Rating of
3.5/4
Atomic Brawn
Chris Kavan - wrote on 08/07/23
Christopher Nolan continues to prove why he is a modern-day master of film with Oppenheimer - a tour de force in every sense of the word from its story and characters to its editing and sound - a stunning biopic that is enhanced by an exceptional cast, along with its director.
J. Robert Oppenheimer's story may center mostly around the creation, testing and use of the world's first atomic bomb, but that isn't the whole story here. From his early days teaching (and dalliance with Communism which would come back to haunt him), his affair with Jean Tatlock as well as his marriage to Kitty - the film isn't afraid to delve into the more difficult parts of his life. The film also utilizes black and white to separate the sham trial put on by Admiral Lewis Strauss - whose long-held grudge with Oppenheimer spills over to his own Senate confirmation hearing. Robert Downey Jr. excels as Strauss - but he's not alone in that respect.
The cast is stacked - Cillian Murphy gives a standout performance as the titular Oppenheimer, while Emily Blunt holds her own as Kitty. Matt Damon is along as military man Leslie Groves, who is tasked with putting together the team to build the atomic bomb before the Germans do as WWII heats up. Florence Pugh has a brief but memorable turn as Tatlock - yes, often nude, but that's really part of her character and never feels out of place. Jason Clarke oozes disdain as Roger Robb - the man hand-picked by Strauss to run the committee to smear Oppenheimer and revoke his top secret clearance. And the list goes on and on: Josh Hartnett, Kenneth Branagh, David Krumholtz, Dane DeHaan, Jack Quaid, Rami Malek, Casey Affleck, Alex Wolff, Tom Conti, James D'Arcy, Alden Ehrenreich, Matthew Modine, David Dastmalchian, James Urbaniak, James Remar, Olivia Thirlby, Gary Oldman, Benny Safdie, Tom Jenkins, Jefferson Hall, Dylan Arnold - it doesn't matter if it's a smaller part or not - each one makes an impact and it's probably the most well-utilized cast I have seen in a long time. And despite the huge amount of actors involved, no part feels wasted and each one seems well-suited to character.
Likewise, the sound and music also make for a perfect fit. The test scene is one of the most memorable scenes in the film - and is one that will leave a lasting impression. And I think the scene where Oppenheimer gives his post-test speech is just as powerful, as he comes to grips with what he has truly unleashed upon the world. The film is bombastic when it needs to be but just as important are the quiet moments - it's a film that should make one pause and reflect and therein lies its true power. If this film doesn't shake you - have not other words for you.
Oppenheimer is a rare film that will probably win a lot of awards (rightfully) but doesn't FEEL like it's trying to win those awards. So many awards-season films just feel like they are there for the critics while leaving audiences out in the cold - Oppenheimer, while running a bit long, still feels like it is made for the masses. My only regret is that I don't have a fancy IMAX theater to truly experience the film the way Nolan wanted - but I think this is an important film and one that should be seen by as many people as possible.
