Fiery from its first five days of release in the Philippines, “Oppenheimer” grossed P19.018M alone in just 9 IMAX screens, now making it the highest-grossing IMAX release for 2023. From regular 2D screens it hauled another P38.74M cinemas nationwide. This makes it now the 2nd Biggest Saturday Opening for a Universal Pictures release (next to Fast X and ahead of The Super Mario Bros. Movie). It has also solidified its place here as the 3rd Biggest Weekend Opening for a Christopher Nolan film, after The Dark Knight Rises and The Dark Knight, but ahead of Batman Begins. Despite its R-16 rating and a limited market share, the first weekend box-office reflects a 650% increase in initial forecast that’s above most optimistic targets and is poised to reach P100M and beyond in the next days or weeks.
Best seen in IMAX, Christopher Nolan has strongly advocated for the big screen experience for all of his films. The filmmaker who pushed the limits of cinematic storytelling to tell epic stories about unlikely heroes and audacious schemes that examine the necessity, morality, and hubris of ambitious endeavor has successfully engaged the worldwide audience once again in his latest immersive cinematic work in Oppenheimer.
Oppenheimer is an IMAX®-shot epic thriller that thrusts audiences into the pulse-pounding paradox of the enigmatic man who must risk destroying the world in order to save it. The film gathers together an extraordinary and massive cast that includes Cillian Murphy, Emily Blunt, Robert Downey Jr., Matt Damon, Florence Pugh, Matthew Modine, Tom Conti, Rami Malek, Kenneth Branagh, Josh Hartnett, Casey Affleck, Benny Safdie and Josh Peck.
The film was shot exclusively with large format cameras—Panavision® 65mm and IMAX® 65mm. “What large-format photography gives you is clarity, first and foremost,” says Nolan. “It’s a format that allows the audience to become fully immersed in the story and in the reality that you’re taking them to. In the case of Oppenheimer, it’s a story of great scope and great scale and great span.”
“What I wanted to do was take the audience into the mind and the experience of a person who sat at the absolute center of the largest shift in history,” concludes Nolan. “Like it or not, J. Robert Oppenheimer is the most important person who ever lived. He made the world we live in, for better or for worse. And his story must be seen to be believed.”
From Universal Pictures International, Oppenheimer is now showing nationwide in 227 cinemas.
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It’s been days since “Oppenheimer” hit the big screens, and it’s already creating a nuclear reaction amongst film enthusiasts worldwide. If you haven’t watched it yet, or you’re still hyped from the viewing, we’ve compiled a list of fun and fascinating facts about the film that explores the life of the man behind the world’s deadliest weapon.
Cillian Murphy is J. Robert Oppenheimer in OPPENHEIMER, written, produced, and directed by Christopher Nolan.
1. A Visionary’s Tale Brought to Life
“Oppenheimer” is yet another testament to Christopher Nolan’s penchant for audacious storytelling, characterized by its exploration of unlikely heroes and grand ideas. Nolan, an Oscar-nominated writer-director known for pushing the boundaries of cinematic narratives, takes on his most ambitious project yet with “Oppenheimer”. Driven by a compelling narrative inspired by the Pulitzer Prize-winning book “American Prometheus” by Kai Bird and Martin J. Sherwin, Nolan aims to transport the audience into the heart of a momentous historical shift. As Nolan puts it, “Like it or not, J. Robert Oppenheimer is the most important person who ever lived. He made the world we live in, for better or for worse. And his story must be seen to be believed.” Known as the “Father of the Atomic Bomb,” Oppenheimer’s work has left an indelible imprint on human civilization. Nolan, acclaimed for his gripping narratives and the depth of his character studies, turns his lens towards this scientific titan. Viewers will not only witness the unfolding of a historic era but also experience the inner workings of a mind that has shaped our present and future.
2. Breaking Ground in Cinematic Technique
“Oppenheimer” raises the bar in film production by employing an innovative mix of IMAX® 65mm and 65mm large-format film photography. For the first time in cinematic history, the movie includes segments shot using IMAX® black and white analogue photography. This trailblazing approach provides a unique visual experience, setting a new standard in film aesthetics. As a product of a highly decorated production team that includes Oscar® nominees Emma Thomas and Charles Roven, as well as renowned director Christopher Nolan, “Oppenheimer” is destined to add a significant chapter to the epic narrative of cinema.
