Learn the Math Behind CBS Show Numb3rs Dan Koelsch, February 21, 2010 There are a lot of procedural shows on right now, shows in which a problem is introduced, investigated and solved all within the same episode (think CSI, Bones, almost every one hour show other than LOST). Many have gimmicks to try to separate them from the bunch (his partner is a psychic!), and one of my favorite gimmick procedurals is Numb3rs on CBS. There’s a nifty website created to supplement the show. The show centers on the Los Angeles branch of the FBI, where agent Eppes (rob Morrow) has a brother who is a math genius and professor at Cal Tech. Each episode has Professor Eppes (David Krumholtz) using advanced mathematics to help solve a case. For us regular folk, this stuff goes over our head, but if you are interested in the math, Wolfram (makers of software Mathematica) have teamed up with the show to help you out. Wolfram’s Numb3rs website goes through each episode and explains the mathematical principals the characters are using or talking about. The well designed site is meant to look like a case file being opened, and you can watch videos that show the math. For a much more detailed look at the science, each concept has a link to it’s own Wolfram page. It’s nice to know that the characters aren’t talking gibberish, and this kind of stuff can actually work. Numb3rs airs Fridays at 10/9c on CBS. Viral Marketing CBSNumb3rsNumbers
Follow Greendale’s Best and Brightest on Twitter January 30, 2010January 30, 2010Say what you will about NBC’s recent late night disaster, but the network has been at the forefront of incorporating viral media into their programs – particularly with their Thursday night shows. Well, the tradition continues with their rookie comedy, Community. Read More
Receive a Call From the Takers August 20, 2010Briefly: Sony Pictures has tried a few viral marketing attempts to gain interest in the upcoming heist film Takers, starring Chris Brown, rapper T.I., and an ensemble cast. Their latest gimmick is to let you get a call from one of the “Takers” on opening day, August 27th. Sign up… Read More
Nathan Fillion and Others Use Twitter To Tease New Joss Whedon Project October 24, 2011It’s hard to keep a secret in Hollywood, especially when big names are involved. It’s rare to not even know that a film is in the works until principal photography is complete, but we have just that with Joss Whedon’s latest project titled Much Ado About Nothing. Find out more… Read More
The show’s “Chain Factor” ARG is still my favorite example of integrating the viral with the tv show. Took the premise from the Primacy and extended it seamlessly (which is pretty difficult, after watching the episode’s resolution) onto the web and into the real world.