Watch Vintage Tomorrows

"Vintage Tomorrows" is a fascinating documentary released in 2015 that explores the steampunk cultural movement and its impact on contemporary technology. The movie features interviews with notable steampunk creators and personalities, such as James Carrott, Brian David Johnson, and Anina Bennett, and presents a historical overview of the genre's evolution from its beginnings as an alternative view of the future in late nineteenth-century literature to its present position as a cultural phenomenon.

The movie is structured around the concept of "retrofuturism," which refers to the use of antiquated design elements and technologies to represent a more romanticized and imaginative version of the past. As the documentary shows, steampunk is a prime example of a retrofuturistic movement that has grown to encompass everything from fashion and art to music and film.

At its core, "Vintage Tomorrows" is a celebration of the creativity and ingenuity of the steampunk community. The movie features interviews with steampunk makers and enthusiasts who explain their love for the genre and highlight the diversity of the subculture. From clockwork gadgets to wearable technology, steampunk enthusiasts use an array of materials, from repurposed brass to 3D-printed plastic parts, to create stunning and unique pieces. The documentary shows that this fascination with the intersection of old and new is about more than just aesthetics; it is about revisiting a lost sense of wonder and possibility that was once integral to our relationship with technology.

One of the most compelling elements of the documentary is its exploration of the cultural, social, and political implications of steampunk. The movie argues that steampunk can serve as a form of resistance against the homogenization of modern culture, and enables people to express their individuality by embracing the unconventional. Through steampunk, people can reject the idea that everything must be sleek and streamlined and instead appreciate the beauty of mechanical intricacy, the intimacy of hand-crafted items, and the allure of the mismatched and eccentric.

Moreover, the documentary argues that steampunk is not just nostalgia for nostalgia's sake; it is a way of re-imagining history and envisioning a better future. By incorporating past technologies into modern creations, steampunkers reveal the potential for alternative futures that might exist beyond the current technological paradigm. The film shows that steampunk is not just about looking backwards but instead a way to imagine a more inclusive and equitable future where everyone has access to the means of creation and self-expression.

The documentary also explores the relationship between steampunk and science fiction, highlighting the ways in which the two genres have informed and inspired each other. Filmmakers like George Lucas and Ridley Scott are interviewed, discussing how the richly imagined worlds of science fiction have influenced the aesthetics of steampunk. But the reverse is also true, as steampunk has had a major impact on science fiction. The documentary emphasizes how the subgenre's focus on the impacts of technology on society appeals to science fiction fans who value science fiction's ability to push boundaries and explore the unknown.

In conclusion, "Vintage Tomorrows" is an engaging and thought-provoking film that explores a cultural movement that has come to symbolize the intersection of art and technology in the twenty-first century. By showcasing the work of artists, makers, and enthusiasts who have dedicated themselves to this subculture, the film brings to life the energy, creativity, and passion of the steampunk community. Furthermore, the movie's examination of steampunk's role as an amplifier for marginalized voices and an agent for cultural change, elevates the film from a simple appreciation of a trend to a commentary on contemporary society. The documentary's blend of historical context, interviews with engaging subjects, and captivating visuals make it a must-see for fans of steampunk, science fiction, and fans of art movements generally. In an era when technology is often dismissed as soulless, the movie reminds us that passion, creativity, and artistry can still be found in the products we use every day.

Vintage Tomorrows is a 2015 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 10 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.4.