3. The Birth of “Oppenheimer” – Embracing the Terrible Possibility
While crafting “Oppenheimer”, director Christopher Nolan drew deeply from the well of fear that the scientists of the Manhattan Project faced. They were dealing with what J. Robert Oppenheimer himself called “the terrible possibility” – the slight chance that igniting the first atomic bomb could incinerate the entire planet’s atmosphere. Despite this looming dread, they “pushed the button” and forever altered human history. Nolan’s desire was to transport the audience into the room where that fateful decision was made, to let them feel the palpable tension and the consequentiality of that moment. This raw, riveting exploration of the ethical dilemmas and paradoxes faced by Oppenheimer, set against the backdrop of one of humanity’s most destructive inventions, provides the film with a compelling narrative core. The aim was to balance a subjective portrayal of Oppenheimer’s journey with an objective look at the seismic impact of his actions. Interestingly, scenes told from Oppenheimer’s perspective are filmed in color, whilst segments focusing on Lewis Strauss, another key player in shaping America’s nuclear policy, are presented in black and white.
4. A Stellar Ensemble Cast
Christopher Nolan’s “Oppenheimer” commands attention not only for its compelling story but also for its outstanding ensemble cast. Each character, representing a key figure of the 20th century, is uniquely depicted, avoiding the common practice of composite characters to ensure the individual contributions of each historical figure are rightfully recognized.
Rami Malek is David Hill in OPPENHEIMER, written, produced, and directed by Christopher Nolan.
The film features Cillian Murphy in the titular role of J. Robert Oppenheimer, bringing to life the complexity and charisma of the ‘Father of the Atomic Bomb’. Oscar nominee Emily Blunt plays his wife, Kitty Oppenheimer, while Robert Downey Jr. portrays Lewis Strauss, another key player in shaping America’s nuclear policy after World War II. Additionally, Matt Damon and Florence Pugh have been cast in key roles, further elevating the caliber of the film.
Each character, whether appearing in brief cameos or substantial scenes, has been designed to leave a lasting impact on the audience, with their performances offering a memorable and vivid portrayal that lingers long after the credits roll. This ensemble of world-class actors, coupled with Nolan’s meticulous attention to detail, makes “Oppenheimer” a standout in historical drama.
5. Rigorous Preparation for Cillian Murphy
Cillian Murphy underwent extensive preparation to authentically depict the brilliant yet enigmatic scientist. Drawing from a wealth of resources such as the book “American Prometheus”, various other literature, and countless hours of footage showing Oppenheimer’s lectures and interviews, Murphy aimed for a nuanced portrayal that balances historical accuracy with creative interpretation.
Cillian Murphy is J. Robert Oppenheimer in OPPENHEIMER, written, produced, and directed by Christopher Nolan.
The actor worked closely with Nolan and renowned costume designer Ellen Mirojnick to fine-tune Oppenheimer’s distinctive look, focusing on elements such as his intense gaze, posture, pipe, and hat. However, Murphy stresses that his portrayal isn’t a mere impression of Oppenheimer but rather a distilled representation of the character as presented in the script and historical materials.
In a bid to gain deeper insight into the character, Murphy consulted with esteemed physicist Kip Thorne to understand the concepts of fission and the nuances of the scientific profession. Despite this, Murphy didn’t attempt to fully comprehend the profound scientific and philosophical concepts that came naturally to Oppenheimer, opting instead to grasp a conceptual understanding and focus on extracting the humanity in his character.
Murphy’s portrayal of Oppenheimer is designed to stimulate thought and provoke reflection on current world events, rather than simply provide a history lesson, reinforcing the importance of thoughtful filmmaking in the cinematic landscape.
6. Meticulous Production Design and Filming Locations
Production designer Ruth De Jong, known for her work on films like “Nope”, “Us”, and “Manchester by the Sea”, was tasked with creating a world that was historically accurate but also in line with Nolan’s preference for a timeless aesthetic. The team went through extensive research but allowed themselves to diverge from exact historical form to craft their vision.
A major aspect of the production design involved recreating the look and feel of Los Alamos, the base for the Manhattan Project. While considering to shoot at the actual site, the team eventually decided against it due to the modernization of the real location. Instead, they designed an elaborate model of Los Alamos which was reduced in scale due to budgetary considerations. Exteriors were filmed at Ghost Ranch in Northern New Mexico, while most of the interiors were shot at the real Los Alamos. This approach added authenticity to the film, even allowing actors Cillian Murphy and Emily Blunt to shoot scenes in the very home where the Oppenheimers lived.
