Robert Downy Jr.

Admittedly complicated and confusing, its solemn concept melds science with drama, fusion with fission, and a multitude of characters with 20th century history, chronicled by cinematographer Hoyte van Hoytema in IMAX 70-millimeter. While the non-linear plot involves creating a top-secret coalition of scientists to build an atomic bomb, it also explores dense themes of coercion, Communism, and collective vision. At its center is soft-spoken theorist J. Robert Oppenheimer (Cillian Murphy), director of the Institute for Advanced Study in Princeton, New Jersey, where he often conversed with eminent Albert Einstein (Tom Conti) about quantum physics.

“There’s a price to be paid to see beyond the world we live”, and J. Robert Oppenheimer certainly spent a lot. Based on the book, American Prometheus, writer/director Christopher Nolan’s three hour sweeping saga of science and self-importance is three movies in one. The first hour is Oppenheimer’s story. Where he came from and what kind of man he was. The second hour is all about building a deadly explosive device from conception to detonation. The third hour is the effects and affects of dropping the Atomic Bomb on an unprepared world. So you can call Oppenheimer a biography, an historical thriller and a psychological drama. Where Nolan misses the mark is letting the film jump around without fully identifying all the characters. It’s also not bombastic enough (pun intended) for the average movie goer. Oppenheimer is more theoretical than theatrical. In other words, there’s not a lot of action. Sparks don’t really fly till the last act.

It’s just early summer and we already have a strong Oscar contender with Christopher Nolan’s new historical drama. I will say, I haven’t been a fan of Nolan’s last three films – Interstellar, Dunkirk, and Tenet were just too convoluted, boring, and loud. However, I am pleased to say, Oppenheimer is one the director’s best films to date. Oppenheimer is a poignant and engaging character study revolving around a true story that all audiences must-see.