December 2, 2005

New IMAX® movie spotlights the power of the human brain

The brainpower of MGH neuropathologist Matthew Frosch, MD, PhD, soon will be coming to a theater near you. Frosch was part of an advisory team that lent its scientific expertise to the Partners HealthCare-produced IMAX-format film Wired to Win: Surviving the Tour de France, which explores the capabilities of the human brain. Integrating IMAX technology, cutting-edge computer and medical imagery and real-life racing drama, the movie shows how the brain responds to stimuli and adapts for success as people learn, train and practice. "Part of my job is teaching neuroanatomy to medical students and graduate students," says Frosch. "The chance to extend that to families and children in a way that they can grasp is very exciting."

The film — funded in part by a National Science Foundation grant and co-sponsored by Ortho-McNeil Neurologics, Inc. — is part of a Partners effort to excite young people about brain biology, encourage further study of the sciences and inspire children to pursue careers in the field. More than 300 Boston-area students gathered Dec. 1 with Boston Mayor Thomas Menino at the Museum of Science for the world premiere. The film will open to the public Dec. 9 and will be released nationally in January. Partners is in the process of planning free screenings for employees to be held in 2006. For more information, visit www.wiredtowinthemovie.com