In class we've discussed a number of very odd topics. If it's not Frankenstein or viruses that make ants kill themselves, it's undoubtedly something just as weird. Knowing that the realm of weird science spanned a ton of topics I knew my second project could be an array of things. This was a relief and a headache. I usually work best when given a specific task, a deadline and/or maybe even a little instruction. Have this type of freedom was intimidating. It wasn't until I found an experiment on an MIT website that was equal parts weird and fun.

The experiment was odd enough to make me think twice about it, but after a quick replay of the cinematic masterpiece Demolition Man I wholeheartedly decided to do it.

This project, at its core, was about cryogenics. More specifically, it was about life and its restoration. To illustrate this theme, I needed to cryogenically freeze a bug and then restore it after it's been attached to a small matchstick-plane. I know, it's really weird. To give this little experiment context, I chose to give the plane and it's "motor" a purpose.

Set in early 20th century United States, the "bug plane" is offered as a simple way of communication and self-defense. Opposed to the flies used by the MIT students, I used a wasp that I collected from my back porch. Using flies were my original intention, but I learned that you can't just go to the store and buy a few. I had to suck it up and confront that waspy little pest that I despise (pun intended) in order to try and make my plane fly. At the end of the experiment my plane failed to take off. However, I was able to revive the wasp after it spent 4 solid minutes in a freezer. I consider that a huge success.

Newsreel music is looped partly for effect and partly because I could only find a one minute soundbite. If it gets annoying I apologize. I hope you enjoy watching as much as I enjoyed making.