Mad Max: Fury Road is not considered to be a steampunk film. While it is true that both Mad Max and steampunk share some common elements, such as a post-apocalyptic setting and a focus on technology, there are significant differences between the two.
Firstly, steampunk is typically set in a Victorian or Edwardian era, where steam power and clockwork mechanisms are prevalent. It often takes place in an alternate history where advanced technology is powered by steam and gears. In contrast, the Mad Max series is set in a dystopian future where resources are scarce, and technology is primitive and cobbled together from salvaged parts. The emphasis in Mad Max is on survival rather than the advancement of technology.
Secondly, steampunk often incorporates elements of Victorian fashion and aesthetics into its design. The costumes and set designs are ornate, with brass gears, goggles, and corsets being common visual motifs. Mad Max, on the other hand, has a gritty and rugged aesthetic. The characters wear practical and functional clothing, and the vehicles are utilitarian and designed for survival in a harsh desert environment.
Furthermore, the thematic focus of Mad Max is different from that of steampunk. While steampunk often explores themes of industrialization, the class divide, and the impact of technology on society, Mad Max is more concerned with themes of survival, redemption, and the human condition in a lawless and chaotic world.
It is worth noting that the term “steampunk” has become somewhat of a catch-all phrase for any work of fiction that combines elements of the past and future. As such, there may be some overlap between Mad Max and steampunk in terms of visual style or certain narrative elements. However, it is important to recognize the distinct differences between the two genres.
While Mad Max: Fury Road shares some surface similarities with steampunk, it is not considered to be a steampunk film. The setting, aesthetics, and themes of Mad Max differ significantly from those typically associated with steampunk. It is a unique and distinct genre unto itself, showcasing a post-apocalyptic world driven by survival and the human spirit.