The “Fi” in Sc-Fi — The Biggest Science Mistakes in Sci-Fi Movies
Posted on June 12, 2012 at 8:00 am
The release of “Prometheus” inspired the infinitely charismatic astrophysicist Neil DeGrasse Tyson to correct not just its mathematics but its arithmetic. And it inspired Moviefone to create a gallery of the most outrageous science mistakes in sci-fi movies. These are mostly just continuity errors, not science mistakes, though. This is a better list of mistakes that show a poor understanding of the laws of physics and engineering. I also like this list.
But the best is this actual physics class presentation about the science errors in the classic of sci-fi: “My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic.”
The Smithsonian’s Air and Space Museum used to have a wonderful claymation video with Albert Einstein explaining how movies like “Star Wars” violate the laws of science. “They’re breaking my rule!” he would say ruefully. I’ve been unable to find it online — if anyone knows where it is, let me know.
And be sure to read this terrific piece in the Washington Post about how scientists are working with television and movie writers and producers to make sure that the media presents a more accurate picture of science — and scientists — and to make sure they have access to some of the most exciting new research to help inspire their stories.
Many consider “2001: A Space Odyssey” to be the most scientifically “accurate” of science fiction movies, but even it contains at least two errors:
> During the shuttle docking sequence, the shadows do not move consistent with rotating speaccraft.
> It was a mistake for Dave Bowman to hold his breath when he tuses the emergency airlock.
At the other end of the spectrum, NASA screens “Armageddon” for its management orientation program, then asks the new managers to spot up to 168 scientific impossibilities in the movie.
That’s great, Kevin! As a lawyer, I see mistakes in movies about law all the time. My law professor sister threatened to use “The Verdict” as a final exam, asking students to spot the dozens of mistakes.