The film begins in the 1930s, tracing Oppenheimer’s rise in the scientific community, his recruitment to the Manhattan Project, and his eventual leadership of the effort to build the atomic bomb. Nolan takes a non-linear approach, shifting between various timelines and events, particularly focusing on Oppenheimer’s internal struggles and the growing conflict between his patriotism and the devastating implications of the weapon they were creating.
As the project progresses, Oppenheimer becomes increasingly conflicted about the potential consequences of the bomb. The film delves into his complex relationships with colleagues, superiors, and political figures, including the tension with General Leslie Groves (Matt Damon), who oversees the Manhattan Project, and the ethical dilemmas posed by Oppenheimer’s own conscience. The narrative also highlights his connections to left-wing politics and his complicated personal life, particularly with his wife, Kitty (Emily Blunt), and his former lover, Jean Tatlock (Florence Pugh).
The bomb’s successful detonation in the 1945 Trinity Test is a pivotal moment in the film, capturing the intense emotion and weight of the achievement. Nolan uses this event to pose questions about scientific responsibility, the ethical use of technology, and the devastating impact of unleashing nuclear weapons. As Oppenheimer grapples with the aftermath, the film shifts toward the political fallout, with Oppenheimer facing scrutiny and distrust from the U.S. government during the Red Scare, culminating in his 1954 security hearing, where his loyalty and judgment are publicly questioned.
Visually, Oppenheimer is stunning, utilizing IMAX cameras and practical effects to convey the magnitude of the bomb’s creation and detonation. The film’s pacing is deliberate, with tension mounting in every scene, whether it’s a quiet conversation or the bomb’s catastrophic explosion.
Oppenheimer Movie’s Screenshot