The Trinity test site, a significant location in the film, was originally planned to be shot at the White Sands Proving Ground, the actual site of the Trinity test. However, due to the site being an active military base, they built their version of the test site in Belen, New Mexico.
The film shot scenes at The Institute for Advanced Study, where Oppenheimer and Einstein worked post World War II. This included filming at Einstein’s preserved office, which was redressed to represent Oppenheimer’s, and the original house where Oppenheimer and his wife lived during their time at the Institute. This careful consideration of locations and design decisions attest to the team’s commitment to authenticity while telling the story of Oppenheimer.
7. Unique Cinematography Approach
“Oppenheimer” brought a novel challenge for cinematographer Hoyte van Hoytema and director Christopher Nolan in terms of cinematography. Unlike their previous collaborations that leaned heavily on action, “Oppenheimer” was more akin to a psychological thriller, focusing on the characters’ faces.
The film was shot exclusively with large-format cameras – Panavision® 65mm and IMAX® 65mm – a decision that enhanced the audience’s immersion in the story’s reality. Nolan sought a filming style that was simple yet powerful, providing unadorned, natural photography and revealing the real-world complexity and detail.
Interestingly, the black-and-white sequences required the creation of a new type of film stock. Kodak was approached to produce a 65-millimeter black-and-white film which had never been made before. The resulting prototypal film stock delivered a unique aesthetic appeal that impressed the filmmakers.
The challenge of using large-format film and two different kinds of stock, both color and black-and-white, extended into post-production, with the film needing to be edited, color-corrected, and printed for IMAX®, digital, and standard presentation. This inventive approach to cinematography stands as a distinctive feature of the film.
8. Detailed and Symbolic Costume Design
Acclaimed costume designer Ellen Mirojnick was entrusted with the mission of clothing the characters in Christopher Nolan’s “Oppenheimer.” She meticulously designed costumes that not only adhered to the historical time frame but also highlighted the characters’ personalities and state of mind.
One significant example is the costumes designed for Cillian Murphy’s character, Robert Oppenheimer. His clothing was meant to mirror a man with fine tastes, with his appeal underscored by blue hues that emphasized his piercing blue eyes. The constancy of his style throughout his life, despite changing body shape, was carefully portrayed.
A particular aspect of Oppenheimer’s attire was his distinctive hat. Mirojnick worked extensively to find a hatmaker who could accurately recreate its unique shape, eventually collaborating with Baron Hats, a legendary Hollywood hat maker.
In contrast, Robert Downey Jr.’s character, Lewis Strauss, was always immaculately and fashionably dressed, reflecting his prosperity and success. For instance, for Strauss’ Senate confirmation hearing, his attire was recreated exactly as per a historical photograph, even though the scene is filmed in black and white in the movie.
The character of Kitty Oppenheimer, played by Emily Blunt, also had a significant evolution in her wardrobe that reflected her changing lifestyle and emotional state, moving from being a socialite to a housewife in the desert.
Dressing the multitude of extras for the Los Alamos scenes proved a significant challenge due to the variety of roles and the need to accurately represent different seasons in the harsh New Mexico winter.
9. Expressive and Evolving Film Score
Oscar®-winning composer Ludwig Göransson teamed up again with Christopher Nolan following their collaboration on “Tenet”. Nolan suggested the violin as the basis for the score, associating its precarious tuning and potential for emotional shifts with the personality and intellect of the protagonist, Robert Oppenheimer.
Göransson harnessed the expressive potential of the violin, using techniques like microtonal glissandos to expand the sonic palette and create a soundscape that was both beautiful and unsettling. He began with a solo violin performance that captured Oppenheimer’s essence and gradually added more instruments, including a quartet, octet, and ultimately a large ensemble of strings and brass, as the story evolved. This progressive orchestration mirrored the increasing complexity of Oppenheimer’s journey.
Throughout the composition process, Göransson focused on preserving the organic essence of the violin and strings, with the entire score driven by an organic orchestra. Specific character and thematic motifs, like Kitty Oppenheimer’s haunting piano melody, followed this ethos. However, he also incorporated modern elements, like synthesizers, to symbolize the looming catastrophe and eerie consequences of Oppenheimer’s creation, providing an unearthly atmosphere for the Los Alamos motif.
Recording the score required an intense 5-day period during the post-production phase of the film, with Göransson and his fellow musicians pushing their technical abilities to the limit. Notably, an unbroken recording for a montage sequence required numerous iterations and devoted efforts to perfect.
