Films about the Manhattan Project
The Manhattan Project was a top-secret research project during World War II that aimed to develop the first atomic bomb. This historical event has been the subject of several films, capturing the intrigue, drama, and ethical dilemmas surrounding the project. Here are some existing films about the Manhattan Project:
“Fat Man and Little Boy”, 1989
Director: Roland Joffé
This film portrays the complex relationship between J. Robert Oppenheimer, the scientific director of the Manhattan Project, and General Leslie Groves, the military leader in charge of the project. It delves into the moral implications of creating such a destructive weapon.
Starring: Paul Newman, Dwight Schultz, Bonnie Bedelia, John Cusack, Laura Dern, Ron Frazier, John C. McGinley, Natasha Richardson, Ron Vawter, Michael Brockman, Del Close, John Considine, Allan Corduner, Joe D'Angerio, Jon DeVries, James Eckhouse, Todd Field, Mary Pat Gleason, Clark Gregg, Péter Halász, Gerald Hiken, Arthur Holden, Ed Lauter, Donald MacKechnie, Madison Mason, Christoph Pieczynski, Don Pugsley, Logan Ramsey, Fred Thompson, Jim True-Frost, Barry Yourgrau, Marek Alboszta, Steven Baigelman, Frank Benettieri Jr., Roger Cubicciotti, Franco Cutietta, Robert Peter Gale, Wesley Harrison, Brent Harrison, Tom McFarlane, David C. Parnes, Allen Poirson, David Politzer, Bill Rubenstein, Ken Strausbaugh, Walter Sullivan, Brian Wandell, John Williams, Walker Edmiston, Matthew Faison;
Production year: 1989;
Genre: biography, drama, history;
MPAA rating: pg13;
Duration: 127 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 6,5;
More information about the film “Fat Man and Little Boy” on the website imdb.com
“The Beginning or the End”, 1947
Director: Norman Taurog
Based on true events, this film provides a dramatized account of the Manhattan Project, its development, and the decision to drop the atomic bombs on Hiroshima and Nagasaki. It explores the moral and political considerations surrounding this pivotal moment in history.
Starring: Brian Donlevy, Robert Walker, Tom Drake, Beverly Tyler, Audrey Totter, Hume Cronyn, Hurd Hatfield, Joseph Calleia, Godfrey Tearle, Victor Francen, Richard Haydn, Jonathan Hale, John Litel, Henry O'Neill, Warner Anderson, Barry Nelson, Art Baker, Ludwig Stössel, John Hamilton, Frank Ferguson, Tom Stevenson, John Gallaudet, Nella Walker, Edward Earle, Moroni Olsen, Norman Lloyd, Jim Davis, Charles Trowbridge, Frank Wilcox, Henry Hall, Paul Harvey, Larry Johns, Robert Emmett Keane, James Bush, Trevor Bardette, William Wright, Damian O'Flynn, Richard Abbott, Philip Ahlm, John Albright, Erville Alderson, Kirk Alyn, Rod Bacon, Frank Baker, Walter Baldwin, John Banner, Gregg Barton, Holger Bendixen, Lee Bennett, Joseph E. Bernard;
Production year: 1947;
Genre: drama, war, biography, history;
Duration: 112 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 6,6;
More information about the film “The Beginning or the End” on the website imdb.com
“The Day After Trinity”, 1981
Director: Jon Else
Through interviews and archival footage, this documentary focuses on the life and work of J. Robert Oppenheimer, the brilliant physicist who led the scientific team responsible for the atomic bomb's creation. It delves into the personal struggles and ethical dilemmas faced by Oppenheimer and his colleagues.
Starring: Hans Bethe, Holm Bursom, Haakon Chevalier, Stirling Colgate, Freeman Dyson, Jon Else, Susan Evans, Francis Fergusson, Paul Frees, Leslie Groves, Elizabeth Ingram, Robert Krohn, Dave MacDonald, Joseph McCarthy, Dorothy McKibben, Frank Oppenheimer, Robert Oppenheimer, Robert Porton, Isidor Isaac Rabi, Robert Serber, Francoise Ulam, Stanislaw Ulam, Jane Wilson, Robert R. Wilson;
Production year: 1981;
Genre: documentary, biography;
Duration: 88 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 7,8;
These films provide different perspectives on the Manhattan Project, shedding light on the scientific, moral, and political dimensions of this pivotal moment in history. Each film offers a unique exploration of the complex issues surrounding the development of the atomic bomb and its far-reaching consequences.
In conclusion, the selection of films about the Manhattan Project offers a captivating glimpse into one of the most significant events in human history. Each film delves deep into the moral dilemmas, scientific breakthroughs, and personal sacrifices that were integral to the development of the atomic bomb. From the heart-wrenching “Fat Man and Little Boy” to the suspenseful “The Manhattan Project,” these movies beautifully capture the complexities and ethical implications of harnessing such immense power. With their compelling narratives and powerful performances, these films not only educate but also leave viewers pondering the consequences of scientific advancement and the responsibility it entails.
