Film-centric science communication: Striking a balance between accuracy and visual storytelling

What began as Public Understanding of Science (PUS) has over the years, transformed into Public Awareness of Science (PAS) and then to Public Engagement of Science (PES). However, what also remained at the center of the thought was the fact of ‘bringing a new urgency to the question of the communication of science’ to the public. With more widespread scientific literacy, the workers would be able to do their jobs better, managers and government would make better decisions and industry would become more competitive. In their personal lives, people would make better choices about their lifestyles, particularly if they understand risk better. Though the number of science films produced over the years has seen a rise, it has not been matched by the scholarly studies on them. Since celluloid films and television programs run larger risk of content dilution in order to appeal to a larger audience, it often results in a distortion of scientific facts while producing a media product. It is, therefore, important to apply caution during production and post-production of science films to ensure authenticity of content being treated in them. Research studies on this particular aspect of science film production is also seeking attention from scholars. Another important area where not enough research has been undertaken concerns the impact of science films as a media for science communication. This paper studies the literature that analyses the impact of science films and examines how effective films have proved for the public appreciation and understanding of science.