"Oppenheimer," Christopher Nolan's recently released film that became a hit of the summer, has sparked debate among historians and nuclear experts about how accurately it tells the story of Julius Robert, the father of the atomic bomb. Alex Wallerstein, a historian and nuclear professor, offers a critical analysis of the film's historical accuracy and description of Oppenheimer's complex life.
Wallerstein studied Oppenheimer for two decades, and admits that, unlike previous biographies that often present Oppenheimer as a hero, the current film attempts to provide a more subtle and accurate representation of the man and the era in which he lived. But despite the film's commitment to scientific, technical, and historical accuracy, Wallerstein notes that it may be too heavy for the average viewer due to its length and the amount of material it is trying to present.
According to him, it would have been better to release a 10-hour miniseries that would adequately cover all the points that the film is trying to insert, rather than a three-hour film that tires viewers but does not have enough time to explain broad historical contexts.
The film raises questions about Oppenheimer's success and the world he helped create. Wallerstein explains that Oppenheimer expressed no remorse for his involvement in the atomic bomb project. However, he believed that the use of nuclear weapons during World War II would clarify its destructive power, and deter future use. While Oppenheimer's efforts contributed to the establishment of nuclear non-proliferation measures, he would likely have warned that the current situation posed an existential threat to the entire world.
Wallerstein emphasizes the importance of using Oppenheimer as a catalyst for discussions about the future of nuclear weapons. He criticizes the film for failing to delve into the non-proliferation and use of nuclear weapons, which Oppenheimer promoted after the war, and the possibilities of preventing nuclear warfare.
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