Oppenheimer is a historical drama film that tells the complex story of J. Robert Oppenheimer, an American theoretical physicist who played a major role in the development of the atomic bomb during World War Two.

Directed by Christopher Nolan and based on the biography American Prometheus by Kai Bird and Martin J. Sherwin, the film focuses on Oppenheimer’s ground-breaking scientific work on the atomic bomb. It also focuses on his support of leftist ideas, which led to his downfall during the post-war anti-Communist campaign in the United States.

Cillian Murphy – best known for his role as Thomas Shelby in Peaky Blinders – delivers a stand-out performance as J. Robert Oppenheimer, portraying the man with an enigmatic and chilling charm. Murphy also bears a striking physical resemblance to Oppenheimer, with his slight stature, high cheekbones, and arresting stare.

Oppenheimer also yanks viewers back and forth between two separate government hearings in the 1950s, and flashes back in time for long stretches to tell the story of Oppenheimer’s life. I found this style of storytelling engaging, so much so that I hardly noticed the film’s three-hour run-time.

It does not delve too deeply into the scientific aspects of the atomic bomb. Rather, the film focuses more on Oppenheimer’s personal and political struggles, as well as his feud with Lewis Strauss (Robert Downey Jr.), who led the U.S. Atomic Energy Commission between 1953 and 1958. The film does feature several research physicists who worked with Oppenheimer, however, which lends authenticity to the story.

The cinematography is amazing. Oppenheimer was shot with high-quality 65mm film stock, making the visuals look sharp and crisp. Wide shots and vibrant colours capture Oppenheimer’s world, while closely-shot black-and-white sections depict Strauss’ point of view.

The film also stands out for its effective use of sound and music to heighten its emotional impact. Ludwig Göransson’s remarkable score and the recurring sound of heavy stomping feet add power, emotion, and seriousness to the story. The soundscape reminded me of the terrible aspects of war and the significant results of scientific discoveries.

Oppenheimer is a thought-provoking exploration of J. Robert Oppenheimer’s life, accomplishments, and the complexities of the era in which he lived. It is a must-watch for history enthusiasts and film buffs alike.

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World War Two had significant effects on Tasmania, just like the rest of Australia. Even though it was far from the main battlegrounds, the island state still experienced the war’s impacts.

An air raid shelter in Franklin Square, Hobart (1942)

There was a labour shortage in various local industries because a lot of men were sent away to fight on the front lines, so Tasmanian women took on roles that were traditionally done by men.

Air raid shelters, slit trenches, and casualty stations were built across Tasmania. The Australian Army also arrived and established airfields, naval facilities, and defence fortifications.

Additionally, Tasmania experienced rationing of essential goods – just like the rest of Australia and other parts of the world. This was necessary to support the war effort and ensure that the military had enough supplies.

A military parade in Hobart (1940)

World War Two caused anxiety and grief in Tasmania, as well. Families faced the emotional strain of having their loved ones serving overseas, and many experienced the loss of relatives and friends.

The war effort boosted Tasmania’s economy, however. Industries like agriculture saw increased demand because they provided essential resources for the war. Some manufacturing sectors also expanded to produce war-related goods, like munitions and equipment. All this created job opportunities for Tasmanians.

After the end of World War Two, Tasmania went through significant changes in its society and economy. Many servicemen returned home, and the military scaled down, which led to adjustments in the workforce and society. There was also an increase in immigration to Tasmania. People from war-torn Europe and other parts of the world came to the island seeking a new life, leading to massive urbanisation.

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Callum J. Jones studied English, History, and Journalism at the University of Tasmania. He has written fiction and non-fiction for Tasmanian Times since 2018, and can be traced by the smell of fresh coffee.

Follow him on Twitter (@Callum_Jones_10) and Facebook (@callum.j.jones.creative).