Science fiction is renowned for its pessimistic tales of dystopian malaise and post-apocalyptic horror.

With "dark" science fiction series like Black Mirror and motion pictures like District 9 being popular in the cultural zeitgeist, the genre's ability to inspire wonder and hope can be lost in the noise.

Then along comes a project shining like a beacon, piercing the shroud of existential angst.

The award-winning sci-fi short FTL (Faster Than Light) is a stirring example of science fiction awash in unabashed optimism.

Written and directed by visual effects master Adam Stern for his Artifex Studios, FTL is the story of astronaut Ethan Kane, the first human being selected to attempt to travel faster than light.