2008
126 minutes
Action / Adventure, SciFi
Rated PG13
English, Persian, Urdu, Arabic, Kursish, Hindi, & Hungarian Subtitled in English
Take a deep dive into the science we see on screen with host and director of The Science House, Alonzo Alexander. Listen and learn while our host breaks down the cool, mysterious, and surprising science hidden within your favorite films.
The Arc Reactor: Science or Science Fiction?
Join us for a look at Iron Man, the blockbuster that launched the Marvel Cinematic Universe, starring Robert Downey Jr. as the genius billionaire Tony Stark. In this film, Stark’s revolutionary Arc Reactor promises clean, limitless energy—an idea not so far removed from real-world fusion research. We’ll explore the science behind fusion energy, how close we are to achieving a breakthrough, and whether a miniaturized reactor like Stark’s could ever exist. Plus, we’ll dive into the ethical considerations of advanced technology in energy and defense.
Film screening follows talk.
Film Synopsis: Suit up for action with Robert Downey Jr. in the ultimate adventure movie you’ve been waiting for, Iron Man! When jet-setting genius-industrialist Tony Stark is captured in enemy territory, he builds a high-tech suit of armor to escape. Now, he’s on a mission to save the world as a hero who’s built, not born, to be unlike any other. Co-starring Gwyneth Paltrow, Terrence Howard and Jeff Bridges, it’s a fantastic, high-flying journey that is “hugely entertaining” (Joe Morgenstern, The Wall Street Journal).
Directed by Jon Favreau | 2008 | United States, Canada