For me, Crichton was an introduction to the pop-culture possibilities of science. From the quasi-possible book and movie "The Andromeda Strain" to my favorite "Jurrasic Park" , to his take on Japan / American economic and corporate relations "Rising Sun" and of course the popular television show "ER", Crichton's work never failed to entertain and inform.
This video shows some of his books that were made into movies:
