-corporations/corrupt governments

Highly influenced by Film Noir

Characteristics of Cyberpunk

World is a dark sinister place

Networked computers running every aspect of life

Giant, multinational corporations replace

governments as centers of political, economic and

sometimes military power.

Tend to use elements of film noir

Dirty, Gritty EnvironmentsContrast between Light and Dark

Distinctive Colour SchemeJazz and Electronic Music

Aesthetic Style

Character CharacteristicsProtagonists are usually computer hackers with a vigilante mentality (alone, fights for justice)Are usually manipulated, forced into situations where they have no choiceEven if they see things through, their status would be the same as before they were involved.

The Accomplice

Usually highly skilled at hacking/combat, usually more skilled than the protagonist.

Usually also develops a romance with the protagonist.

ExamplesTrinity (Matrix)Batou (Ghost in the Shell)Molly (Neuromancer)

The Boss/MentorProvides the objective to the protagonist.

Usually also provides guidance and training.

Has strong organizational/leadership skills compared to the protagonist.

ExamplesMorpheus (Matrix)Aramaki (Ghost in the Shell)David Sarif (Deus Ex 3)

FilmsBlade RunnerThe Matrix

AnimeGhost in the ShellAkira

LiteratureNeuromancerDo Androids Dream

of Electric Sheep?Videogames

Deus ExUplink

Cyberpunk Examples

Analysis

The Plausible Dystopia

Corrupt Governments

Monopolistic

Corporations

Loss of Individuality

CONSUMERISM

CORRUPTIONPOWER

The Real World

Technology isA Tool

Control Technology,Control the

World

HACKER

The Everyman

ReclaimingTechnology

The ModernRobin Hood

Cyberpunk is the depiction of how

ordinary people can be empowered by

Technology to reclaim democracy in an

increasingly oppressive world.

Case Study

fCyberbrain Sclerosis

Cyberpunk:The Modern Robin

Hood Tale

Benedict LeeJoel Teo