The Academy Goes Bigger, Faster, Stronger with Hollywood Superheroes

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2012-08-13

Ever wonder if it’s possible to build a suit like Iron Man’s? What would you have to do to become a real-life Batman? Do you think gamma radiation could really create an Incredible Hulk? The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences will answer these questions and more in "The Science of Hollywood Superheroes," on Wednesday, August 15, at 7:30 p.m. at the Samuel Goldwyn Theater in Beverly Hills. The event will feature film clips and conversations with filmmakers, including animation supervisor Spencer Cook ("Spider-Man" and "Spider-Man 3") and screenwriter Zack Stentz ("Thor," "X-Men: First Class"). Scientists will also be on hand to offer their unique perspectives on the intersection between superhero fiction and current scientific research.

Presented by the Academy’s Science and Technology Council and hosted by physics teacher Adam Weiner, the event will explore the "real" physics behind superheroes by connecting the actual science to the superhero fantasy. Weiner’s interactive presentation will analyze how the fundamental laws of physics are used, misused and manipulated by our favorite superheroes.

Taking scenes from "Superman" (1978), "Spider-Man" (2002), "The Hulk" (2003), "Spider-Man 3" (2007), "Hancock" (2008), "Iron Man" (2008), "The Dark Knight" (2008), "X-Men: First Class" (2011) and "Thor" (2011), the program will demonstrate how the fictional world of Hollywood movies is also an effective and fascinating springboard into investigating science.

Weiner, author of Don't Try This at Home! The Physics of Hollywood Movies, currently teaches physics at The Bishop's School, a private high school in La Jolla, California.

Source: Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences

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