Mapping the Unseen: Science Film Showcase - Chicago

A movie with IU roots, Humanexus: Knowledge and Communication through the Ages will be screened at the International House, University of Chicago on February 12, 2014. The event features "clips and commentary from filmmakers and scientists":

Mapping the Unseen: Science Film Showcase

How do we measure or observe the world just outside our reach? A spectrum of scientist-filmmakers investigate our near, and perhaps not-so-near, surroundings. An Adler Planetarium program visits the upper atmosphere (and edge of space). A grandson considers the laws of thermodynamics in an empty house. Abstract phenomena and complicated communications systems are visualized via animation and computer modeling. Each film, or set of films, will be followed by discussion of the themes between scientists and filmmakers.

The Science Film Showcase is presented with generous support from Education and Human Resources, The American Association for the Advancement of Science; Imagine Science Films; International House at UChicago Global Voices Program; UChicago Art│Science Initiative; and UChicago Office of the Vice President for Research and for National Laboratories.

The American Association for the Advance of Science (AAAS) highlights the Film Showcase on their website. ILS faculty member Dr. Katy Bӧrner notes that "the Humanexus movie is a result of a unique collaboration between Information Science at the School of Informatics and Computing, Ying-Fang Shen's design+art, and Nobert Herber's sound design." All three faculty members were at Indiana University at the point of initial collaboration. For more about the movie, including a three minute trailer, visit the film's official website.

Movie Synopsis: The human race has long searched for meaningful interpersonal connections. Tools and technologies have made it easier to reach out and share ideas, but each presents a new, unforeseen challenge. We must always ask: "Is this what we want? What do we want?"

Dr. Bӧrner will be one of the presenters at the Film Showcase.