Following the acclaimed ‘Oppenheimer’, Netflix delivers another docudrama exploring the moral dilemmas of the Manhattan Project. “Einstein and the Bomb” focuses on the brilliant physicist Albert Einstein and his journey from pacifism to advocating for atomic development, a decision he would deeply regret.
Director Anthony Philipson cleverly blends dramatic scenes (starring Aidan McArdle as Einstein) with historical footage. The screenplay draws directly from Einstein’s own writings. While some aspects are rough around the edges, this hybrid approach humanizes history, making it feel immediate and accessible.
The film vividly portrays Einstein’s flight from the Nazi regime due to his Jewish heritage and pacifist stance, underscoring his early awareness of Hitler’s evil. This context is vital; it led Einstein to urge President Roosevelt to pursue atomic development before Germany. Yet, he never foresaw the devastation these weapons would cause.
We witness Einstein grapple with his role – his ideas, while not directly creating the bomb, made it possible. His remorse over the bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki mirrors broader nuclear anxieties that persist today.
“Einstein and the Bomb” packs a powerful punch in less than 80 minutes. It invites contemplation of scientific accountability and the weight of moral choices during wartime. If you’re eager to explore the impact of the Manhattan Project beyond ‘Oppenheimer’, ‘Einstein and the Bomb’ is a thought-provoking addition to your watchlist. You can stream it now on Netflix.
