Fermat’s Last Theorem Documentary

This is an engaging, accessible, and surprisingly moving documentary about Andrew Wiles and his lifelong pursuit of Fermat’s Last Theorem:

http://video.google.com/videoplay?docid=8269328330690408516

Although the mathematics of the proof could not possibly be explained to the layperson (there aren’t many people in the world who could really understand it in its entirety), this BBC documentary does a great job of narrating the struggles, setbacks, and triumphs of Wiles’ pursuit.

The story of the hero and the many peripheral characters (including John Conway) opens a wonderful window into the world of advanced mathematics.