NOVA: The Great Math Mystery

Synopsis

NOVA: The Great Math Mystery, hosted by Jay O. Sanders, explores the captivating universe of mathematics and its profound impact on the world around us. This 2015 documentary delves into the origins, mysteries, and controversies surrounding math, examining why it is so incredibly powerful and seemingly universal. Featuring interviews with renowned mathematicians and scientists, the film investigates the question of whether the language of math is a human invention or a discovery of an inherent cosmic truth. Through engaging visuals and thought-provoking narratives, NOVA reveals how math shapes everyday life — from technology and nature to art and finance — inviting viewers to appreciate the beauty and mystery of numbers like never before.

Cast

• 

  Jay O. Sanders

  Narrator (voice)

• 

  Glenn Kalison

  Actor

• Max Tegmark

  Self

• 

  Esperanza Spalding

  Self

• 

  Sylvester James Gates

  Self

• Adam Steltzner

  Self

Reviews

Critically, NOVA: The Great Math Mystery received generally positive reviews for its accessible and engaging approach to a complex subject. On Rotten Tomatoes, the documentary holds a positive audience score, praised for balancing educational content with compelling storytelling. Critics from The New York Times commended the film for making abstract mathematical concepts understandable and interesting to viewers without prior knowledge, highlighting Jay O. Sanders' clear and inviting narration. Similarly, IMDb users gave it an average rating of 7.3/10, noting that while some sections could be dense, the documentary overall inspires curiosity and admiration for mathematics. However, some reviews mention that the film occasionally leans towards oversimplification, and that viewers seeking deep technical detail might find it lacking. Metacritic does not have a critic score for this title, but viewer ratings align with the sentiment of it being a well-made educational film that sparks fascination with math. Overall, NOVA: The Great Math Mystery is celebrated as a thoughtful exploration that makes math approachable and awe-inspiring for a broad audience.