Christopher Nolan’s award-winningOppenheimerwas one of the biggest movies of 2023, with a massively impressive box office and high praise from both critics and audiences. However, the film’s depiction of nudity and sexual intimacy did not pass without some controversy, with several online conversations debating the necessity for these scenes, which involved starsCillian Murphyand Florence Pugh. In aNew York Timesinterview, Murphy hit back at the criticism, defending these elements as integral to the film’s story.
Oppenheimeris Nolan’s epic biopic of physicist J. Robert Oppenheimer and delves into the complex life of the man behind the atomic bomb. The film gained itself an R-rating, and while it is mostly devoid of explicit content, Nolan’s narrative doesn’t shy away from portraying Oppenheimer’s tumultuous affair with Jean Tatlock, played by Pugh. Murphy emphasized the necessity of these scenes in understanding Oppenheimer’s life, particularly their impact on his career.
If you’re familiar with the story, it was his relationship with Jean Tatlock which was the thing that really made him lose his security clearance and ultimately kind of cost his career. I think it was vital to highlight the intimacy and closeness of their relationship.
Murphy’s portrayal of Oppenheimer has earned him widespread recognition, including an Oscar nomination for Best Actor, but whether he can claim the accolade is something that is still very much in the air.
10 Ways to Get the Absolute Best Oppenheimer Experience When Re-Watching
Even if you have already watched Oppenheimer, this article will tell you exactly how to watch it or re-watch it to get the most out of this journey.
Oppenheimer’s Success Relied on Cillian Murphy’s Performance
Oppenheimerhas been an astounding success, arriving at a time when many cinemas have been struggling to draw in large audiences, and becoming one of the highest grossing movies of the decade despite its troubling subject matter and lack of “blockbuster” appeal. However, the combination of some intense performances from Murphy and the rest of the star-studded cast, impressive special effects, and Nolan’s directorial prowess ensured thatOppenheimerdid not become a box office bomb.
Previously nominated eight times at the Academy Awards,Nolan is hopeful for an Oscar winwith the movie, although he does have some tough competition from the likes of Martin Scorsese and Yorgos Lanthimos. With nominations in almost every main category, though, it is unlikely thatOppenheimerwill disappoint with its Oscars haul in March.
Oppenheimer
Murphy has a very good chance of taking home the Best Actor award, following his win at the Golden Globes. Having embodied the character of Oppenheimer, Nolan recently shared his comparison of Murphy’s transformation to another actor to have won an Oscar under his direction; Heath Ledger. Nolan drew parallels betweenMurphy’s portrayal of Oppenheimer and Ledger’s iconic JokerinThe Dark Knight, underlining the depth and intensity Murphy brought to the character.
What is clear that Murphy’s opinion on the necessity ofOppenheimer’s intimate scenes seems to be correct, having added to the portrayal of the scientist’s life outside his well-known connection to the atomic bomb. While this will always bring about some complaints, they have done nothing to diminish the success of the film, which will continue across the coming Awards season.
Oppenheimer is available to buy or rent on Prime Video, and comes to Peacock on February 16.
