RIVERSIDE, Calif. (May 28, 2014) – A science class offered this fall at California Baptist University will approach the subject of physics in a whole new way.

PHY 112 The Physics of Hollywood is described as "a study of optics, cameras, lighting, sound, analog vs. digital processes, polarization and the 3-D movie making process." The class is designed for students in theater, graphic design, music, film studies, communications and art. It will focus on laws of physics including Faraday's Law and Ampere's Law in such a way to help students better relate them, said Dr. Jim Buchholz, professor of mathematics and physics. For instance, they will learn how to build speakers and microphones and how concert halls work.

"The whole class is about showing," he said. "I want them to see it in action."

In his 25 years of teaching at CBU, Buchholz has changed his opinion about general education classes. He said he now wants classes to be more interdisciplinary.

"I want people to walk away from science class being able to apply it to their major," he said.

The Physics of Hollywood will offer a lecture and lab that will be almost indistinguishable, with students alternating between class and lab work.

Buchholz's interest in Hollywood is partly a result of his involvement in the entertainment industry for many years. He started out as a stand-up comic and was one of seven finalists on the American Collegiate Talent Showcase in 1985. He has made short films that have been released at film festivals in California, Canada and Italy, and he recently finished another short. He is also on the board of the Riverside International Film Festival.