I read these amusing, super-terse descriptions of science fiction movies from the July 2008 number of Scientific American (big ups to Mr. Steve Mirsky). Comments are mine, of course.

“2001: A Space Odyssey A slab of onyx and a singing computer get two astronauts in hot water.

Alien A feisty cat survives tense times onboard a spaceship.

Starship Troopers Valiant insects try to repel totalitarian invaders.”

I read the book after seeing the movie. The movie was OK, but it really didn’t communicate the interesting idea behind this Heinlein book: only those who have truly shown their willingness to sacrifice themselves for the greater good of the society are allowed the status of citizen, and the possibility to become a politician (and to vote).

“Predator The future governor of California and the future governor of Minnesota go hiking.”

As a European blissfully unaware of the governors of states of the USA, this joke did not quite open to me. However, I now suspect the governor of Minnesota has a serious cross-bite and dreadlocks. And maybe adaptive camouflage and a mini-nuke.

“The Matrix A man discovers his true destiny.

Star Wars An adolescent discovers his true destiny.

Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone A boy discovers his true destiny.

Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Rings A hobbit discovers his true destiny.”

It’s funny, because it’s true - and I’m not saying this only to make a joke! If you’re interested, have a look at Joseph Campbell’s book A Hero With a Thousand Faces.