Popular Science (film series)

Popular Science was a series of short films produced by Paramount Pictures from 1935 to 1949. These films, typically lasting around ten minutes, presented educational and entertaining segments on a variety of scientific and technological topics. They were a staple of movie theater programming, often shown before the main feature.

The content of Popular Science shorts varied widely. Segments could include demonstrations of new inventions, explanations of natural phenomena, and peeks into cutting-edge research and development. The films frequently incorporated stop-motion animation, diagrams, and live-action footage to illustrate complex ideas in an accessible manner. Narration was used extensively to guide the viewer through each topic.

The Popular Science film series aimed to make scientific knowledge engaging for a general audience. They were instrumental in shaping public understanding and enthusiasm for science and technology during the mid-20th century. The series helped to popularize scientific advancements and foster a sense of optimism about the potential of technology to improve lives.

The original Popular Science film series concluded in 1949. Although the original series ended, the "Popular Science" brand itself, originating as a magazine, continued and has since expanded into various media formats.