10. Innovative Use of Practical Effects for Nuclear Explosion
Contrary to the Internet rumor that an actual atomic bomb was detonated for the filming of “Oppenheimer,” director Christopher Nolan and his team utilized innovative practical effects to portray the iconic Trinity nuclear test. Nolan collaborated with Oscar-winning special effects supervisors Scott Fisher and Andrew Jackson, setting a firm rule against the use of computer-generated imagery (CGI).
For the film, Fisher and Jackson explored unconventional techniques to create a visceral, tactile, and threatening representation of the Trinity test’s nuclear explosion. They filmed various experiments like smashing ping pong balls together and throwing paint at a wall, among others, using small digital cameras up close at different frame rates.
Despite being filmed on a small scale initially, these experiments were later translated into the large-scale IMAX format, with the aid of a long, fish-eyed probe lens attached to IMAX and Panavision cameras. The exact process of how the atomic explosion images were created remains top-secret, but the creation of these effects was akin to their own Manhattan Project.
Nolan and his team also employed similar techniques to represent the inner world of Oppenheimer, focusing on unique and personal images that convey the profound shift from Newtonian physics to quantum mechanics. Despite the prevalent use of CGI in similar contexts, Nolan’s emphasis on practical effects generated an idiosyncratic library of both frightening and beautiful images that reflect the thought processes of Oppenheimer.
Now that we’ve revealed ten explosive facts about “Oppenheimer” that enhance your understanding and appreciation of the film, all that’s left for you is to experience the remarkable journey of J. Robert Oppenheimer on the big screen. Don’t miss the chance to witness this monumental cinematic masterpiece!
As expected from any Christopher Nolan movie, ‘Oppenheimer’ is visually stunning and presents the story of the invention of the atomic bomb in an epic manner that captures the gravity of that discovery and manages to ponder on the consequences of such. Since his exploration on the concept of cinematic time in his film ‘Interstellar,’ (and even as far back as ‘Memento’) Nolan has been exploiting the way movies can bend and distort time to present the story of theoretical physicist J. Robert Oppenheimer through the narrative framework of two important events of his life – forming the team of scientists and building the site that gave birth to the invention of the atom bomb and the subsequent attack upon him by the American government for his dealings with socialists and the far left – which unfolds in a non-linear manner to dazzling effect.
The narrative of ‘Oppenheimer’ unfolds from different time frames. They include his early life as a student of theoretical physics and moving to Germany to learn about the new theories of physics to his rise in the ranks of the American academe to his appointment as the head of the Manhattan Project where he lead the team that invented the atomic bomb all the way to the later parts of his life when he was questioned for his dealings with the far left. The past is presented in full color while the later periods are told in black and white and through the perspective of Lewis Strauss, who is nominated for a cabinet post in the White House and is being questioned for his engagement with Oppenheimer.
What the non-linear storytelling does is that it connects all facets of Oppenheimer’s life with each other in a visual tapestry that suggests causality: his engagement with socialism, communism, and left-wing ideology and how this entangled him into the world of politics as his brilliance in his field brings him to the attention of the powers that be. The nuclear race had begun, and World War II was at full-swing and he had the know-how to possibly end it with a weapon that was to end all wars. But as the film continues to jump back and forth in time, what the film does is shows humanity’s greed and hunger for power, in all shapes and sizes, whether it be individual or in the form of an institution or government.
‘Oppenheimer’ is focused on the bigger themes of morality – putting the narrative spotlight on the scientist’s thought and feelings about creating a bomb so powerful that it could risk destroying the world and glosses over the other aspects of his human frailty such as his infidelity (which has more implications on his politics) or his arrogance and self-importance (though the film underlines that he was deserving of this stance).
The back and forth of its narrative style brings a sort of energy into the piece, along with the relentless musical score of Ludwig Goransson, that makes the film feel epic, important, and urgent. It is constantly building momentum towards both the eventual test of the atomic bomb in New Mexico and the buildup of the closed-door inquiry of Oppenheimer’s leftist dealings as well as Strauss’ own inquiry for his cabinet post. All three events are interlinked that sets to amplify what the film seems to be pointing at: that man cannot be trusted with any power whatsoever. Even with Oppenheimer’s own reluctance and eventual submission to the call for harnessing the power of the atom, the government that requested for it took it from him the moment it was done and used it for their own ends.
As much as the film underscores that Oppenheimer wanted this to be the end of all wars, what the film also manages to highlight is how this was also the beginning of a sort of end for human civilization. It is a triumph in Nolan’s direction that he was able to use Oppenheimer’s story as a fulcrum of when things may have started to go bad for the world.
