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Based on the life of J. Robert Oppenheimer and the development of the atomic bomb, it's the perfect time to explore other movies that delve into the world of science, inventions, and groundbreaking discoveries.
These films not only entertain but also teach us about the incredible minds and events that have shaped our world today.
So, grab some popcorn and get ready to embark on a cinematic journey through history with these top 10 movies to watch if you love Oppenheimer.
1. The Imitation Game (2014)
This gripping biopic, directed by Morten Tyldum, stars Benedict Cumberbatch as Alan Turing, the brilliant British mathematician, and cryptanalyst responsible for cracking the Nazi's Enigma Machine during World War II. Despite his immense contributions to ending the war and being considered the father of artificial intelligence, Turing faced discrimination for his homosexuality. The Imitation Game is a powerful and poignant portrayal of Turing's life, showcasing both the triumphs and tragedies of a genius at work.
A Beautiful Performance
Cumberbatch's portrayal of Turing is both beautiful and tragic, as we witness the character's struggles with the pressures of genius and the fight against inner and outer demons within a homophobic 1939 England. If you enjoy watching characters spend sleepless nights mulling over equations and puzzles, then The Imitation Game is the perfect Oppenheimer primer.
2. Hidden Figures (2016)
Directed by Theodore Melfi, Hidden Figures is an inspiring film that tells the story of three African American female mathematicians – Katherine Johnson (Taraji P. Henson), Dorothy Vaughan (Octavia Spencer), and Mary Jackson (Janelle Monae) – working at NASA during the 1960s. Their intelligence and calculations played a crucial role in the successful launch of astronaut John Glenn into orbit.
A Social Breakthrough
Though not strictly a scientific breakthrough, Hidden Figures is a story worth admiring, as it shines a light on the groundbreaking achievements of these unsung heroines in a time when racial and gender discrimination was rampant. While Oppenheimer may be a less celebratory affair, Hidden Figures is still a perfect addition to any scientist's film collection.
3. The Theory of Everything (2014)
This moving biopic, directed by James Marsh, tells the story of one of the world's most influential people – famed physicist Stephen Hawking. With an incredible performance by Eddie Redmayne, we see Hawking's early life, his scientific revelations, and his struggle with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS). Although not entirely accurate in its depiction of true events, The Theory of Everything excels in portraying a man battling against time, himself, and love.
A Shared Influence
Like J. Robert Oppenheimer, Stephen Hawking changed the way we perceive science and the limitations (or lack thereof) of physics as a whole. As you prepare for Oppenheimer, watching The Theory of Everything will remind you of the immense impact that scientists can have on our world.
4. Interstellar (2014)
As a distant relative to the upcoming Oppenheimer, Christopher Nolan's Interstellar is a must-watch for fans of science fiction and adventure. Starring Matthew McConaughey and Anne Hathaway, this film follows astronauts Cooper and Brand on a quest to find a new home for humanity among the stars.
A Journey Through Space and Time
Interstellar is filled with scientific breakthroughs that mirror real-life theories, as well as heart-wrenching character arcs. As Cooper travels through wormholes and grapples with the personal consequences of pursuing scientific discovery, we can't help but anticipate similar themes in Nolan's Oppenheimer.
5. A Beautiful Mind (2001)
This critically acclaimed film, directed by Ron Howard, showcases the emotional life and achievements of mathematician John Forbes Nash Jr., played by Russell Crowe. Nash earned a Nobel Prize in economics while learning to live with schizophrenia. A Beautiful Mind focuses more on Nash's mental health than the details surrounding his work, but his story is worth watching to gain awareness of this diagnosis and the pressures of success in the field of science.
Self-Discovery and Science
A Beautiful Mind reminds us that personal growth and self-discovery can be just as important as scientific achievements. As we prepare for the release of Oppenheimer, this film offers valuable insight into the complexities of the human mind and the challenges faced by those who dare to push the boundaries of knowledge.
6. The Man Who Knew Infinity (2015)
In this captivating biopic, Dev Patel delivers an iconic performance as real-life mathematician Srinivasa Ramanujan. Born into a lower-class family in India, Ramanujan eventually made his way to England to attend Cambridge University, where he made groundbreaking contributions to mathematical theory during World War I.
Overcoming Adversity
Directed by Matthew Brown, The Man Who Knew Infinity depicts Ramanujan's battle against racial prejudice at Cambridge and his struggle with tuberculosis. This classic tale, akin to The Theory of Everything, is bound to put viewers in the mood for Oppenheimer.
7. Radioactive (2019)
This compelling period drama, directed by Marjane Satrapi, tells the story of Marie Curie, the first woman to win two Nobel Prizes in different fields – physics and chemistry. Starring Rosamund Pike, Radioactive portrays the life and work of Curie, as well as the unintended deadly consequences of her scientific discoveries.
Parallel Paths
Radioactive draws a striking parallel to what we can expect from Oppenheimer, as a misunderstood scientific discovery results in the deaths of countless individuals. As you watch Marie Curie grapple with the horrors she's unleashed upon the world, you'll be ready to dive into the complex world of Oppenheimer and his role in the creation of the atomic bomb.
8. Arrival (2016)
Directed by Denis Villeneuve, Arrival is a captivating sci-fi drama starring Amy Adams and Jeremy Renner. The film follows the arrival of alien spacecraft across the globe and humanity's attempts to communicate with the mysterious visitors.
Unfolding Revelations
As linguist Louise Banks (Adams) begins to establish a dialogue with the aliens, she experiences a series of life-altering revelations. Although leaning more towards fiction, Arrival is an entrancing film that makes viewers feel as if they're making discoveries alongside its characters. Its grand scale and sense of wonder make it a perfect appetizer for the upcoming Oppenheimer.
9. Tesla (2020)
This biopic, starring Ethan Hawke, tells the story of famed inventor Nikola Tesla and his journey to find his purpose. Despite his many inventions, including electrical motors and machines, Tesla's work never received the international acclaim it deserved during his lifetime.
For History Lovers
Directed by Michael Almereyda, Tesla is essential for history buffs and fans of Nolan's The Prestige (2006). While it may not be the highest-reviewed film on this list, it's perfect for getting your science gears spinning just in time for Oppenheimer next year.
10. 2001: A Space Odyssey (1968)
Stanley Kubrick's classic sci-fi film, 2001: A Space Odyssey, explores themes of evolution, scientific advancement, and the consequences of hubris on a grand scale. The suspenseful story unfolds as HAL, an A.I., begins to antagonize its creators while astronauts attempt to solve a deep-space mystery that could cost them their lives.
The Dangers of Discovery
This timeless masterpiece serves as a reminder that scientific discoveries can lead to both salvation and destruction. As you prepare for Oppenheimer, 2001: A Space Odyssey will leave you pondering the potential consequences of humanity's relentless pursuit of knowledge.
Conclusion
As you embark on this cinematic journey through history and science, you'll be well-prepared to dive into the world of J. Robert Oppenheimer and the creation of the atomic bomb. These 10 films offer a fascinating glimpse into the lives of the brilliant minds and groundbreaking discoveries that have shaped our world – and may just leave you with a newfound appreciation for the power and potential of human ingenuity.