Movies to Watch If You Liked 'Oppenheimer': Films for Science Enthusiasts

Berfin Ceren Meray
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'Oppenheimer,' directed by Christopher Nolan, delves into the life of J. Robert Oppenheimer, the brilliant mind behind the development of the atomic bomb during World War II. It's a film that delves deep into the complexities of science, morality, and the consequences of innovation. If you found yourself captivated by Oppenheimer's story and are eager for more thought-provoking films that explore the realm of science, history, and human genius, we've curated a list of movies to keep your intellectual curiosity alive.

1. "Tesla" (2020):

While not about the electric car company, 'Tesla' is a biopic that explores the life of inventor Nikola Tesla, portrayed by Ethan Hawke. Much like Oppenheimer, Tesla's inventions and contributions to the world were ahead of their time. This film is perfect for history enthusiasts and fans of Christopher Nolan's 'The Prestige,' as it delves into the world of scientific innovation and its impact.

2. "Radioactive" (2019):

'Radioactive' tells the story of Marie Curie, played by Rosamund Pike, and her discovery of polonium and radium, unaware of the dangerous consequences of their radioactivity. This film draws parallels to Oppenheimer, as both stories revolve around the unintended repercussions of scientific advancements. It's a gripping period drama that sheds light on the ethical dilemmas of pioneering scientific discoveries.

3. "The Theory of Everything":

Although focused on physicist Stephen Hawking rather than J. Robert Oppenheimer, 'The Theory of Everything' is a must-watch biopic. The film, starring Eddie Redmayne and Felicity Jones, explores Hawking's brilliant scientific mind and his personal struggles with ALS. It highlights the emotional and intellectual challenges faced by individuals who push the boundaries of science.

4. "Hidden Figures" (2016):

'Hidden Figures' is a historical drama that celebrates the unsung heroes of NASA's John Glenn orbital launch, three Black female mathematicians played by Taraji P. Henson, Octavia Spencer, and Janelle Monae. While not a scientific breakthrough in itself, this film shares the theme of underappreciated contributions to science, making it an important addition to your watchlist.

5. "The Imitation Game" (2014):

Benedict Cumberbatch delivers a mesmerizing performance as Alan Turing in 'The Imitation Game,' a film set during WWII that explores the decryption of Nazi codes. Like Oppenheimer, Turing's genius and personal struggles are central to the narrative, offering a riveting look into the world of intellectual pursuits.

6. "A Beautiful Mind" (2001):

Russell Crowe stars in 'A Beautiful Mind,' a film that delves into the life of mathematician John Forbes Nash Jr. Similar to Oppenheimer, the movie focuses on Nash's mental health journey alongside his groundbreaking work in economics. It underscores the pressure of success and the importance of self-discovery in the world of science.

7. "Interstellar" (2014):

'Interstellar,' directed by Christopher Nolan, is a space adventure that, while not a biopic, explores scientific breakthroughs and the personal consequences of pursuing discovery. With a heart-wrenching storyline and mind-bending concepts, it's a film that resonates with Oppenheimer's themes of science and its profound impact.

8. "The Social Network":

For those seeking a more modern take on the themes of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics, 'The Social Network' offers a captivating biopic of Mark Zuckerberg's life and the rise of social media. Just as Oppenheimer's work changed the world, so did the invention of social media, making this film a relevant and intriguing choice for fans of innovation and its consequences.