L to R: Robert Downey Jr is Lewis Strauss and Matthew Modine is Vannevar Bush in OPPENHEIMER, written, produced, and directed by Christopher Nolan.Rami Malek is David Hill in OPPENHEIMER, written, produced, and directed by Christopher Nolan.
Nolan is always an interesting director who is able to push boundaries and whose visual style is just perfect for large scale storytelling. He can make a room full of scientists talking about theoretical physics the most interesting thing to watch on the big screen because he understands how to contextualise it through cinema – the scenes preceding it and the context as to why they are having this discussion. Nolan is a storyteller that can present such things in a captivating way.
And it helps that he’s got fantastic actors to help bring out the best of his work. Cillian Murphy is captivating as Oppenheimer, and he manages to do so in the large span of time that Nolan has chosen to tell his story. Murphy has to play him from as young as an eager student in Germany to him at his prime while working on the Manhattan Project and then later on in life as an accomplished man and watching the world pass him by. Emily Blunt also gives a powerful performance with what little she’s given to do (though she does have one moment where she steals the show from everybody). But if anyone manages to really steal everyone’s thunder, it is Robert Downey Jr as Lewis Strauss.
As Strauss, Downey is a fireball igniting every scene he is in. There is a huge range of emotions that is required of him, and he delivers each on a silver platter. It’s a more flashy role than Murphy’s so while Cillian Murphy serves to anchor the film to its main character, it’s the rest of the cast like Blunt, Matt Damon, and Downey Jr who pushes the sails and really helps this movie take flight.
While all of Nolan’s creative team from Cinematographer Hoyt van Hoytema to editor Jennifer Lame and production designer Ruth De Jong and Goransson’s impeccable score are working at peak levels, ‘Oppenheimer’ proves to be exactly what I was expecting from a Christopher Nolan movie about the famous physicist. Except for two nude scenes that felt out of place, and a little too much figurative use of Oppenheimer’s hallucinations on the effects of the nuclear destruction, the film does exactly what it sets out to do in Nolan’s style. It isn’t as surprising as say ‘Inception’ nor does it have that effect of the sublime that ‘Dunkirk’ manages to evoke.
While I appreciate the way ‘Oppenheimer’ highlights the vile practices of any government – in this case, America’s – and man’s own unfitting nature to regulate and safeguard such vital knowledge like how to harness the power of the atom and nuclear energy and what seems like such a nuance treatment of the man’s dealings with socialism and communism; the film is enjoyable for what it is. I don’t know why I was expecting more.
My Rating:
OPPENHEIMER is now showing in cinemas nationwide. Buy your tickets here.
Get ready for a movie marathon with this week’s exciting releases! From the historical drama ‘Oppenheimer‘ to the bubbly ‘Barbie,’ the thrilling ‘Captive,’ the adventurous ‘Joy Ride,’ and the chilling urban legend ‘Mary Cherry Chua.’ From history to comedy, action to horror, there’s a film for every taste!
The highly anticipated live-action adaptation of “Barbie,” produced by and starring Margot Robbie, takes us into the whimsical world of Barbie, turning childhood memories into a cinematic spectacle. Whether you’re a fan of the iconic doll or simply a lover of fun-filled adventures, this movie is a perfect pick for a feel-good movie time. Get ready to enter Barbie’s dazzling world!
Journey back in time with ‘Oppenheimer,’ the riveting new drama that explores the life and career of J. Robert Oppenheimer, the “father of the atomic bomb”. This film delves deep into the complexities of the man behind the world-changing Manhattan Project. A must-watch for history buffs and those who appreciate a well-crafted biographical tale.
In ‘Captive,’ a seemingly fun-filled weekend turns into a chilling encounter when a group of young partygoers discover a captive vampire in the basement of a luxurious house they’ve broken into. As the house reveals its terrifying secrets, the party turns into a fight for survival. This supernatural thriller is sure to keep you on the edge of your seat!
From the creative minds behind ‘Neighbors’ and ‘Crazy Rich Asians’, comes an adventurous comedy-drama that redefines the classic road trip genre: ‘Joy Ride’. This fun-filled cinematic treat stars Ashley Park, Sherry Cola, Oscar® nominee Stephanie Hsu, and Sabrina Wu, each bringing their unique talents and humor to this unapologetically explicit tale of self-discovery and friendship. Joy Ride’ is not just about the laughter, though there’s plenty of it. It’s about finding yourself, embracing who you are, and loving yourself – flaws and all. It’s about how, no matter where we come from or where we’re going, our identity is integral to our journey.
