re: Just watched Oppenheimer for the first time at home

Friend,

I might assume you have not read either Brighter than a Thousand Suns and American Prometheus. Both are far more interesting and more insightful than the movie. It has been nearly thirty years since I read the former and nearly twenty since I read the latter, and the film from my view is a fairly interesting depiction of both books. But that is it. And the idea that the film is groundbreaking or adds anything to the discussion about Oppenheimer, other scientists behind the bomb or the bomb itself, does not fly. Nolan, I would assume, read those books and decided to use them to form his film.

The film was interesting for a single viewing, to see the words of those books put on film. But the books give far more insight into the men and the times. It was not a bad film, nor was it a great one. It was a solid biopic. But the books bring to life the arguments in a far superior and more engaging way. Perhaps had I not read those books in my youth where they became a part of me, I might have enjoyed the movie more, for it would have felt like virgin territory. Instead, the film was an overworn trailhead leading to a view appreciated years ago.

Saved millions of lives seems an interesting way of describing the decision that birthed the culture of death. Nonetheless, it was enjoyable seeing again The Institute for Advanced Study, a beautiful place where I have enjoyed many meaningful walks.

Yours,
TulaneLSU