Stem cell stories: science and ethics on screen
We've made four films looking at different aspects of stem cell research. All are the result of a close collaboration between scientists and filmmakers, and are designed to be accessible to a broad general audience aged 14+. The films are ideal for classroom use, conference screenings or just as a source of information for those who would like to know more.
All films have been produced in English, with subtitles and/or narration in French, German, Dutch, Italian and Swedish.
The 2-disc DVD set is not currently available
for order. More information will be available on the website about when
and how it will be possible to order once the EuroStemCell project is
over (Jan. 31).
1. A Stem Cell Story
15 minutes long and available to view
online, or download
via iTunes, this film provides an engaging, accessible and visually stunning
introduction to the world of stem cell research. It uses innovative hand-drawn
animation, stunning cell photography and documentary interviews to capture
the fascination and complexity of this cutting-edge area of science.
Awards and Screenings
A Stem Cell Story won the best TV/video production award at the Tromsø Science Media Festival, the best short film award at Scinema, and was selected to screen in competition at the Science Film Festival in Bangkok, at BaKaFORUM 2007 and at Vedere la Scienza.
Downloads
Download a video podcast of the film via iTunes (in English, French, German
or Italian)
Download WMV or Quicktime version of the film (English only) from the website of European Commissioner for Science and Research, Janez Potočnik.
 Download
a transcript (English) of the film in PDF format . (57 kb)
2. Conversations: ethics, science, stem cells
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Human embryonic stem cell lines are generated from
blastocysts - early human embryos. But what are blastocysts,
and when does personhood begin? What justifies research? Doctors,
scientists, ethicists, theologians and a patient bring their
different points of view, in this thought-provoking exploration
of the ethical issues surrounding stem cell research.
This 19-minute
film aims to encourage open debate about the ethical issues around
stem cell research. It is structured in
chapters, each addressing a key ethical question.
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3. Cell culture
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| This six-minute film takes a closer look at how and
why scientists grow stem cells in the lab. With the same visual style
that makes A Stem Cell Story so appealing, this film's mix
of timelapse photography, live action and hand-drawn animation transports
viewers into the cell culture lab. Ideal for senior biology classes. |
4. Dolly and beyond
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How was Dolly the sheep made? Are there different kinds of cloning?
What are their implications? Scientists, doctors and philosophers
address these questions with particular emphasis on the ethics of
cloning. |
For more information, or to pass on feedback about the films,
email film@eurostemcell.org.
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