Space Fascism is one of those big topics in sci-fi, from Helldivers to Starship Troopers. There’s nothing easier than beating up a big evil empire full of conformity and evil, nor is there better social satire than one. But something happens sometimes where we create fascist villains and have to ask “Can they ever be better people?” Like with all things, there’s a right way and a wrong way to do it.
In this video essay, Anthony will discuss the idea of redemption and fascist characters. Not all of these characters are strictly speaking fascists, but they all push the boundaries of how evil and wicked an evil overlord can be before we try to redeem them. And…why do we want to redeem them? By the way, the worst person in this video? He ain’t in the thumbnail….