Insultingly Stupid Movie Physics

Book excerpt: In this fascinating and humorous guide, author Tom Rogers examines the real science behind stunts, plots, and special effects without ruining the fun of your favorite, universe-breaking action movies. Building on the work of the Insultingly Stupid Movie Physics website (http://www.intuitor.com/moviephysics/), this book questions classic 80s and 90s movies on 20 different topics, including: Can you ignite gasoline with the flick of a cigarette? What would "shrinking the kids" actually require? Would an explosion in space look like a scene from Star Wars? An informative romp through classic movies, Insultingly Stupid Movie Physics reveals the basic laws of physics and how Hollywood breaks them all—perfect for armchair Einsteins, movie buffs, or engaging lessons in the science classroom.