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1. Cy Tritschler 03.02.24 / 11pm

   The review of Christopher Nolan’s “Oppenheimer” provides an insightful look into the film’s ambitious storytelling and technical achievements. Nolan’s careful attention to detail, especially in how the story unfolds in a three part act and the intense suspense of the bomb test scene, shows his talent as a director. Cillian Murphy’s portrayal of J. Robert Oppenheimer is praised as a standout performance, bringing depth and humanity to the character’s moral dilemmas and personal struggles. The review effectively points out how the film explores the ethical consequences of scientific advancements and the complexities of human nature. Overall, “Oppenheimer” seems to be a remarkable movie that combines spectacle with thoughtful reflection, solidifying Christopher Nolan’s reputation as a master filmmaker.
2. Logan Mikalis 03.11.24 / 1pm

   “Oppenheimer” stands as a remarkable testament to Christopher Nolan’s mastery of cinematic storytelling, as he was able to capture the depth and complexity of J. Robert Oppenheimer’s life with great detail. Nolan’s direction, which is evident in the film’s three-act structure, effectively traces Oppenheimer’s evolution from physicist to the pivotal figure behind the atomic bomb. The film’s central scene, the testing of the bomb, highlights the suspense and thematic depth, showing Nolan’s ability to connect personal stakes with monumental consequences. The actor Cillian Murphy’s portrayal of Oppenheimer adds a layer of humanity to the narrative, making it a compelling exploration of ambition, responsibility, and the ethical dilemmas of scientific progress. Overall, “Oppenheimer” is a testament to cinema’s power to showcase significant moments of history and highlight the introspection on the human condition.
3. Yael Rosenhan 03.11.24 / 7pm

   Reading through your review gave me a glimpse into your perspective of this masterful film and it’s incredible narrative/storytelling. Christopher Nolan truly never ceases to amaze me. He is an expert at what he does, and like you mentioned, this film lets his skill shine, particularly in the 2nd act. I would go further to say that the end scene was so impactful that it floors the audience, forcing one to sit in the feeling that is left when the film ends, which is another thing that Nolan is particularly good at in my opinion. Cillian Murphy gave a show stopping performance, which adds even more depth to such a well crafted piece of cinema. I have watched this film a total of 3 times now, and I am left with no words every time. Overall, Oppenheimer is an incredible film, and I really enjoyed reading through your well-crafted review of the film.
4. Ian Piala 03.12.24 / 6pm

   This review beautifully encapsulates the layers of Christopher Nolan’s “Oppenheimer,” showcasing its ability to navigate the complexities of both historical narrative and ethical ambition. The three-act structure mirrors Oppenheimer’s transformative journey, from scientific curiosity to the weighty burden of his creation’s destructive potential. Nolan’s directorial prowess shines brightest in the film’s pivotal atomic bomb testing scene, a masterclass in tension-building and visual storytelling that underscores the paradox of scientific achievement. The review aptly highlights Cillian Murphy’s remarkable performance, which serves as the emotional anchor amidst the film’s grand themes. Indeed, “Oppenheimer” emerges not only as a technical marvel but also as a profound meditation on humanity’s capacity for both brilliance and destruction, a testament to Nolan’s ability to provoke introspection through the lens of cinema.
5. Charlee Vargas 03.13.24 / 10am

   This review captures the essence of Christopher Nolan’s “Oppenheimer,” highlighting the film’s remarkable depth and complexity in portraying J. Robert Oppenheimer’s life. The meticulous three-act structure is lauded for effectively tracing Oppenheimer’s journey, with particular emphasis on Cillian Murphy’s career-defining performance. The review appropriately commends Nolan’s directorial genius, especially in the second act’s atomic bomb testing sequence, which is described as a cinematic marvel and a thematic pinnacle. The third act’s exploration of the ethical, psychological, and societal aftermath further underscores Nolan’s storytelling prowess. Despite the film’s lengthy runtime, the review praises its gripping pace and hails “Oppenheimer” as a technical marvel and a profound human narrative, solidifying Nolan’s status as a master filmmaker.
6. Davis Apor 03.13.24 / 11am

