Science Movie Club: 'Arrival'

Consultation

Jessica Coon, a field linguist at McGill University, shares her unique experience as a consultant for the film 'Arrival.' She was initially skeptical when approached to work on a movie based on Ted Chiang's novella, which had inspired her interest in linguistics as a teenager 1. Her role involved reviewing drafts of the screenplay and providing feedback on the portrayal of linguistics and linguists, although not all her suggestions were incorporated 2.

The best committee meeting ever.

--- Jessica Coon

Jessica acknowledges that while the film didn't get everything right, it was a thrilling experience to see her field represented on such a grand scale.

   

Portrayal

The film 'Arrival' offers a fascinating portrayal of linguists, though not without its inaccuracies. Jessica Coon points out that linguists are often mistaken for translators, a misconception highlighted in the film 3. Despite some cringeworthy moments, she appreciates the movie's exploration of how language can alter perception, a concept debated in linguistics 3.

The language that you use changes the way that you perceive the world.

--- Jessica Coon

Jessica also praises the film for its depiction of the challenges in establishing a new language base, a process crucial for communication with the alien visitors 4.