Mathematics and science at the cinema increase curiosity and understanding
From the film "Chasing the World's Largest Number: Combinations", shown at the Uppsala Short Film Festival.
The Department of Mathematics at Uppsala University is at the forefront when it comes to reaching out through the medium of film. Following a screening at the Fyris cinema, a special programme is now planned for Uppsala Short Film Festival.
Marie Chajara Svensson, communications officer at the Department of Mathematics. Photo: Johan Wahlgren.
From the film "Matter Patterns", shown at the Uppsala Short Film Festival.
Uppsala Short Film Festival is one of Europe's most important short film festivals, where the winning films may be nominated for an Oscar. Every year, over 300 short films from around the world are screened. One of this year's themes is Science New Wave, and on 22 October, eight short films from the world of mathematics will be screened at the Slottsbiografen cinema. Marie Chajara Svensson, communications officer at the Department of Mathematics, is responsible for selecting the films.
“Films can spark curiosity and interest. They can create an understanding of the subject and its significance without being heavy and incomprehensible. We chose carefully, aiming for a varied selection, both artistically, pedagogically and thematically. My own favourite is Alternative Math, which addresses fact resistance and is frighteningly topical,” says Marie Chajara Svensson.
This year's festival week takes place from 20 to 26 October. In connection with the mathematics films, researchers from the Department of Mathematics will be present at the Slottsbiografen cinema to provide perspective on the films and answer questions from the audience. The Science New Wave theme also includes a natural science focus, which will be shown at the Slottsbiografen cinema on 23 and 26 October.
“Much of the latest artistic short film brings together science and technology with innovative art. Science New Wave seeks new ways to convey scientific knowledge. It feels both urgent and exciting, and we are very pleased about the collaboration with Uppsala University,” says Christoffer Ode, programme director for the Uppsala Short Film Festival.
The short films in Science New Wave cover a wide range, from entertaining satire to technically innovative depictions at the forefront of science. This means that there is something to fascinate most people, from those with a general interest to the most knowledgeable experts.
Fyrisbiografen before the screening of Counted Out. Photo: Gisella Bengtsson.
Feature-length documentary on the importance of mathematics
The Department of Mathematics is also organising screenings of the thought-provoking documentary Counted Out. The film highlights a growing problem with low mathematical skills among the population, combined with the fact that mathematics is having an increasing impact on our lives.
“The film debunks the myth that some people don't have what it takes to be good at mathematics and proves the opposite. Counted Out shows that mathematics is not just about numbers – it is a question of democracy,” says Marie Chajara Svensson.
The film was recently shown to school classes, followed by a panel discussion at the Fyris cinema, right next to the University Main Building.
“Counted Out felt like a perfect choice. Not only is the film's message appealing and relevant, but we also enjoy collaborating with the university through rentals. In the mornings, the cinemas are often empty and work well for film screenings, meetings and lectures,” says Karin Magnusson, manager of Fyrisbiografen.
Counted Out will soon be screened with a post-film discussion at the Ångström Laboratory for Nannaskolan, NTI-gymnasiet and Valsätraskolan. These screenings will take place on 25 November (at 1:15 p.m.), 9 December (at 1:15 p.m.) and 17 December (at 8:30 a.m.) and there is still room for more people. Contact Marie Chajara Svensson if you would like to reserve a seat.
Johan Åhrgren