Starting
with the first science fiction film, A Trip to the
Moon in 1902, uses and misuses of science in science fiction films will be explored
with extensive use of film clips. Some of the science is riotously ludicrous, some
profound, some cautionary, some prophetic, and some mirror the society’s concerns at
the time of making. Even Shakespeare gets involved. Films discussed will include Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde (1932), Dr. Strangelove, Forbidden Planet, Gattaca, Bladerunner,
and Medicine Man. This talk, which has been
presented at Family Day at the University of Virginia for the past few years, is not
deeply scientific and has been enjoyed by a wide audience including more mature children.
The audience will appreciate not only some of the science involved, but the skills of the
film makers, some of the societal issues, and the philosophical decisions made in the use
of the science.