Harsh Vardhan
In the realm of Christopher Nolan’s cinematic vision, ‘Oppenheimer‘ stands as a gripping biographical thriller, showcasing Cillian Murphy‘s portrayal of the multifaceted life of J. Robert Oppenheimer, the renowned physicist credited with creating the atomic bomb. Adapted from Kai Bird and Martin J. Sherwin’s ‘American Prometheus,’ the narrative intricately explores Oppenheimer’s academic pursuits, his pivotal role in the Manhattan Project during World War II, and the compelling saga of his 1954 security hearing-induced downfall.
Emily Blunt breathes authenticity into the character of Oppenheimer’s wife, “Kitty,” while Matt Damon, Robert Downey Jr., and Florence Pugh contribute to the exceptional ensemble cast. Nolan’s direction elevates ‘Oppenheimer’ beyond the conventional biopic, providing a captivating examination of brilliance, sacrifice, and the multifaceted layers that define historical figures. For an enthralling exploration of complexities surrounding historical figures and pivotal moments, here are eight films like ‘Oppenheimer’ on Netflix that you should consider checking out.
10. The Catcher Was a Spy (2018)
Based on the book ‘The Catcher Was a Spy: The Mysterious Life of Moe Berg’ by Nicholas Dawidoff, ‘The Catcher Was a Spy’ is directed by Ben Lewin. It centers on major league catcher Morris “Moe” Berg (Paul Rudd), whom the Office of Strategic Services (precursor to the CIA) recruits during World War II. He is tasked with killing German theoretical physicist Werner Heisenberg, considered the mastermind behind a potential atomic bomb for Adolf Hitler and, thereby, a primary threat to the United States. Two very crucial elements connect ‘The Catcher Was a Spy’ to ‘Oppenheimer,’ World War II and Germany. While not as intimate in depicting the protagonist as Nolan, Lewin offers an effective war drama that can be watched here.
9. Return to Space (2022)
Directed by Jimmy Chin and Elizabeth Chai Vasarhelyi, ‘Return to Space’ is a riveting Netflix documentary chronicling Elon Musk’s two-decade quest, alongside SpaceX employees, to redefine space exploration and transport NASA astronauts to the International Space Station. Similar to Christopher Nolan’s ‘Oppenheimer,’ which scrutinizes the moral complexities of nuclear science through J. Robert Oppenheimer’s narrative, ‘Return to Space’ explores the ethical dimensions of space travel. It portrays Musk’s ambitious journey with SpaceX, drawing parallels to Oppenheimer’s commitment to scientific advancements, as both narratives navigate the intersection of visionary pursuits, technological innovation, and the intricate moral dilemmas faced by key figures in their respective fields. The film features Elon Musk and NASA members, providing an intimate look at the dynamic personalities driving progress in space exploration. You can watch it here.
8. Kardec (2019)
‘Kardec,’ directed by Wagner de Assis, unfolds a captivating biographical narrative delving into the life of Allan Kardec, a key figure in the development of Spiritism. Wagner de Assis skillfully navigates the moral complexities of spiritual exploration, mirroring Christopher Nolan’s ‘Oppenheimer,’ which scrutinizes nuclear science’s ethical dimensions through J. Robert Oppenheimer. The film, akin to ‘Oppenheimer,’ portrays the commitment to visionary pursuits and moral dilemmas historical figures face. Starring Leonardo Medeiros and Sandra Corveloni, ‘Kardec’ offers a thought-provoking exploration of intellectual inquiry and spiritualism, paralleling the intricate layers defining individuals who shape history. You can watch ‘Kardec’ here.
7. Munich: Edge of War (2021)
‘Munich: Edge of War‘ parallels ‘Oppenheimer’ in exploring historical figures navigating the moral complexities of wartime decisions. Directed by Christian Schwochow, the film delves into the diplomatic negotiations leading up to World War II, echoing Christopher Nolan’s scrutiny of the ethical dilemmas faced by J. Robert Oppenheimer in nuclear science. ‘Munich: Edge of War’ portrays the tension and moral ambiguity surrounding political decisions, drawing parallels to Oppenheimer’s struggles with the consequences of scientific advancements. Starring George MacKay, Jannis Niewöhner, and Liv Lisa Fries, the film offers a gripping portrayal of individuals grappling with the weight of their actions amidst global conflict. ‘Munich: Edge of War’ can be watched here.
6. Shirley (2024)
‘Shirley’ showcases the life and career of first-ever Black congresswoman Shirley Chisholm. Regina King plays the courageous woman who singlehandedly changed the course of American politics, taking steps and making decisions whose effects have contributed to the country’s progress and continue to do so. From becoming the first black candidate to seek and receive a major party nomination to competing against Richard Nixon in the 1972 presidential run, Shirley is a pathbreaker who fought against a misogynistic system and racist society to achieve all that she has.
