Gravity: Is That Really the Title?

There have been several reviews of the new film Gravity with Sandra Bullock and George Clooney, but none of them have really questioned the title of the film. The odd part about the title is that it has virtually nothing to do with the rest of the film. The entire film is set in outer space where there is the obvious lack of gravity. The film would be more aptly titled Non-Gravity.

Though the title may lack logical reference to the actual film, the movie is actually quite an amazing experience, especially in 3D. The cinematography is great; the acting is superb. The plot, what little of it there is, is actually perfect for the film and really carries the movie to the end.

The first approximately ten minutes are clearly the best out of the film, specifically in regards to the understanding of physics in outer space. However, after the first ten minutes, the film slowly fades from an actual understanding of physics and quality design for sets into more of a horror film. The viewer is constantly forced to ask “what else can possibly go wrong?” Without giving any specifics away, the film very quickly plays itself out on that basic question.

One of the most interesting things about the film and the many reviews of it, is how often the reviews reference the excellent use of Newtonian physics in Gravity. The problem is that the film really doesn’t follow Newtonian physics at all. The first ten minutes do for the most part, but afterwards the entire film ignores all Newtonian physics except the second law of motion. As a reminder, a simple explanation of Newton’s three laws of motion are as follows: the first law states that objects are either at rest or they move at a constant velocity until another force acts on them; the second states that force is equal to mass multiplied by acceleration; the third states when one object applies a force on another, the second object exerts a force equal and in the opposite direction as the force applied to it.

These three laws are the basic building blocks of Newtonian physics. Gravity only actually accurately reflects the second law of motion. In fact, at several crucial points in the film’s plot, the first law of motion is completely ignored and truly implausible things happen. When people talk about Gravity being an accurate representation of Newtonian physics, it’s imperative to know that these people don’t understand Newtonian physics.

Overall, if you want to watch the film for the physics, don’t. On the other hand, if you want to watch a great 3D movie with really interesting and beautiful cinematography, then, by all means, enjoy Gravity.

Author’s Bio:

James Franko is a professional writer and blogger. He writes on film, business, marketing, and travel. His favorite thing to do is go yachting. This is the best thing he can imagine. When he can’t afford to travel on a yacht, he enjoys driving through the UK. You can view his budget car insurance comparison website by clicking here.