Linus Pauling, Crusading Scientist

New Scientist, the British magazine, ranks Pauling among the 20 most influential scientists in history, in company with Darwin, Galileo and Newton. Einstein, the only other 20th century scientist listed, described Pauling as "one of the most prominent and inventive scientists of this century." Pauling remains the only person to have ever received two unshared Nobel Prizes. He died in August 1994 at the age of 93.

"Excellent, interesting, impressive." -San Francisco Chronicle
"Substantial, fascinating, enjoyable." -New York Times
"Rare and valuable portrait of a rare and valuable human being."
-Seattle Times

The documentary traces Pauling's unique achievements as both scientist and peace crusader. His first Nobel, awarded in 1954, was for chemistry. Pauling enthusiastically describes the events leading up to this award while innovative footage depicts his research into the structure of matter, his role in the science of molecular biology, and his race against Watson and Crick for the discovery of the double helix.

Linus Pauling was the first person to apply quantum mechanics to chemistry. He was the first to explain how atoms combine to form molecules and the nature of the chemical bond. He invented the concept of electronegativity and solved the mystery behind sickle cell anemia disease. His Vitamin C crusade is also frankly depicted.

Pauling became one of America's most controversial figures in the early 1960s when he helped lead the "Ban the Bomb" campaign and appeared as the featured guest before a hostile panel of "Meet the Press" interviewers. His persistence and leadership led to Pauling's second Nobel award. His Nobel Prize for Peace was announced in 1962 on the day President John F. Kennedy signed the Limited Nuclear Test Ban Treaty.

"Linus Pauling, Crusading Scientist" is both a warm, personal biography and a scientific adventure through some of the most compelling moments of the last century. It is about a genuine American original, an inspiration to students, aspiring chemists, activists and anyone interested in learning about an extraordinary human being.

On the occasion of Linus Pauling's 90th birthday: "Pauling has been a larger-than-life figure his whole career for his ground-breaking work in explaining chemical bonds and his humanitarian concerns. But equally important has been his unwavering enthusiasm for scientific research over the decades...a phenomenal scientist who inspires generations of chemists." Harry B. Gray, Beckman Institute Director California Institute of Technology

American Film Festival, Red Ribbon Award