The popular Science On Screen series continues September 23 in Santa Fe with SFI Omidyar Fellow Sam Scarpino presenting Horror of Dracula.
"Dracula is as much about this problem, the problem of evidence and truth, as it is about vampires," writes Eula Biss in her acclaimed essay On Immunity: An Inoculation. Since the invention of vaccines, vampires have been used to scare individuals away from these life-saving shots. While also a metaphor for concerns about capitalism and anti-immigration sentiments in Europe, Bram Stoker's novel Dracula also serves as a powerful reminder of how fear easily clouds human judgement.
Inspired by Bram Stoker's novel and presenting Christopher Lee in one of his most acclaimed roles, Horror of Dracula is considered one of the greatest horror movies of all time. Although heavily censored in Britain upon its release, the film went on to widespread critical acclaim. Infectious disease biologist Sam Scarpino, an SFI Omidyar Fellow, will use this film as a backdrop to examine the history of fear surrounding vaccination.
Science On Screen is a collaboration of SFI and the CCA. During each showing, an Institute scientist presents a favorite film, offering personal perspectives and insights from the world of science. It's an idea-rich spin on the movies.