Death Rays, Jet Packs, Stunts, and Supercars: The Fantastic Physics of Film's Most Celebrated Secret Agent
Adult/High School-A longtime James Bond fan, Parker takes a look at the science behind the movies and explains what works and what doesn't, and the basic physics involved. Is it possible to outrun an avalanche? Can a laser beam really cut someone in two? Do X-ray glasses work? The technical explanations are clear and intended for the layperson. Science alternates with movie details and interesting trivia: one of the world's first underwater cameras was used to filmThunderball; an early Bond movie featured snowboarding long before it became a popular sport. The appendix gives the author's opinions and rankings of the best of movies, actors, villains, and chase scenes. Parker's intent is not to criticize the films, but rather to share his enthusiasm for them and for physics. A book that's sure to appeal to teens with an interest in gadgets, cars, stunts, trick cinematography, and sports (skiing, bungee jumping).-Sandy Freund, Richard Byrd Library, Fairfax County, VACopyright © Reed Business Information, a division of Reed Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.