Jessica Coon

Field linguist Jessica Coon from McGill University, who consulted on 'Arrival,' joins to explore the film's innovative take on linguistics. She highlights the film's accurate and inaccurate portrayals of language and communication with aliens. Coon discusses the challenges of getting inside an extraterrestrial mind and critiques Hollywood's depiction of scientists. Furthermore, she shines a light on the empowering representation of female scientists through the film's lead character, offering a fresh perspective on women's roles in science.

Jessica Coon, a field linguist from McGill University and consultant on the film 'Arrival', discusses the fascinating intersection of linguistics and extraterrestrial communication. She reveals what the film gets right and wrong about language. Coon explores the challenges Hollywood faces in portraying scientific accuracy and shares insights on the emotional depth of the narrative. The conversation also touches on the significant cultural impact of featuring a female lead in science fiction, challenging stereotypes in both science and linguistics.