“Mary Cherry Chua” is a chilling dive into a well-known Filipino urban legend that continues to stir intrigue and curiosity. Delve into the eerie tale of Mary, a bright student whose life was brutally cut short in the early 2000s. According to lore, Mary fell victim to a heinous act committed by the school janitor and her restless spirit still haunts the school grounds to this day. This film invites brave souls to utter her name and unravel the truth behind her harrowing story. With “Mary Cherry Chua”, audiences are dared to confront the whispers of the past and meet the specter that has gripped the nation for decades.
FAN FAVORITES STILL SHOWING
Still playing in theaters are ‘Mission: Impossible – Dead Reckoning Part One,’ ‘Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny,’ ‘Insidious: The Red Door,’ ‘The Childe,’ ‘Elemental,’ ‘Transformers: Rise of the Beasts,’ ‘Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse,’ and ‘The Little Mermaid.’ These films continue to draw in audiences, so if you haven’t caught them yet, better make your way to the cinemas soon! Here’s a list of fan favorites that are still playing in cinemas:
So, there you have it – a film for every mood and taste! From historical dramas and animated extravaganzas to supernatural thrillers, feel-good journeys, and local flair, this week’s new releases offer something for everyone. Grab your popcorn and get ready for a cinematic treat. Happy movie watching, everyone!
Take a peek of what’s about to explode in cinemas with the cast and crew of Christopher Nolan’s Oppenheimer in this 6-minute featurette ‘Pushing the Button.’ The movie called for a massive cast to play the dozens of characters representing some of the most important movers and shakers of the 20th century.
“This is I think a definitive moment in the history of modern filmmaking. Do yourself a favor and go see this on as big a screen as you can,” says Robert Downey Jr. in this featurette.
Based on the Pulitzer Prize-winning book American Prometheus: The Triumph and Tragedy of J. Robert Oppenheimer by Kai Bird and the late Martin J. Sherwin. Oppenheimer stars Cillian Murphy as J. Robert Oppenheimer, with Emily Blunt as his wife, biologist and botanist Katherine “Kitty” Oppenheimer. The impressive cast also includes Matt Damon as General Leslie Groves Jr., director of the Manhattan Project, and Robert Downey, Jr. plays Lewis Strauss, a founding commissioner of the U.S. Atomic Energy Commission. Florence Pugh plays psychiatrist Jean Tatlock, Benny Safdie plays theoretical physicist Edward Teller, Michael Angarano plays Robert Serber and Josh Hartnett plays pioneering American nuclear scientist Ernest Lawrence. The film also stars Rami Malek and reunites Christopher Nolan with actor, writer and filmmaker Kenneth Branagh. Dane DeHaan, Dylan Arnold, David Krumholtz, Alden Ehrenreich, and Matthew Modine also appears in the film.
“It’s profound but it’s told in a very human way. Chris makes films for theaters, for a movie going audiences, so you want to see that as it’s designed to be seen,” Cillian Murphy says.
Push that button now and book your seats at your favorite cinemas. From Universal Pictures, Oppenheimer opens July 19 nationwide in local cinemas.
From the cinematic genius behind the Dark Knight Trilogy and Inception comes an ambitious new project that is set to captivate audiences worldwide. Universal Pictures recently shared a collection of striking images from Christopher Nolan’s upcoming film, “Oppenheimer”, which is due to hit cinemas across the Philippines on July 19th. The captivating snapshots offer an intriguing glimpse into a narrative and characters that are poised to change the world as we know it.
“Oppenheimer” brings together a lineup of acting powerhouses, promising a film that is as star-studded as it is promising. The film boasts an ensemble cast that reads like a Hollywood roll call – Cillian Murphy, Matt Damon, Emily Blunt, Florence Pugh, Robert Downey Jr., and Josh Hartnett. The newly released photos from Universal Pictures promise a visual spectacle that’s bound to leave viewers on the edge of their seats.
Oscar®-nominated writer-director Christopher Nolan brings to screen “Oppenheimer”, his most ambitious and urgent movie yet, a sweeping, epic thriller that delves deep into the psyche of a singular American mind: the brilliant scientist behind the world-shattering invention of the atomic bomb that represented the total sum of human ingenuity, an invention that would remake civilization, even as its very existence threatened the future of mankind.
