10 Must-Watch Documentaries on Maths Education

Description: While not strictly a documentary, this film is based on the true story of Srinivasa Ramanujan, an Indian mathematician whose contributions to number theory were groundbreaking. It's a testament to the power of mathematical education and the human spirit.

Fact: The film features a stellar performance by Dev Patel as Ramanujan, bringing his story to life.

Description: This documentary delves into the world of cryptography, showing how mathematical education plays a crucial role in modern security systems. It's an eye-opener on how numbers protect our digital lives.

Fact: The film features interviews with experts like Simon Singh, who wrote "The Code Book."

Description: A comprehensive series that traces the history of mathematics from ancient civilizations to modern times. It's an educational journey that highlights how mathematical education has evolved and influenced various cultures and eras.

Fact: The series was presented by Marcus du Sautoy, a renowned mathematician and professor at Oxford University.

Description: This documentary explores the life of John Nash, a mathematical genius whose work in game theory won him a Nobel Prize, but whose personal life was marred by schizophrenia. It's a poignant look at the intersection of brilliance and mental health, offering insights into how mathematical education can both enlighten and challenge the mind.

Fact: The film was inspired by Sylvia Nasar's biography of Nash, "A Beautiful Mind," but focuses more on his mathematical contributions rather than his personal struggles.

Description: Focuses on Andrew Wiles' quest to prove Fermat's Last Theorem, one of the most famous unsolved problems in mathematics. This documentary captures the dedication and passion required to tackle such a monumental challenge, providing an inspiring look at mathematical education and discovery.

Fact: Wiles worked in secret for seven years before revealing his proof, which was initially flawed but later corrected.

Description: Explores the concept of chaos theory, showing how seemingly random events can have underlying mathematical patterns. It's a fascinating look at how mathematical education can help us understand the complexity of nature.

Fact: The documentary was inspired by the book "Chaos: Making a New Science" by James Gleick.

Description: A series that celebrates the beauty and joy of mathematics, making complex concepts accessible and engaging. It's perfect for anyone looking to reignite their passion for maths or discover its wonders for the first time.

Fact: Presented by Hannah Fry, a mathematician known for her ability to make maths fun and accessible.

Description: This documentary explores how geometry shapes our world, from the natural patterns in nature to the design of cities. It's an educational journey into how mathematical education influences our environment.

Fact: The film was directed by Michael Benson, known for his work in visual arts and science.

Description: A unique documentary that uses mathematical models to explore human relationships, showing how numbers can help us understand love, attraction, and compatibility. It's a quirky yet insightful look at how mathematical education can apply to everyday life.

Fact: The film was inspired by the book "The Mathematics of Love" by Hannah Fry.

Description: This documentary delves into the intersection of art and mathematics, showing how mathematical principles underpin many artistic creations. It's an educational and visually stunning exploration of how mathematical education can inspire creativity.

Fact: The film features interviews with artists and mathematicians, highlighting the surprising connections between their fields.