To prepare for the movie, read as much of the Thorne book as you can.

Also, while you're watching the movie tomorrow, you'll be looking for certain things:

(1) How much of what's going on in the movie relies on physics we have read about and discussed?

(2) The main character is doing research in a rather controversial area. What does the movie tell you, and what can you surmise, about the impact on her career and credibility? What about her own opinions - why is she doing this?

(3) What roles do religion and science play in explaining the world and in giving meaning to life for different characters in the movie, and for that matter in real life?

(4) What do we see in this movie about the role of politics in science and the role of science in politics?

(5) Do you think the movie realistically portrays how science is practiced today? You might as well also think about the contrast between how science is practiced (both technically and sociologically) now.

(6) I assume it's inevitable that many of you will be judging the quality of the film's special effects. If so, please also think about whether they sacrifice integrity for sensationalism.