You Can't Stop the Signal: Homage in Firefly and Serenity

Joss Whedon's short-lived sci-fi western show Firefly and its movie Serenity is set in a universe which combines the old with the new...sci-fi referring to a future setting and western to a lifestyle that is for the most part no longer relevant. Within this is displayed a number of characteristics which can be viewed as homage to classic films which make up the science fiction canon. Apart from the well known similarities between Captain Mal Reynolds and Star Wars' Han Solo, there are a host of other links to be acknowledged.

The vast plains the ship lands on are also reminiscent of those in Star Wars, as is the western style of dress worn by Mal, Zoe, and most of the main cast. Notably these are also aspects which can be seen in the final and  futuristic episode of Dollhouse, Epitaph Two.

However a contrast to this would be the large amount of Oriental symbolism, language and clothing depicted in the Firefly 'verse'. For myself, Orientalism in science fiction is a representation of mass growth and overpopulation. For example Ridley Scott's Blade Runner shows a world which has become so technologically advanced, overpopulated and polluted that its inhabitants are urged to seek a new life on the 'off-shore colonies'.

 In Firefly the earth's resources have also been used up, resulting in a move to other planets. Something that is also interesting however is that although we see hints of Orientalism in many of the casts outfits, it is Inara, a prostitute, who wears the finest Orient inspired clothes and has an elaborately decorated shuttle. This may be seen as another example of Whedon the feminist - creating a world where high class prostitutes are looked upon with awe and utmost respect.

Finally, aspects of the definitive sci-fi film, Alien, is also present in the Firefly verse. The ships in both are similar, flying through space in eerie silence. The meeting point for all on board Serenity is in the kitchen, where Ripley's crew also gather to converse.

 Unlike Alien and Blade Runner though, the Firefly universe is a hopeful place. There are elements of both utopia and dystopia, and no matter what situation this crew get themselves into there's always time for some comic relief.  Therefore although Whedon's creation owes a lot to the films mentioned above, its inspiring characters and mix of cultures place it in a more positive future where life seems to be worth the struggle.