Oppenheimer (2024), directed by Christopher Nolan, is a historical drama that chronicles the life of J. Robert Oppenheimer, the American physicist who played a pivotal role in the development of the atomic bomb during World War II. The film explores his complex character, his moral struggles, and the weight of the decisions he made as the head of the Manhattan Project. It delves into the tension between scientific discovery and the destructive potential of that knowledge, emphasizing Oppenheimer’s internal conflict as he navigates the moral implications of creating such a weapon.
The film also touches on the broader political and personal dynamics of the time, including Oppenheimer’s relationships with key figures like General Leslie Groves and fellow scientists, as well as his eventual fallout with the government. As the bomb is dropped on Hiroshima and Nagasaki, Oppenheimer’s feelings of guilt and his role in the aftermath shape his legacy. Oppenheimer provides a profound exploration of the intersection of science, ethics, and power.