This paper reports the results of the initial phase of an ambitious project known as Physics in Films, designed to help improve public understanding of the basic principles of physical science that the authors have embarked upon. The project began with several large groups of nonscience majors enrolled in the general education physical science course at the University of Central Florida (UCF), a course with a counterpart in nearly every college and university (and many high schools) in the nation.

Topics
Education
1.
L.W. Dubeck, S.E. Moshier, and J.E. Boss, Fantastic Voyages: Learning Science Through Science Fiction Films (Springer Publications, New York, 1994).
2.
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3.
T. Rogers (personal communication).
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8.
“Armageddon,” Widescreen DVD, Touchstone Pictures, 1997.
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“Eraser,” DVD, Warner Bros. 1996.
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“2001: A Space Odyssey,” Widescreen DVD, Warner Bros., 2001.
11.
“The Abyss,” Special Edition DVD, 20th Century Fox, 2002.
12.
“Independence Day,” Widescreen DVD, 20th Century Fox, 2002.
13.
“Tango & Cash,” DVD, Warner Bros., 1997.
14.
“Frequency,” Platinum Series DVD, New Line Cinema, 2001.
15.
“Contact,” Widescreen DVD, Warner Bros., 1997.
16.
Grolier, Encyclopedia of Knowledge (Grolier Inc., Danbury, CT, 1995).
17.
E. Chaisson and S. McMillan, Astronomy: A Beginner's Guide to the Universe (Prentice Hall, Upper Saddle River, NJ, 2001).
18.
“Deep Impact,” Widescreen DVD, Paramount, 1998.
19.
“Mission to Mir,” IMAX DVD, Warner Bros., 1997.
20.
“Life Beyond Earth,” PBS DVD, Warner Bros., 2000.
21.
J. Bolemon, The Physics Around You (McGraw-Hill, New York, 2001).
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