Prior to the film screening, enjoy a presentation on Immortality by Dr. Jay Pieczynski from Rollins College, followed by a brief Q&A.

The quest for immortality is one of the oldest stories known to humankind and the one thing that unites all people is the inevitability of death. The topic of death and immortality can be viewed from many different academic perspectives, but perhaps none is better than that of a scientist. We’ll take a look at the process of aging and death through the lens of a biologist, discussing some of the mechanisms of these natural processes and what the research says about slowing or even reversing aspects of aging and age-related decline.

10:30-11AM: Doors are open for theater seating
11AM: Presentation by Dr. Jay Pieczynski from Rollins College
11:20-11:30AM: Q&A with Dr. Pieczynski
11:30AM: Film begins
1:10-1:15pm: Film ends

Dr. Pieczynski (or Dr. Pie to his students) is an Associate Professor of Biology at Rollins College where he studies cell and molecular biology and biochemistry. His research interests include neuro-cellular biology, the cellular mechanisms of neuronal signaling regulation, and genome editing technologies. He has previously taught courses on The Science of Life Extension and The Biology of Athletes, in addition to standard biology courses across many different fields ranging from ecology to cancer biology.  He was also a former collegiate athlete and an advocate for the benefits of life-long physical, mental, and emotional wellness.

The Fountain:
A man (Hugh Jackman) travels through time on a quest for immortality and to save the woman (Rachel Weisz) he loves. As a 16th-century conquistador, Tomas searches for the legendary Fountain of Youth. As a present-day scientist, he desperately struggles to cure the cancer that is killing his wife. Finally, as a 26th-century astronaut in deep space, Tom begins to grasp the mysteries of life, love and death.