3x3 Suggestion: Favorite Graphic Representations of Science in Movies

Movies
1

I don’t know if you even entertain suggestions, but I got into an entertaining conversation the other day about graphical representations of science in movies.

We’re not talking about science itself or kinda-sciencey explanations of stuff (every Star Trek movie, for example). Computer generated imagery of science stuff, whether it was cool, lame, quaint or just a favorite. Take, for example (because no one will pick this - I hope), Independence Day. Jeff Goldblum’s virus interface thingy that popped up on his mac when he miraculously tapped into the alien computer system is a graphic representation of science. There was a skull, I think, and a handy progress bar to help the audience understand tension was involved.

There are so many great ones, from great movies, that I don’t want to cite more examples. I don’t think it’s been done, but if it has and anyone knows which podcast I’d love to hear it.

2

Jeff Goldblum’s virus interface thingy that popped up on his mac when he miraculously tapped into the alien computer system is a graphic representation of science.

Is it? It’s more of a GUI, surely.

Anyway, I nominate the Ascent of Duck from Howard the Duck.

3

This 3x3 on buttons, levers, and switches might fit the bill. I do seem to recall a 3x3 on our favorite computers screens or displays, but I’m not remembering the specific phrasing, probably because it was something Kellywand stumbled into. I think we also discussed cockpits (heh heh) in the Pacific Rim podcast.

-Tom