Directed by John Ridley, the film showcases all these events and her personal life, including her relationship with her sister and the Black Panther Party. What connects ‘Shirley’ to ‘Oppenheimer’ is the humongous feat Shirley Chisolm achieved by going against the accepted norm, much like Oppenheimer, who swam against the tide for what he believed in. You can watch the rich drama right here.
5. The Resistance Banker (2018)
Directed by Joram Lürsen, ‘The Resistance Banker’ intertwines with ‘Oppenheimer’ by exploring historical figures grappling with moral complexities. While Christopher Nolan’s film scrutinizes nuclear ethics, ‘The Resistance Banker’ taps into the World War II resistance efforts of banker Walraven van Hall. Lürsen, like Nolan, navigates the intricate moral dimensions his protagonist faces. Starring Barry Atsma, Jacob Derwig, and Pierre Bokma, the film highlights van Hall’s financial maneuvers against the Nazis. Both narratives shed light on individuals shaping history—Oppenheimer in science, van Hall in wartime resistance—depicting the diverse paths of those confronting ethical challenges within their respective contexts. You can watch ‘The Resistance Banker’ by clicking here.
4. Einstein and the Bomb (2024)
This film is the closest you can get to ‘Oppenheimer’ on Netflix. Directed by Anthony Philipson, the docudrama delves into the mind of the genius Albert Einstein. It shows his moral dilemma resulting from his indirect involvement in the creation of the atomic bomb, which J. Robert Oppenheimer, too, underwent. The film uses archival footage, audio, and writings of/by Einstein to throw light on the cross that the genius had to bear, as well as his conflict with Nazi Germany. This conflict eventually took the shape of a letter he wrote to President Franklin D. Roosevelt, an act Einstein didn’t expect would kickstart an arms race and serve as the platform for initiating atomic bomb research by the U.S. To know more, you can watch ‘Einstein and the Bomb’ here.
3. Rustin (2023)
Colman Domingo offers a scintillating performance as civil rights activist Bayard Rustin, who organized the 1963 March on Washington, a movement to end racial discrimination. The march was followed by Martin Luther King Jr.’s historic speech. Directed by George C. Wolfe, the film shows the obstacles the titular personality had to tackle while fighting for racial equality. This included the backlash he faced due to his homosexuality. The film offers powerful performances by Aml Ameen (Martin Luther King Jr.), Glynn Turman, Chris Rock, and CCH Pounder. Higher Ground, the production company of Barack and Michelle Obama, produced it. Dingo received a Best Actor Oscar nomination. ‘Rustin’ won the Sherzum Award at the Hamptons International Film Festival and the Audience Choice Award for Narrative Special Presentation at the Heartland International Film Festival. It also received ten nominations at the Black Reel Awards, including many other accolades. What makes the film akin to ‘Oppenheimer’ is that the events in both films have gone down in world history as crucial milestones for humanity. You can watch the film here.
2. Darkest Hour (2017)
In ‘Darkest Hour,’ directed by Joe Wright, parallels emerge with ‘Oppenheimer’ through the exploration of pivotal figures navigating the moral complexities of their times. While ‘Oppenheimer’ taps into the makings and consequences of the atomic bomb, ‘Darkest Hour’ illuminates Winston Churchill’s leadership during World War II. Wright skillfully captures Churchill’s struggles and decisions amidst the backdrop of a nation at war. With Gary Oldman’s powerful portrayal at its helm, the film offers a compelling depiction of Churchill’s resolve and resilience. Both narratives showcase individuals confronting daunting challenges, whether in the scientific realm or the arena of political leadership, underscoring the diverse paths taken by those shaping history. Oldman won the Best Actor Oscar for his part. You can watch ‘Darkest Hour’ here.
1. Worth (2020)
Directed by Sara Colangelo, ‘Worth’ is the true story of attorney Kenneth Feinberg, who was made the Special Master of the September 11th Victim Compensation Fund in the aftermath of the 9/11 terrorist attack (September 11, 2001). Feinberg and his law partner, Camille Biros, are given the technically impossible task of allocating financial resources to the families affected by the attacks. In other words, they had to determine the ‘worth’ of the lives lost. The legal proceedings and the emotional trauma Feinberg had to handle while doing the job have been portrayed brilliantly onscreen, thanks to the acting prowess of Michael Keaton, who plays Kenneth Feinberg. Directed by Sara Colangelo, this film is based on Feinberg’s memoir ‘What Is Life Worth? The Unprecedented Effort to Compensate the Victims of 9/11.’ The parallel between this film and ‘Oppenheimer’ lies in the overwhelming feeling that is a mix of self-doubt, fear, and tension of the protagonists who are about to take a step that they know will not be liked/supported by many. You can watch ‘Worth’ here.
Read More: Documentaries You Must See if You Liked Oppenheimer
