Department of Physics
Professor Calvin W. Johnson
Web pages
NS 310 Science in SCIENCE FICTION SPRING 2006
SF Film series CANCELLED
I recommend the following films:
20,000 Leagues under the Sea (1954). Captain Nemo is a scientist/inventor anti-hero.
The Day the Earth Stood Still (1951). A parable (literally--the alien Klaatu is a Christ figure, down to his pseudonym "Mr. Carpenter") warning against fear, mistrust, and nuclear weapons.
Forbidden Planet. (1956) Based upon Shakespeare's The Tempest. Technology cannot muzzle the unconscious.
2001: A Space Odyssey. (1968) Not only is the universe stranger than we imagine, it is stranger than we can imagine.
Planet of the Apes (1968). Evolution turned upside down. Also scientific inquiry vs. religious authority.
Blade Runner.(1982) Androids as illegal aliens. What does it mean to be human? Cyberpunk sensibilities.
Gattaca. (1997) A near-future society evaluates people strictly upon their genetic fitness.
Note: while these films illustrate many of the points made in class, you are not required to view these. They are recommended for you to rent for your own pleasure and edification.
Last updated Feb 23, 2006