Christopher Nolan, master of cinematic gems such as "The Dark Knight" and "Inception", bravely ventures into the world of biopics with his latest work, "Oppenheimer". The film follows theoretical physicist J. Robert Oppenheimer, known as the father of the atomic bomb.
The film is visually spectacular, as Nolan is wont to do, with his regular collaborator Hoyte van Hoytema delivering stunning cinematography. The narrative is divided into three intertwining stories in typical Nolan fashion, adding a layer of complexity to the storytelling. However, this non-linear approach may not add much to the narrative richness and could be seen as a purely stylistic choice.
The film also boasts an impressive cast, including Matt Damon, Emily Blunt and Robert Downey Jr., who each add depth to their characters. Downey Jr., in particular, shines as Lewis Strauss, chairman of the Atomic Energy Commission, with a performance that could earn him an Oscar nomination.
However, "Oppenheimer" is not without its faults. The film's ambitious scope, while admirable, leads to a narrative that feels overburdened with characters and plots. This leads to a lack of focus on what should be at the fore: the ethical implications of the atomic bomb.
Furthermore, Nolan's emphasis on intellectual puzzles over emotional depth leaves the audience feeling detached. Despite the film's length, we never really get under Oppenheimer's skin, leaving us with a protagonist who seems more like a cipher than a flesh-and-blood man.
In conclusion, “Oppenheimer” is a film that showcases Nolan's technical mastery and his ability to master complex narratives. However, its lack of emotional resonance and somewhat superficial treatment of the central character prevent it from reaching the heights of Nolan's previous works. This is a film that will leave you in awe of its craft, but may leave you cold when it comes to its characters.
Early reviews of the movie are mixed, but don't worry, even if the movie doesn't get high ratings, I guarantee you that watching this movie will be more fun than trying to explain Schrödinger's cat to your dog. So, if you are ready for a three-hour journey through time, space and atomic bombs, I highly recommend that you watch “Oppenheimer”. Don't forget to bring popcorn!
