Oppenheimer Review: Christopher Nolan's Monumental Biopic

Christopher Nolan has once again captivated audiences with his latest film, "Oppenheimer." This monumental biopic delves into the life and work of J Robert Oppenheimer, the renowned theoretical physicist often referred to as the "father of the atomic bomb." With its ambitious scope and intricate storytelling, "Oppenheimer" goes beyond the traditional biopic genre, exploring themes of scientific discovery, the perils of unchecked ambition, and the devastating consequences of human innovation.

A Monster Movie in Period Piece Clothing
"Oppenheimer" is not your typical biopic. It seamlessly blends elements of courtroom drama, romantic entanglements, and scientific breakthroughs, all within a web of intertwining timelines. At its core, the film transcends the boundaries of traditional biographical storytelling, manifesting as the ultimate monster movie. Cillian Murphy delivers a captivating performance as Oppenheimer, portraying him as an atomic-age Frankenstein, a man consumed by the immense potential of science, only to realize the boundless capacity for destruction his creation possesses. However, the true monster in this narrative is not Oppenheimer's invention but rather the insatiable hunger for annihilation it awakens within humanity. This realization is palpable in Murphy's haunting portrayal, his far-seeing eyes reflecting the weight of his character's choices.

The Physicality of Oppenheimer
Cillian Murphy's physicality adds another layer of depth to the film's narrative. Oppenheimer is depicted as a slight and almost ethereal figure, a stark contrast to the robust military figures he interacts with. Matt Damon's commanding portrayal of Lt Gen Leslie Groves, for instance, exemplifies strength and determination, a clenched fist searching for a target. In one scene, Oppenheimer struggles under the weight of his accumulated knowledge, carrying armfuls of books into a new classroom. This moment captures the burden he carries as a brilliant mind in a world of complex ideas. At other times, Oppenheimer appears calm and composed, seemingly detached from the egos and collaborative exchanges that shape the creation of the ultimate weapon.

"Given Nolan's preference for shooting on Imax 70mm film, the picture has a depth of detail you could drown in." - The Guardian

Nolan's meticulous attention to detail is evident in every frame of "Oppenheimer." By shooting on Imax 70mm film, the film captures a depth of detail that immerses the audience in the world of Oppenheimer. From scenes of frenzied blackboard scribbling, symbolizing scientific genius, to abstract moments that transport viewers to the heart of the atom itself, the sets and visuals create a tangible sense of presence. Furthermore, the sets themselves seem to tremble during moments of tension, mirroring the shockwaves unleashed by the physicist's groundbreaking discoveries.

Unraveling Timelines and Narrative Structure
"Oppenheimer" presents a complex narrative structure, weaving together multiple timelines and perspectives. Each appearance of Oppenheimer on screen serves as a marker, indicating the specific timeline being explored. The film intercuts Oppenheimer's early academic successes with a later security clearance hearing that scrutinizes every aspect of his life. Simultaneously, it juxtaposes the development of the Manhattan Project, the secretive initiative behind the atomic bomb, with a Senate hearing examining the suitability of Oppenheimer's former colleague for a government role. This intricate mesh of timelines creates a sense of non-linearity, with certain pivotal moments, such as Oppenheimer's encounter with Albert Einstein, feeling detached from the film's overall chronology. Nolan's films often demand multiple viewings to fully unravel their complexities, and "Oppenheimer" is no exception.

The Treatment of Female Characters
While "Oppenheimer" stands as a towering achievement, it is not without flaws. One notable criticism is the cursory treatment of its female characters. Florence Pugh's portrayal of Jean Tatlock, Oppenheimer's mistress, is given insufficient depth. Similarly, Emily Blunt's depiction of Kitty Oppenheimer, J Robert's wife, often finds her relegated to the periphery of the frame, clutching a martini with an air of mutiny. However, Blunt does seize moments to shine later in the film, showcasing her talent in a searing interrogation scene and conveying the nuclear winter of her animosity through a wordless glare directed at a disloyal colleague.

The Power of Sound and Music
In line with Nolan's masterful use of sound and music, "Oppenheimer" employs these elements to convey the horrors of war and the weight of Oppenheimer's work. Ludwig Goransson's score is a tour de force, ranking among the finest of the year. The soundscape features a recurring motif of thunderously stamping feet, initially representing a moment of triumph and glory in Oppenheimer's career. However, with each subsequent use, the motif takes on a mounting sense of threat, symbolizing the catastrophic potential unleashed by the physicist's groundbreaking research.

Conclusion
Christopher Nolan's "Oppenheimer" stands as a monumental achievement in the realm of biopics. Through its fusion of genres and intricate storytelling, the film transcends the boundaries of traditional narratives, exploring profound themes of scientific ambition, the consequences of human innovation, and the destructive capabilities of unchecked power. Cillian Murphy's captivating performance, alongside the film's meticulous attention to detail and masterful use of sound and music, elevates "Oppenheimer" to a cinematic experience that demands multiple viewings to fully unravel its intricacies. Despite its flaws in the treatment of female characters, the film leaves a lasting impact, reminding audiences of the enduring consequences of the atomic age and the moral complexities associated with scientific progress.