Cosmos...A Space Adventure *cue trumpets*

After taking the class critical thinking and mass media by professor Ben Crane, I learned the scientific method is the only real way to prove the existence of any theory. But I also learned that the show cosmos sheds light on all of these things I learned in class. In 1980 a television series called Cosmos: A personal Voyage was released on PBS. This show written, and narrated by professor and scientist Carl Sagan created a milestone for any scientific documentary. This year they decided to bring back a new version of the show called Cosmos: A Space-time Odyssey. This series was developed to bring back the foundation of science to network television at the height of other scientific- based television series and films. This show is executive produced by Seth MacFarlane, whose brilliant financial investment helped develop this show into something extraordinary. Not only does the show contain amazing content, its graphics and locations are incredible. This is a show I recommend for everybody, especially for people who love the truth.

The original Carl Sagan above discussing multiple dimension theories.

The new cosmos which is way cooler looking. All in all, a very good show that will appeal to the intrigue, intellect and insight of everyone.

Cutting Edge SFX...From 40 Years Ago

When you go to see the latest summer blockbuster, part of the excitement is being blown away by the incredible special effects. As technology has advanced, more and more of these special effects have been done on the computer rather than the camera. Computer generated imagery allows filmmakers to open their imaginations beyond the limitations of reality. However, regardless of how far technology advances, there is still something different about in camera effects.

Case and point: Inception. This incredible, interwoven movie not only had a stellar plot, but it had special effects that enhanced the story rather than distract from it. Admittedly, many effects were digitally generated. However, Director Christopher Nolan knew the value of keeping some effects staged in reality. Not only that, but he also had the vision and planning to creatively realize his world, and integrate it seamlessly with the rest of the film. Take a look the behind the scenes feature on the anti-gravity fight scenes:

What is even more incredible, however, is that effects of this level were achieved over 40 years ago! Master Filmmaker Stanley Kubrick used the exact same techniques in his 2001: A Space Odyssey. From building rotating sets to dangling actors down vertical shafts, Kubrick pioneered the path that Inception followed four decades later. And what is truly incredible is how, after all that time, the old-fashioned way of doing it is still considered the best for these filmmakers. It's amazing to consider where we are going in filmmaking, but it is equally important to know where we came from as well.