SFX magazine
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
| SFX | |
|---|---|
 |
|
| Editor | David Bradley |
| Categories | Science fiction related |
| Frequency | 4 weekly |
| First Issue | 1995 |
| Company | Future Publishing |
| Country | United Kingdom |
| Language | English |
| Website | SFX |
| ISSN | unknown |
SFX is a British magazine devoted to science fiction and fantasy subjects, especially media-related topics, but not containing fiction. It is published every four weeks, and is the best-selling title of its type in the UK.
It was launched in 1995 by Dave Golder and Matt Bielby, as an alternative to the increasingly unfashionable likes of Starburst and TV Zone. In common with other magazines in the Future Publishing stable, it has a glossy cover, extensive features and interviews, and a self-referential writing style. Although SFX is the common abbreviation for special effects, the SFX website FAQ suggests that the magazine is not named after this ("It certainly doesn't mean we're a special FX magazine"): the SF stands for "science fiction", but the X may stand for anything.
Matt Bielby was the founding editor for the first 13 issues, moving on to found sister publication, Total Film. Dave Golder took over as the magazine's editor from the 14th issue, but in 2005 handed over to David Bradley. Since its launch, SFX has gone on to become a market and industry leader, and is one of the most well-recognised titles in the UK magazine industry.
The magazine's stance allows the expression of strong opinion on topics, sometimes being highly critical of films, books or TV shows that other magazines have rated highly. It has also printed the opposite of earlier opinions on occasion - for instance, comments damning the original years of Stargate SG-1 as awful trash were counter-balanced by relenting opinions of the series a few years later. The same could not be said for its critical attitude towards the modern series of Star Trek, (particularly Voyager) although it warmed to Deep Space Nine towards the end of the show's run. The magazine is, however, a collaboration of many different reviewers and journalists and therefore cannot be said to have a "view" of its own.
There are few changes in personnel, and many former staff members continue to write for the magazine in a freelance capacity, often contributing reviews and articles, such as Jayne Nelson's regular column. Well-known SF writer Dave Langford has also had a column since issue 1, and several other famous individuals from the world of cult TV and film have contributed, including Simon Pegg.
SFX had a tendency to place the cover picture over the bottom of the F in SFX thereby making the logo look like it may read SEX, although according to the magazine’s FAQ: "Believe it or not, it’s not deliberate - and never was. It's not intentional and you'll find many issues where the 'F' isn't covered". In 2005 the magazine underwent a redesign. Issue 150 had a brief statement that the magazine will under go another redesign in 2007.
