The Rise of Bunker Narratives in Contemporary Television

Recent television series have increasingly focused on the theme of underground bunkers, reflecting societal anxieties about apocalyptic scenarios. Notable examples include Disney+'s _Paradise_, which features a billionaire, Samantha Redmond, constructing an elaborate underground city named "Versailles" to shelter 25,000 people during a climate catastrophe. This narrative contrasts with _Fallout_, based on a popular video game, where a sanitized elite survives in 1950s-style bunkers while the world above devolves into a wasteland filled with mutated creatures.

The Guardian

The fascination with bunkers in media can be traced back to historical narratives surrounding survivalism and elite preparedness, notably influenced by Ayn Rand's _Atlas Shrugged_. David Pike, author of _After the End: Cold War Culture and Apocalyptic Imaginations_, notes that these stories often reflect right-wing fantasies of isolation and control, where the wealthy construct shelters to escape societal collapse. This trend has gained traction in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, prompting a reevaluation of what it means to be "bunkered."

The Guardian

Prominent figures in these narratives often embody the archetype of the billionaire, such as Samantha Redmond in _Paradise_ and Hank MacLean in _Fallout_. Redmond is portrayed as a ruthless character who manipulates those around her, while MacLean's actions lead to catastrophic consequences. These portrayals raise questions about the moral implications of wealth and power in times of crisis.

The Guardian

Critics argue that these bunker narratives perpetuate a worldview that demonizes those outside the elite circles. Pike highlights a recurring theme where external threats are exaggerated, portraying outsiders as "neo-barbarians." This perspective reflects broader societal fears regarding immigration and societal breakdown, which some view as a troubling simplification of complex issues.

The Guardian

Krys Marshall, who stars in _Paradise_, emphasizes the show's unique approach to apocalyptic storytelling, stating, “We’re watching what happens when folks are down but they’re not out.” This sentiment contrasts with the more dystopian outlook of _Fallout_, where survival often hinges on confronting the horrors of the outside world. The creators of _Silo_, another series exploring bunker life, aim to address political questions about governance and freedom, illustrating the multifaceted nature of these narratives.

The Guardian

As these series continue to evolve, they are likely to explore deeper themes of community, governance, and the human condition in the face of adversity. The ongoing popularity of bunker-centric stories suggests that audiences are drawn to narratives that reflect contemporary fears while also offering a glimpse into resilience and survival.

The Guardian

• “I did not see it coming!” — Krys Marshall, Actress (_Paradise_)

The Guardian

• “There’s always a moment in these stories where the bunker turns out to be based on deception,” — David Pike, Author

The Guardian

• “The story is really about this tension of how we can live free while also being governed,” — Hugh Howey, Author (_Silo_)

The Guardian

• “Ours is a glam bunker. Theirs looks like it’s just a hair above hell.” — Krys Marshall, Actress (_Paradise_)

The Guardian