Cillian Murphy stars as J Robert Oppenheimer
Cillian Murphy as J. Robert Oppenheimer – The Man Behind the Bomb
Audiences have witnessed the depth of Murphy’s talent in roles across “28 Days Later”, “A Quiet Place II”, “Peaky Blinders”, and previous Nolan ventures including “The Dark Knight Trilogy”, “Inception”, and “Dunkirk”. In “Oppenheimer”, he takes on the formidable task of portraying the physicist known as the Father of the Atomic Bomb. In Murphy’s own words, the challenge lies in embodying Oppenheimer’s immense intellect and moral quandaries, a pursuit of complexity befitting the multi-faceted man himself.
Emily Blunt as Kitty Oppenheimer
Emily Blunt as Kitty Oppenheimer – The Nonconformist
Known for her impressive turns in breakout role and scene-stealing performances in “Devil Wears Prada” and A Quiet Place (I and II), Emily Blunt embodies the role of Kitty Oppenheimer, a biologist, botanist, and J. Robert’s wife. Blunt found herself drawn to Kitty’s defiance against societal norms and her unwillingness to conform to traditional gender expectations, finding it refreshingly modern and relatable. “Kitty is a character who doesn’t do small talk; she only does big talk,” Blunt says. “She’s complicated, volatile, bewitching all at once. What I really was drawn to with her is that idea of a woman who refused to conform to the sort of feminine ideal of the time, why you need to get married and have children and support your man and that’s your job and that’s all you’re allowed. She just had this defiance against the system that felt so modern.”
Matt Damon as Leslie Groves Jr.
Matt Damon as Leslie Groves Jr. – Witness to History
To play the brigadier general, the filmmakers recruited Matt Damon, who earlier this year added to a gilded resume of Oscar® nominated performances (and an Academy Award® for co-writing Good Will Hunting) with an acclaimed performance in Air. Groves, who played a crucial role in the creation of the atomic bomb, represents an origin story for a world shaped by the aftermath of the Manhattan Project, a narrative thread Damon found deeply compelling. “I’m a child of the Cold War,” Damon says. “I grew up with the consequences of this piece of history. So, without a doubt, this is one of the most important stories of our time.”
Robert Downey, Jr. as Lewis Strauss
Robert Downey, Jr. as Lewis Strauss – Nuclear Policy Architect
Lewis Strauss was a founding commissioner of the Atomic Energy Commission in 1947, playing a key role in shaping America’s post-war nuclear policy. The Oppenheimer opportunity arrived in Downey Jr.’s life at a moment when he was trying to be choosy following his blockbuster run playing the foremost avenger of the Marvel Cinematic Universe. “I had been cooling my heels for about a year before the pandemic, just reacquainting myself with my family and other interests because I had been working super consistently,” says Downey Jr. “But this was Christopher Nolan, doing something that was important to him. The cast was this large gathering of folks who have their choice of projects. And just as soon as we were under way, world events lined up in a way that turned this movie into an important metaphor that could speak to any number of things. So, it was kind of a no- brainer.”
Florence Pugh as Jean Tatlock
Florence Pugh as Jean Tatlock – The Free Spirit
An intellectual, deep-feeling introvert, sensual, free-spirited, yet prone to bouts of melancholy, Jean Tatlock was a Stanford-educated psychiatrist who had an intense yet tortured romance with J. Robert Oppenheimer. To play Tatlock, the filmmakers cast Florence Pugh, whose performances in Black Widow, Midsommar and Little Women, which earned her an Oscar® nomination, have made her one of Hollywood’s brightest young stars. She took the part for the chance to work with a director she admired. “It’s a Christopher Nolan movie, number one,” says Pugh, “and number two, he has one of the most incredible leads. Cillian Murphy is an actor that I have been watching for quite some time and have been desperate to work with for ages. You’d have to be mad to say no. It felt like I was playing sports with some of the best athletes, so it was truly one of the best experiences that I’ve had.”
Josh Hartnett as Ernest Lawrence
Josh Hartnett as Ernest Lawrence – The Unsung Hero
To play the physicist Lawrence, Nolan chose Josh Hartnett, no stranger to big films that tackle the morality of war and military heroics, having played an Army pilot in Michael Bay’s Pearl Harbor and an Army ranger in Ridley Scott’s Black Hawk Down. Returning to movies after taking time off to focus on raising kids, Hartnett re-engages the genre that made him a star through a different kind of character. “I knew a bit about Oppenheimer, but not Lawrence and how he was instrumental in creating nuclear weapons and what is now our 21st century dilemma,” Hartnett says. “He’s the most important and impressive historical figure from the 20th Century that I knew nothing about. He developed the cyclotron, developed the concept of big science, he basically gave birth to what is now the super-collider. Everything has changed because of this guy and his tinkering.”
