There are two scientist types that have traditionally made it to the big screen: the mad and evil (Dr. Frankenstein) or the bold and dashing (Dr. Indiana Jones). Sometimes they are bold, dashing and mad (Jeff Goldblum in "The Fly"). If women, they are usually babes (Linda Fiorentino in "Men in Black," or Scully from "X-Files").
Real scientists, it would seem, are just too boring to be film heroes. But real science -- think computer power and biotechnology -- is catching up with science fiction, and Big Questions that were previously the preserve of sci-fi films or scientists are now relevant in our everyday lives.
While the mad scientist is still more popular than the scientist-hero, some films are tackling science without adding too much fiction and some are telling the stories of real-life scientists. And in light of today's technological advances, some old sci-fi films are looking a bit too close for comfort.