[Ron]

I would add this one:

Kin-dza-dza! (1986, USSR, Georgiy Daneliya) – This movie is a great social critique of almost all aspects of life: social status, consumption, power institutions, corruption, and government.

The story takes place in a remote galaxy called Kin-dza-dza. The inhabitants of the galaxy have very advanced technology (such as teleports) but their social technics (using Mumford’s terminology) are absolutely primitive and despicable.

The galaxy has even its own Universal Unit of Account – the Ketse (simple wood matchsticks). The owners of Ketse enjoy social power, can pay bribes, and enjoy a higher social status. The social status is differentiated by the color pants (conspicuous consumption).

Some English reviews of the movie:

https://www.russianartandculture.com/kin-dza-dza-1986-by-georgiy-daneliya-images-from-a-distant-future-or-of-our-gloomy-earthly-present/

 

In praise of Kin-dza-dza! – the best sci-fi film you’ve never heard of

 

• This reply was modified 2 years, 10 months ago by Ron.

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