The Gothic in Altered Carbon: The Influence of 19th-Century Gothic Themes and Their Audiovisual Representation in Modern Science Fiction TV Productions

In Altered Carbon, a 2018 science fiction TV show from Netflix, the reality of the distant future contains many Gothic elements which combined with the visual imagery and sound not only introduce Gothic themes of 19th-century fiction, but also modify them for the needs of 21st-century audience. This paper explores how 19th-century Gothic elements and themes of horror, anxiety, and the uncanny were integrated and modified in this 21st-century sci-fi TV show. The analysis will revolve around the evolution of the Gothic narrative themes that inspire 21st-century sci-fi horror/mystery in TV productions.