The atomic bomb, a weapon of mass destruction, has left an indelible mark on human history. These films delve into the lives of the scientists, politicians, and ordinary people involved in its creation and aftermath, offering a unique perspective on one of the most pivotal moments in history. This collection not only entertains but also educates, providing a deeper understanding of the ethical, scientific, and human aspects of nuclear warfare.

The Day After Trinity (1981)
Description: A documentary that examines the life of J. Robert Oppenheimer and the development of the atomic bomb, featuring interviews with key figures from the Manhattan Project.
Fact: The film includes rare footage from the Trinity test, the first nuclear explosion.


Fat Man and Little Boy (1989)
Description: A dramatization of the Manhattan Project, this film focuses on the relationship between General Leslie Groves and physicist J. Robert Oppenheimer.
Fact: Paul Newman, who played General Groves, was initially hesitant to take the role due to the film's controversial subject matter.


Oppenheimer (2023)
Description: This film explores the life of J. Robert Oppenheimer, the physicist who led the Manhattan Project, focusing on his internal conflicts and the moral dilemmas he faced.
Fact: The film was shot in IMAX to capture the vastness of the Los Alamos landscape. Cillian Murphy, known for his role in Peaky Blinders, plays Oppenheimer.


The Trials of J. Robert Oppenheimer (2008)
Description: This documentary focuses on the security hearings that led to Oppenheimer's downfall, exploring his political affiliations and the impact on his career.
Fact: The film uses archival footage and interviews to provide a balanced view of Oppenheimer's controversial life.


Above and Beyond (2014)
Description: This documentary tells the story of the pilots who flew the atomic bomb missions over Hiroshima and Nagasaki, focusing on their personal journeys.
Fact: The film includes interviews with the last surviving members of the 509th Composite Group.


The Bomb (2015)
Description: An animated documentary that traces the history of nuclear weapons, from their inception to the present day, with a focus on the scientists' perspectives.
Fact: The film uses a mix of animation styles to depict the complex scientific concepts in an accessible way.


The Beginning or the End (1947)
Description: One of the earliest films to depict the Manhattan Project, it provides a dramatized account of the bomb's development and the decision to use it.
Fact: The film was produced with the cooperation of the U.S. government, and General Leslie Groves was involved in its production.


The Atomic Cafe (1982)
Description: A satirical documentary that uses archival footage from the 1940s and 1950s to examine the American public's perception of the atomic bomb.
Fact: The film was one of the first to use found footage to create a narrative, influencing many documentaries that followed.


Hiroshima (1995)
Description: This film recounts the events leading up to and following the atomic bombing of Hiroshima, focusing on the experiences of both American and Japanese individuals.
Fact: The film was part of a larger project by ABC to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the end of World War II.


Trinity and Beyond (1995)
Description: A documentary that covers the history of nuclear testing, from the Manhattan Project to the Cold War, with a focus on the scientists involved.
Fact: The film includes declassified footage of nuclear tests, some of which were previously unseen by the public.
