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GELF

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"G.E.L.F." (or "GELF") stands for Genetically Engineered Life Form. These creatures were artificially created by Human scientists during their expansion across the galaxy, specifically designed to perform tasks too hazardous or complex for humans. The Earth is the only planet the universe where life evolved naturally, meaning no "aliens", "extraterestrials" or "little green men". But as humanity grew in technological prowess and spread to other worlds, Terraforming and genetic engineering became the tool of choice for survival in hostile environments.

Rather than relying on robots and other mechanicals for all tasks, humanity began using genetic engineering to create G.E.L.F.'s, creatures capable of surviving in extreme planetary conditions. Some were developed as workers, adapted to environments where human life couldn't thrive. Others were designed as soldiers or weapons for the Space Corps, able to engage in combat where machines might fail. As time went on, and humanity itself became extinct, these genetically engineered beings were left to their own devices. Over millions of years, they evolved, forming their own societies and cultures, often strange and diverse, and continued to roam the galaxy without human interference.

Origins[]

The rise of GELFs came during the era when humanity had mastered the art of genetic manipulation. In an effort to overcome the challenges of colonising hostile planets, scientists across human space began experimenting with splicing genes to create life forms capable of adapting to any conceivable environment. GELFs were bred to withstand extreme temperatures, toxic atmospheres, and high levels of radiation. In some cases, they were made stronger and more intelligent than humans to serve as soldiers in conflicts where human troops might perish.

However, with the fall of humanity, these creatures no longer had a guiding hand. Left unsupervised, many GELFs developed complex social structures, distinct cultures, and even their own languages. While some retained traits that made them benevolent or neutral, others became more dangerous, acting out of self-preservation or developing aggressive tendencies.

The Diversity of GELFs[]

GELFs are not a singular species but a category encompassing a vast variety of beings with different physical forms, personalities, and behaviours. The Red Dwarf universe showcases both hostile and benign GELFs, with appearances ranging from monstrous to almost human-like. Some, like the Pleasure GELFs, were designed to be nurturing and helpful, whereas others, such as the Polymorphs and Psirens, were made to be manipulative predators, feeding off the emotions or mental energy of their victims.

GELF Societies and Cultures[]

As humanity died out, the GELFs were left to evolve and form societies of their own. While some remained solitary or formed small communities, others built advanced civilizations. The Kinitawowi, for instance, are known for their barbaric warrior culture, valuing strength and aggression, while treating humans with disdain. In contrast, other GELF societies may be more peaceful or structured around different values.

Over time, these societies developed their own traditions, customs, and social norms. Some GELFs retained their creators' knowledge of technology, allowing them to pilot spacecraft, while others reverted to more primitive lifestyles. Some GELFs even developed their own beverages, including creations like GELF Hooch and GELF berry wine.

In some cases, GELFs view humans and human-like beings as relics of a bygone era, either worshipping them as creators or despising them for their perceived weakness. They had a complex relationship with the robotic warriors known Simulants. They sometimes worked together finding common ground over their hatred of humanity.

GELFs and the Red Dwarf Crew[]

Throughout the Red Dwarf series, the crew encounters numerous GELFs, often leading to comedic or perilous situations. Some GELFs, such as the Polymorph, pose a direct threat to the crew, requiring them to outwit or defeat these shape-shifting beings. Others, like the Pleasure GELFs, may offer assistance or pose moral dilemmas.

Evolved Animals[]

Beings like the Felis sapiens— the Cat's people that evolved on Red Dwarf—are not classified as GELFs, as they developed naturally over millions of years rather than through genetic engineering. This distinction also applies to their alternate reality counterparts, such as the Canis sapiens (The Dog's people) and Rattus sapiens (The Rat's people), who, like the cat race, evolved through natural selection rather than artificial manipulation. Though these species share some traits with GELFs in terms of their humanoid characteristics and intelligence, their evolution was organic, marking a clear difference from the genetically engineered origins of GELFs in the Red Dwarf universe.

Races of G.E.L.F.-lings[]

Mentioned Only[]

G.E.L.F. Individuals[]

Non-Canon[]

G.E.L.F. Topics[]

Behind the Scenes[]

The inclusion of GELFs in Red Dwarf was a creative workaround for the show's original concept. The writers initially declared that the Red Dwarf universe would have no aliens, as they wanted to avoid typical sci-fi tropes. However, as the series progressed, they found it necessary to introduce new characters and antagonists for the crew to interact with. GELFs provided a convenient solution, allowing the writers to introduce strange and fantastical beings without breaking the rule of “no aliens,” since all GELFs were artificially created by humans.

The GELFs, with their absurd designs and often humorous characteristics, became a staple of the series, offering a rich array of strange encounters and plot devices while adhering to the quirky, offbeat nature of Red Dwarf.

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