School Library Journal Review
Gr 7 Up-Based on David Bodanis's book, E=mc (Walker, 2005), period re-creations of Einstein's life and work, as well as that of earlier scientists and mathematicians (Michael Faraday, Antoine Lavoisier, Clerk Maxwell, and others) who laid the groundwork for his discoveries, lend a you-are-there feel to this production. Bodanis as well as other historians and physicists add their comments and analysis between dramatic segments. The parts of the equation are broken down in order to structure the narrative, showing how the work of scientists build upon the discoveries of others. Einstein's papers on the nature of light, atoms, the theory of relativity, and E=mc are explained and re-enacted. In addition, the later work of physicist Liza Meitner is discussed as is her persecution by the Nazis. The program is too lengthy to be shown in its entirety in class, but individual segments pertaining to specific scientists can be shown. The use of actors, re-creations, invented dialogue, and lavish costumes extend the science information, but efforts to include humor and sexuality are not seamless. Nevertheless, this amazingly ambitious production explains numerous scientific concepts and illuminates the meaning of an equation many quote but few really understand.-Joan Karasick, Greenwich High School, CT (c) Copyright 2010. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.
Library Journal Review
For centuries, scientists considered energy and mass to be completely distinct and unrelated. Einstein, through his famous theory, showed that, in fact, energy and mass are different forms of the same thing. Narrated by John Lithgow, this biographical and historical journey takes the viewer through time to witness the genius of well-known scientists such as Michael Faraday, whose scientific curiosity led to the invention of the electric motor and the discovery of a new concept in physics-motion. This film reveals the development of Einstein's scientific curiosity and credits those who came before him who laid the groundwork for his maturation and discovery. What is most intriguing is the film's infusion of the scientific revolution across time. These transformations are the focus of this intriguing film, which also shows that Einstein's achievement was not a happy accident. Instead, this documentary seeks to situate his discovery by exploring the lives of pioneers in related fields (e.g., Faraday, Antoine Lavoisier, Lise Meitner) and setting their achievements in a rich historical context. The acting is excellent and the scientific depictions right on point. Highly recommended for academic and public libraries.-LaRoi Lawton, Library & Learning Resources Dept., Bronx Community Coll., NY (c) Copyright 2010. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.
