Please join us for the screening of 3 films about contact between alien peoples. These films are related to the “First Contact” course taught by Professors DePree and Falen, but no prior knowledge or preparation is needed to attend. Following each film, we will hold a discussion about the practical, ethical, and philosophical implications of encountering new peoples for the first time, both real-life examples and hypothetical science-fiction scenarios. Popcorn and refreshments will be served!

On the lush alien world of Pandora live the Na'vi, beings who appear primitive but are highly evolved. Because the planet's environment is poisonous, human/Na'vi hybrids, called Avatars, must link to human minds to allow for free movement on Pandora. Jake Sully (Sam Worthington), a paralyzed former Marine, is drawn into a battle for the survival of their world.