Details from IMDB:
Oppenheimer
IMDb RATING
The story of American scientist, J. Robert Oppenheimer, and his role in the development of the atomic bomb.
- Director
- Writers
- Stars
Initial Thoughts:
Christopher Nolan is an amazing director and writer, I think there is no disputing that. I haven’t seen every movie he’s done but I’ve seen a lot of them and I enjoyed them all (granted some more than others). I think, though, that I will love him forever for the Batman trilogy, “The Dark Knight Rises” is my all-time favorite Batman movie (and the only one to win an Oscar). So of course we went to see “Oppenhemier” in theater, though I’ll admit not in IMAX.
Main Points:
I saw this movie on Monday, it’s Wednesday now so I’ve had some time to think, discuss it with other people, let it settle. There is a lot here, that’s what Nolan does at his best, he gives you a movie that sticks with you, makes you think. Nolan is a brilliant director, there’s no disputing that but he makes movies that are really deep/complicated/intense/depressing and this is also one of those movie.
Amazing performances here, Cillian Murphy deserves and Oscar, I thought Emily Blunt was also fantastic as was Casey Affleck, Matt Damon and RDJ. There is some great courtroom type drama and you learn a lot about history and of course about Oppenhemier. There are moments where I wondered what was Nolan trying to say, is it about how we are all just made up of energy and we are connected that way to everything in the universe? Or is he trying to be more karma-ish and say that we are all connected by our actions and how we treat each other? I couldn’t say and I suppose that’s the point, it’s up to the viewer to decide. So while it clips along at a good pace, I did find there were moments when it dragged and I think it could have done with some editing, 3 hours is a long time for a movie and I feel 2.5 would have tightened it up.
Final Thoughts:
I could say a lot about the movie but I think it’s best for you to watch it for yourself, I think if you pay attention you will be left with a lot of information, feelings and questions. I also think this movie is certainly not for kids, there is nudity, violence, sex, some coarse language and other disturbing images, ages , it’s his most sexual movie (that I recall) and there is plenty of nudity as well. I don’t think this is his best movie yet but it’s up there, I give it a solid 8 out of 10. I would recommend it but be prepared, the movie gets dark and is a very strong warning about government, nuclear weapons and ultimately human nature/behavior. I don’t agree with the ending but if it shocks people into action, then that’s a good thing. I didn’t see it in IMAX but I’m sure that would enhance viewing of several scenes if you’re inclined to pay the extra $.