Dr Alexander Sergeant, Pathway Leader in the Digital Media Production BA Honours and Deputy Course Lead of the Film BA Honours courses at the University of Westminster, recently spoke at the British Film Institute’s (BFI) London Film Festival in an event titled Lights, Camera, Genre! Fantasy, which explored the power and cultural significance of fantasy storytelling in cinema.
At the festival, which took place between 8-19 October, audiences gained insights into the imaginative worlds of fantasy film, from enchanted kingdoms and mythic creatures to battles between good and evil. Dr Sergeant guided attendees through the visual and thematic language of fantasy, reflecting on how the genre continues to capture the collective imagination across generations of filmmakers and audiences alike.
He discussed how fantasy serves as both escapism and allegory, a space where human emotion, imagination and technological artistry combine to create stories that transcend reality. He drew on examples from classic and contemporary films and illustrated how fantasy worlds often mirror our own cultural anxieties, desires and hopes.
Alexander Sergeant is widely recognised for his contributions to the study of fantasy, popular culture and film theory. Alongside his academic work, he co-hosts the acclaimed Fantasy/Animation podcast, which examines how fantasy storytelling and animated forms intersect across film history and modern media. He also wrote Encountering the Impossible, the first academic explanation of how audiences use their imaginations to experience fantasy media.
The BFI London Film Festival is dedicated to exploring key cinematic genres through panels, screenings and discussions with filmmakers and scholars. This year’s fantasy session highlighted the creative artistry behind world-building and mythmaking, encouraging audiences to appreciate fantasy not merely as escapism, but as a significant and relatable form of cultural expression.
The event reaffirmed fantasy cinema’s place at the heart of the storytelling imagination, reminding audiences why tales of dragons, wizards and otherworldly realms continue to enchant and inspire.
Alexander Sergeant said: “It was a pleasure to share my research expertise with an enthusiastic audience who took time out of their busy schedule of film screenings during this year’s London Film Festival to learn about the history and theory of fantasy storytelling. Fantasy is an important part of the way we bring meaning and excitement into our lives, from the stories we tell ourselves to the creatures we imagine into being to help colourise and make the world more magical. We wouldn’t have Westminster’s Dragons without it.”
This event directly contributes to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 4: Quality Education. Since 2019, the University of Westminster has used the SDGs holistically to frame strategic decisions to help students and colleagues fulfil their potential and contribute to a more sustainable, equitable and healthier society.
Learn more about Media and Communication courses at the University of Westminster.
