You gave them the power to destroy themselves. Photo Courtesy of Universal Pictures
In the modern world, the threat of things like nuclear fallout is of little concern to most students at San Luis Obispo High School, as the threat of a nuclear attack has decreased dramatically since the days of the Cold War. Despite this, many movies like to focus on this theoretical situation.
Production company Universal Picture’s latest film, headed by director Christopher Nolan, one of the most dedicated realist directors in Hollywood is set to tell the story of the American Nuclear Program and the “Father of the Atom Bomb”, Dr. Oppenheimer.
“I believe it is (a good topic for present times), considering the growing conflict in Eastern Europe and the nuclear capabilities of the many nations around the world. People should be afraid and aware of what our weapons can do, maybe that can prevent further violence,” said 2023 SLOHS graduate Mark Rourke.
“Oppenheimer” is set during the second world when the United States Government is warned by great minds like Einstein of a potential Nazi Nuclear Program which could have a devastating effect on not just the war but the world at large.
“I expect a lot of tension and intensity throughout the film, and honestly think from what I’ve seen it will be represented well, ” said 2023 SLOHS graduate Gavin Wren.
Nolan is known to use as little CGI as possible using all the practical effects possible, this has caused speculation about whether or not Nolan plans to film the explosion of an atomic weapon.
“It reminds us of the real world impact of the actual events that took place as it’s easy to insert yourself in that time period if most of everything you see are practical effects, ” said 2023 SLOHS graduate Liam Streeter.
Whether or not Nolan goes all in on the realism of the effects, the film is guaranteed to have a gritty earth feel that will immerse the audience in the experience of the scientists of the Manhattan Project, and serve as a reminder of America’s role in the creation of Nuclear Weapons and reminding Americans of their history and potentially destructive future.
