Most movies use science poorly, but some get it right. Here are a handful of films that deal very well with the topic of physics. By and large, these movies represent films that take few liberties with what is physically possible, although in some cases (such as science fiction) they may extrapolate a bit beyond what is currently known.
Apollo 13
In 1970, astronaut Jim Lovell (Tom Hanks) is commanding a "routine" mission to the moon, Apollo 13. With the famous words "Houston, we have a problem." begins a terrifying true journey of survival, as the three astronauts attempt to survive in space while scientists and engineers on the ground work to find a way to bring the damaged spacecraft back to Earth safely.
Apollo 13 has a phenomenal cast, including Kevin Bacon, Gary Sinise, Bill Paxton, Ed Harris, and others, and is directed by Ron Howard. Dramatic and moving, it retains scientific integrity in exploring this significant moment in the history of space travel.
October Sky
A film, based on a true story, about a teenager (played by Jake Gyllenhaal) who becomes fascinated with rocketry and, against all odds, becomes the inspiration of his small mining town by going on to win a national science fair.
2001: A Space Odyssey
2001 is the definitive classic space film, considered by many to have ushered in the era of space action special effects. Even after all these years - several years after the supposed date of the film has passed - it holds up quite well. If you can deal with the pacing of this film, which is a far cry from the whiz-bang of modern science fiction films, it's a great film about space exploration.
Deep Impact
Sunshine
The Core
