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
12 Days of Viral – DAY FIVE December 17, 2009December 17, 2009On the fifth day of viral, my movie gave to me….. 800 Numbers. So now all of the people that you have been following, chasing, hating, and loving can be called. And the only thing it will cost you, is fun! Upset about your favorite Communications Director not returning your… Read More
Viral Video: Star Wars Episode II – Attack of the Clones 88 Minute Review April 3, 2010April 4, 2010A few months ago, a 70 minute video review of Star Wars Episode I:The Phantom Menace made the rounds on the blogosphere. It was harsh, hilarious, truthful, and sometimes disturbing to watch. This was part of a series of similar styled reviews from YouTuber RedLetterMedia (real name Mike). Fortunately, Mike… Read More
Tron Legacy Viral: Arcade Postcards Being Mailed Out July 1, 2010July 1, 2010Comic-Con is just a few weeks away, so it shouldn’t be a surprise that the Tron Legacy viral campaign has started up again. This week, postcards for various Encom International classic arcade games were sent out to various people, and it looks like they have a code on them. Get… 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.