Hollywood movies often opt for spectacle over substance, especially when discussing wars and violence. But Christopher Nolan’s Oppenheimer is not one of them.
This isn’t a typical biopic, neatly packaged with emotional highs and lows. It’s a complex creation that examines the life, work, and moral dilemmas of J. Robert Oppenheimer, the “father of the atomic bomb.”
With a cast full of stars, a gripping storyline, and thought-provoking themes, “Oppenheimer” is a film that demands to be discussed.
A three-part symphony
It can be argued that the film is structured in three parts, although Nolan doesn’t follow a linear narrative.
The first part sets the stage, introducing us to the scientific community of the time and their worries before and during the war. It’s the beginning of the atomic age, giving us a glimpse into the world in which Oppenheimer and his colleagues played a leading role.
The second part is where the tension kicks in. It’s a detailed look at the making of the atomic bomb and the Manhattan Project. You’re on the edge of your seat as the scientists work against the clock to prepare and test the bomb.
Finally, in the third part, Nolan doesn’t fall for cheap action and easy virtue signaling but delves into the personal, moral, and social aftermath of Oppenheimer’s actions.
A pleasant surprise
This final part appears to be the biggest surprise. Although most viewers would anticipate a typical Hollywood escalation after the successful testing of the bomb, Nolan doesn’t give us the easy, emotional shots of the bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki.
And that’s a badge of honor for the director.
He never forgets to present the story through the protagonist’s eyes. He is not concerned with shocking images and documentary-like scenes about the tragic events that followed the bombing—we have all seen them anyway.
Instead, he focuses squarely on Oppenheimer and the ethical questions he faces. It’s a brave choice, and it adds a layer of intellectual depth to the film.
Stars and music
Oppenheimer’s cast is a parade of Hollywood’s finest, and it’s clear that Nolan’s reputation has pulled in some big names.
Robert Downey Jr., in particular, stands out, delivering a performance that’s already generating Oscar buzz. But it’s not just about star power. Most actors bring depth to their roles and add weight to the story.
A story that is elevated once more by Ludwig Goransson’s music, which is not just there to fill the silence.
The score is powerful, elevating key moments and making them even more impactful.
It’s like the icing on the cake, adding an extra layer of tension to a film that’s already packed with it.
Nolan’s storytelling
Nolan’s play with time, a technique that has become his signature style, is also present in Oppenheimer, like in most of his movies.
His storytelling doesn’t give us a straightforward, linear narrative. Instead, he plays with time, weaving the past and the present together in a way that adds complexity to the story.
He even throws in some black-and-white scenes, not to signal a shift in time but to change how we perceive what’s happening depending on how close we are to the protagonist.
Personal missteps
There is maybe only one area where Nolan didn’t hit as successfully as the others.
While the film excels at exploring Oppenheimer’s professional life and ethical dilemmas, it stumbles in its exploration of his personal life.
Especially the subplot involving his relationship with his mistress feels out of place. It does not fit well into the overall story and distracts rather than adds to it.
For example, Nolan’s attempt to add a “sophisticated” sex scene could be viewed as quite brave given the director’s otherwise prudish style, but it eventually feels somehow disconnected from the movie’s overall tone and style.
Conclusion
“Oppenheimer” is a film that demands your attention from start to finish. It’s a complex, multi-layered story that blends strong performances, clever storytelling, and thought-provoking themes into a compelling whole.
In a world that often prefers simple answers to complex questions, “Oppenheimer” makes a difference.
It doesn’t just entertain. It challenges you to think, question, and look beyond the surface.
As Nolan best knows how to do.
