What if your life’s work killed thousands of people? That hypothetical question wasn’t so hypothetical for the father of the atomic bomb J. Robert Oppenheimer, whose life story was adapted into a motion picture earlier this year by Christopher Nolan which premiered on July 21, 2023, starring Cillian Murphy.

Oppenheimer debuted to critical acclaim from both viewers and critics alike. It scored a 93% rating on the Tomatometer and a 91% rating from the audience. Many cite the stunning visuals and soul-shaking acting as the reasons for the success. In addition, it has also been cited as a fantastically intelligent movie about an important topic in today’s world and in the future.

The message of the movie was very much one of nuclear caution as Oppenheimer was portrayed as extremely egotistical and used his power to humiliate others, which would eventually come back to bite him. However, after witnessing the true power that his invention held Oppenheimer’s whole worldview shifted enough to where he was terrified of his own creation and wished to prevent further destruction. As a changed man he went on to be a pivotal member of the Atomic Energy Commission warning against the true power of these devices and would eventually be turned against by someone he thought was his friend and lost his government security clearance.

Overall, Oppenheimer was a beautiful biographical motion picture that sent a clear message and was received well by both critics and viewers alike. It is sure to make an appearance at the Oscars this coming March and may well win several awards. It was a fantastic work of art that will live in the minds of many for years to come.