Coffee is an acquired taste because it is inherently bitter. But Starbucks has made a fortune by sweetening and spicing it up. The makers of Flatland and its sequel, Flatland2:Sphereland, have done something similar by adding the spices of colorful animation and a good story to transform otherwise dry math and physics concepts into a more palatable form. These two films are entertaining educational tools that can grab the attention of students and invite them to ask questions about the nature of space and how math can help us understand our physical reality. These animated films feature characters that are physically and emotionally colorful and the plot has enough drama and humor to guide the viewer through various math concepts without breaking a pencil. The math/physics concepts presented are spatial dimensions zero to four and beyond, including the multiverse. The non-mathematical theme of these films is to keep an open mind and follow your convictions. Even the kiss between two Flatlanders in Sphereland will give the viewers something to think about. Teachers will love it and some of the students will be asking for a refill.
Review of Flatland 2: Sphereland
