Movies for use in public health training: a pilot method for movie selection and initial results.

Background: A method for systematically identifying, selecting, and ranking high quality movies for public health training does not exist. We therefore aimed to pilot a method and use it to generate an initial selection of suitable movies in a range of public health categories. Methods: To identify possible movies, systematic searches were undertaken of two large movie databases. If meeting minimal criteria for entertainment value (using public and critic ratings), the movies were then systematically evaluated for training suitability. Results: Using the search strategy we developed, it appeared feasible to systematically identify movies of potential educational value for public health training. Out of a total of 29 movies selected for viewing and more detailed assessment, the top ranked 15 were selected as having reasonable potential for training. There was a high correlation between scores of the movie assessors (Spearman’s rho = 0.80, p<0.00001). Also 75% of the top 15 movies were found to be referred to in Medline-indexed publications. Conclusion: This pilot study was able to develop a method for systematically identifying and selecting movies that could potentially be used for public health training. The list of 15 top public health movies could be further evaluated with medical and other health science students.