Also starring Oscar® winner Casey Affleck as Boris Pash, chief of Army counter-intelligence at the Presidio in San Francisco, Oscar® winner Rami Malek plays David Hill, an associate experimental physicist, Matthew Modine as Vannevar Bush, head of the U.S. Office of Scientific Research and Development, Oscar® nominee Tom Conti as Albert Einstein and Oscar® winning filmmaker and actor Kenneth Branagh plays Nobel Prize winning physicist Niels Bohr.
Nolan employs a combination of IMAX® 65mm and 65mm large-format film photography for the movie, incorporating IMAX® black and white analogue photography for the first time ever, making “Oppenheimer” a cinematic event to look forward to.
If you’re a fan of thrilling blockbusters that take you on a mind-bending journey, get ready for Christopher Nolan’s latest cinematic masterpiece, “Oppenheimer.” Renowned for his global hits like “Tenet,” “Dunkirk,” and “Inception,” Nolan is set to transport audiences back in time with an atomic twist that will leave you on the edge of your seat.
With a track record of over $5 billion in box office earnings, 11 Oscars, and 36 nominations, including two Best Picture nods, Nolan’s films have consistently captivated audiences worldwide. Now, he brings us “Oppenheimer,” an epic IMAX®-shot thriller that delves into the mysterious world of J. Robert Oppenheimer, the man responsible for the creation of the atomic bomb.
In this heart-pounding paradox, Oppenheimer, played by the talented Cillian Murphy, finds himself faced with a daunting choice: to save the world, he must risk destroying it. Joining Murphy is the exceptional Emily Blunt, portraying Katherine “Kitty” Oppenheimer, a biologist and botanist who adds a compelling dynamic to the story. The star-studded cast also includes Matt Damon as General Leslie Groves Jr., the director of the Manhattan Project, and Robert Downey, Jr. as Lewis Strauss, a founding commissioner of the U.S. Atomic Energy Commission.
Florence Pugh, Benny Safdie, Michael Angarano, Josh Hartnett, Rami Malek, and Kenneth Branagh bring their exceptional talents to the screen, ensuring a cinematic experience like no other. With their combined prowess, you can expect intense performances that will stay with you long after the credits roll.
Drawing inspiration from the Pulitzer Prize-winning book “American Prometheus: The Triumph and Tragedy of J. Robert Oppenheimer” by Kai Bird and the late Martin J. Sherwin, Nolan weaves a gripping narrative that explores the complex themes of living in the atomic age and the role of scientists in society. It’s not just a film; it’s an opportunity to engage in a global conversation about the profound issues Oppenheimer sought to address.
“Oppenheimer” is shot in a breathtaking combination of IMAX® 65mm and 65mm large-format film photography, introducing sections in IMAX® black and white analogue photography for the first time. Nolan’s meticulous attention to detail and innovative approach to cinematography promise a visually stunning experience that will transport you straight into the heart of the narrative.
In a recent interview with Variety, co-author and historian Kai Bird expressed his awe after seeing the film, stating, “I am, at the moment, stunned and emotionally recovering from having seen it. I think it is going to be a stunning artistic achievement.” Bird believes that “Oppenheimer” has the potential to ignite a national and global dialogue about the atomic age, McCarthyism, patriotism, and the responsibility of scientists in a technology-driven society.
Mark your calendars, because “Oppenheimer” will hit Philippine cinemas on July 19, courtesy of Universal Pictures International. Don’t miss the chance to secure your tickets in advance by checking your favorite cinemas here. For the latest updates, be sure to follow Universal Pictures PH on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube.
After his 2020 sci-fi film Tenet, Christopher Nolan is back with the new biopic Oppenheimer, which has just released its official trailer. The new film follows the story of J. Robert Oppenheimer who must risk destroying the world in order to save it.
Watch the trailer for Oppenheimer below:
Based on the Pulitzer Prize-winning book American Prometheus: The Triumph and Tragedy of J. Robert Oppenheimer by Kai Bird and the late Martin J. Sherwin, Oppenheimer follows the eponymous man who was dubbed the father of the atomic bomb.
The film stars Cillian Murphy, Emily Blunt, Matt Damon, Robert Downey Jr., Florence Pugh, and Rami Malek. Oppenheimer is coming to US cinemas on July 21, 2023.
