The only thing spreading faster than swine flu this season is Hollywood Fever, and the Museum of Science in Boston just caught it. The institution is running a series of adult programming called “Movie Magic,” a number of lectures led by top visual effects innovators. The presentations are an exploration of “the technological tricks that make films fabulous,” and reflect a larger museum initiative called “When Science Meets Art.”
“‘Movie Magic’ is part of our ongoing effort to produce sophisticated, cutting-edge, and culturally relevant programming for curious adults,” said Lisa Monrose, program manager in the Lectures & Special Programs Department at the Museum of Science, Boston.
“Moviegoers are wowed by visual effects, but they don’t necessarily know how these effects are achieved,” said Monrose. “Our series provides an opportunity to hear first-hand from the visual effects gurus who, through a combination of art, science, and technology, create magic on the silver screen.”
Visual effects producer and Northeastern professor Terrence Masson will lead a lecture entitled “Living in a CG World” on January 27 at 7pm. The pioneer behind original CG animation and rendering techniques, Masson will speak from his experience working on Fantastic Four, Star Wars: Episode I, and Batman Forever.
On February 3 at 7pm, visual effects supervisors Matt Jacobs and Eric Pascarelli will speak about their experiences working on New Moon, the second installation of The Twilight Saga, in a lecture entitled “Conjuring New Moon.”
Finally, Academy Award-winner Doug Roble, Creative Director of Software at the visual effects studio Digital Domain, will speak at a lecture entitled “Visionary Visuals” on February 10 at 7pm. Though his name may seem unfamiliar, Roble’s software is responsible for bringing many of today’s top blockbuster hits to the big screen.
All “Movie Magic” programs are free, and will take place in Cahners Theater at the Museum of Science. Passes are available in the museum lobby beginning at 5:45 p.m. on the evening of the program; arrive early as seating is limited. Museum members may reserve a limited number of seating passes in advance.
The only thing cooler than keeping warm at home with your favorite movie is trekking out in the snow to see how it was made. Plan a trip to the Museum of Science to cure even the worse case of winter woes.
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