Welcome to a new area of Physics in Frames where we investigate physics ideas found in most unexpected locations in films. Although science fiction films like Interstellar purposefully challenge difficult scientific ideas, physics infuses all kinds of narrative and frequently in ways we might not immediately notice.
In “Unexpected Physics,” we will highlight those instances when an action movie inadvertently shows physics concepts such as momentum and inertia or when a romantic comedy abruptly cites Newton’s Laws. These examples show how greatly scientific ideas have shaped our cultural narratives and parallels.
Approaching physics from a cinema studies perspective instead of a scientific one, I find these unexpected appearances really fascinating. They show how physics concepts are still used to explain personal experiences, relationships, and emotions even by directors who’s intention is not to produce “science films”.
Come explore with me as we find physics right under our eyes over the movie landscape!
Physics in Frames 