Alienated Spaces: DeathStarchitecture in Star Wars, Bleached Space and Dialogue in The Graduate, Showroom Space in Pleasantville and Mad Men, and the Dantean Homes of Homeland

Abstract

This chapter examines forms of Alienated Space beginning with the Death Star of the Star Wars franchise. Using the different spatial critique of Marc Augè and of Ray Oldenberg, four attributes of DeathStarchitecture are identified that contrast this space with those of Rebel zones to create a DisPassionate alienation that distinguishes the good from the bad guys. These attributes are: non-place with no memorable markers, highly-rationalized spaces of instrumentalism, surfaces and spaces featuring little or no history, and a lack of ‘third space’ zones of relaxation and socialization. However, unlike Star Wars’ Dispassionate characters who pursue largely external goals, a very different effect happens when these same attributes appear in films and television shows with Dramatic characters who possess inner conflicts. In The Graduate, Playtime, Pleasantville, Mad Men and Homeland similar alienation devices instead convey a inner lack, despair and need specific to and reflecting the story’s protagonist.