Columbia’s independent cinema brings science to the movies with expert-led film events
The Nickelodeon Theater has been selected as one of 41 independent cinemas, museums, and community film organizations across the country to receive a 2025–26 Science on Screen® grant, an initiative of the Coolidge Corner Theatre Foundation and the Alfred P. Sloan Foundation.
Now in its 14th season, Science on Screen® creatively pairs classic, cult, and documentary films with expert talks that explore scientific, technological, and medical themes raised by each film. The program aims to foster public understanding of science through the accessible and entertaining medium of cinema.
The Nick will present programming for the Science on Screen® series throughout the year, beginning with Ridley Scott’s The Martian on Tuesday, October 22. This thrilling, character-driven story follows astronaut Mark Watney (Matt Damon) as he uses ingenuity, resilience, and scientific problem-solving to survive alone on Mars.
Following the screening, a panel of local experts will dive into the real science behind the story — from the geology of Mars to the limits of the human body in space travel.
Panelists include:
- Lauren Steimer, Associate Professor of Film and Media Studies, University of South Carolina
- Daniel Frost, Professor of Geophysics, University of South Carolina
- Enrique Lopez Rodriguez, Associate Professor of Astrophysics, University of South Carolina
“We’re thrilled to be part of this national program that celebrates how film can make science engaging and accessible,” said Sumner Bender, Executive Director of The Nick. “Columbia is home to an incredible community of scientists and educators, and we’re excited to bring them together with our audiences in a way that sparks curiosity and conversation.”
Since its inception in 2011, the Science on Screen® initiative has awarded more than $3 million in grants to 140 organizations nationwide, supporting over 1,600 events that combine film and science education.
The Nick’s participation in Science on Screen® continues its mission to inspire, engage, and enrich the Midlands community through the art of cinema.
Event Details:
Science on Screen Presents: The Martian (2015)
Tuesday, October 22
6:30 PM screening, followed by expert panel discussion