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 scientific moments, here are eight films like ‘Oppenheimer’ on Netflix that you should consider checking out.
8. 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.
7. 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.
6. 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.
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. The Good Shepherd (2006)
In ‘The Good Shepherd,’ directed by Robert De Niro, thematic parallels emerge with ‘Oppenheimer’ through exploring individuals entangled in their respective spheres’ moral complexities. As ‘Oppenheimer’ examines the ethical dilemmas of nuclear science, ‘The Good Shepherd’ explores the secretive realm of intelligence and espionage during the Cold War era. De Niro adeptly navigates the intricate webs of loyalty, betrayal, and sacrifice within the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA). With a stellar cast led by Matt Damon, the film offers a gripping portrayal of the tolls of secrecy and surveillance on its protagonists. Both narratives illuminate the diverse paths taken by individuals confronting moral quandaries within their respective contexts, underscoring the multifaceted nature of human decision-making amidst the backdrop of historical tumult. You can watch the film here.
3. The Theory of Everything (2014)
Just like Robert Oppenheimer could “hear the music,” ‘The Theory of Everything’ shows how renowned theoretical physicist Stephen Hawking could also hear the music of the Big Bang that led to the creation of the universe. Directed by James Marsh, the film explores Hawking’s time as a student at the University of Cambridge, his relationship with Jane Wilde, his motor neuron disease, and his breakthrough in theoretical physics, i.e., the Black Hole Theory. Hawking’s obsession with black holes is portrayed beautifully, akin to how we see in ‘Oppenheimer,’ via visions. The ‘The Theory of Everything’ cast includes Eddie Redmayne, Felicity Jones, Charlie Cox, David Thewlis, Harry Lloyd, and Christian McKay. You can watch this 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. You can watch ‘Darkest Hour’ here.
1. The Imitation Game (2014)
For fans of ‘Oppenheimer,’ ‘The Imitation Game‘ is a compelling cinematic parallel that unravels the enigmatic life of Alan Turing. Directed by Morten Tyldum, the film captures Benedict Cumberbatch’s transformative portrayal of Turing, a brilliant mathematician who broke the German Enigma code during World War II. Beyond the realms of building an atomic bomb, it mirrors Oppenheimer’s complex journey by delving into Turing’s intellectual genius, personal struggles, and the societal challenges he faced. The narrative, interwoven with a poignant performance by Keira Knightley, elevates ‘The Imitation Game’ into an enthralling exploration of brilliance, sacrifice, and the intricate layers defining historical figures in the realm of code-breaking and cryptography. You can watch ‘The Imitation Game’ here.
Read More: Documentaries You Must See if You Liked Oppenheimer
