Secrets of the SurfaceThe Mathematical Vision of Maryam Mirzakhani
An examination of the tragically brief life and spectacular mathematical work of Maryam Mirzakhani, an Iranian immigrant to the United States who became a superstar in her field. In 2014, she was both the first woman and the first Iranian to be honoured by mathematics’ highest prize, the Fields Medal.
Maryam Mirzakhani’s mathematics is often described by her colleagues as deeply beautiful. This film raises the possibility that her approach to shapes and surfaces is somehow linked to the spectacularly beautiful patterns and motifs in Iranian art. The elaborate tiles and structures around the Jameh Mosque in Isfahan allow us to imagine these connections.
Mirzakhani’s contributions are explained by leading mathematicians and illustrated by animated sequences. Mathematical colleagues from around the world, as well as former teachers, classmates, and students in Iran today, convey the deep impact of her achievements.
Director
George CSICSERY
Country
USA
Year
2020