   This review of the film “Oppenheimer” clearly highlights the important parts that should be included in a movie review. By breaking down the 3 different acts and summarizing it at the end we get a full picture of the film. The review touches on aspects in the film such as the history of J. Robert Oppenheimer and how he became the person we know. The review also focuses on technical skills used to create the movie such as different cinematography shots that can create different effects for the viewer. The film stands out due to Christopher Nolans attention to detail focusing on creating a well made narrative. Cillian Murphy’s acting performance was described in the review as a “career defining performance”, this turned out to be true as he won “Best Actor” at the 2024 Oscar’s.
7. Owen Wolk 03.13.24 / 2pm

   This review of Christopher Nolan’s Oscars sweeping masterpiece, “Oppenheimer”, is an excellent summary of what made the film so great and award winning. The review captures the nuances of Nolan’s brilliance and highlights his ability to tell an interesting, emotional, and thought provoking story. The breakdown of the 3 Act Structure is a great summary of the events of the film and provides good insight into what Nolan achieves with each act. The breakdown highlights not only the exciting story of the creation of the atomic bomb but also the political, societal, and emotional aftermath that entailed. Overall, this review is a great testament to the cinematic masterpiece that is “Oppenheimer”.
8. Jackson Giek 03.13.24 / 4pm

   This review does a great job capturing the essence of Christopher Nolan’s “Oppenheimer,” highlighting its meticulous storytelling and profound thematic exploration. Nolan’s adept direction is emphasized in the second act, where the tension of the atomic bomb test scene reaches a crescendo, masterfully blending personal stakes with the implications of scientific progress. The reviewer aptly notes the symbolic power of the red button, encapsulating the film’s central theme of the thin line between achievement and catastrophe. Moreover, the review acknowledges the film’s exploration of the ethical and psychological aftermath of the atomic bomb’s creation, showcasing Nolan’s skill in navigating complex moral landscapes. Cillian Murphy’s portrayal of J. Robert Oppenheimer is rightly praised for its depth and nuance, anchoring the film’s exploration of ambition, responsibility, and the human condition. Overall, the review effectively conveys the film’s technical brilliance and its ability to provoke introspection on the consequences of scientific innovation. It’s a testament to Nolan’s filmmaking prowess and a reminder of cinema’s capacity to grapple with significant moments in history.
9. Rowan Mcalister 03.13.24 / 7pm

   Hi Riley, Your review of, “Oppenheimer” by Christopher Nolan was amazing. Your view and explanation of this film gave me a whole new perspective. I liked the way you broke this film down into three parts. It makes a bunch of sense and is very clear as the first part builds up to the next event, the bomb test, and then the film starts to wrap afterward for the third part. I couldn’t agree more with your analysis of Nolan’s film and how good of a job he did. Couldn’t agree more with your analysis of Cillian Murphys as well, he did an excellent job acting in this film.
10. Yasmin Belazi 03.13.24 / 11pm

    Hi Riley,
    I really enjoyed reading your review on the film “Oppenheimer”, I loved how detailed you made your response, by including your reactions and broke down the film into the acts. When i watched the film my favorite act was probably the third because I felt like it gave a lot more information about the bomb itself. Although, I did also really enjoy the first act because it gave an insight on Oppenheimer and the way his life was before creating the atomic bomb. I also really loved the way you described the bomb test scene by using words like “breathtaking” and “catastrophic”.
11. Haven Phillips 03.14.24 / 6pm

    Hi, Riley
    I really enjoyed reading your response and thought you did an incredible job analyzing the film “Oppenheimer”. I think that since the film is three hours long, you can write about it forever it feels like. I like how you wrote about the scenes and characters that were broke down into certain acts. I also really liked how you described certain scenes especially the bomb testing scene. One thing I really enjoyed about this film is that the cinematography was amazing. Overall great job on this Riley!!
12. Felix Nilsson 03.14.24 / 6pm

    I really enjoyed reading this review of the film “Oppenheimer”, in your review you highlight Nolan’s directorial brilliance, particularly in the second act’s suspenseful depiction of the bomb’s testing. I like how you describe the scene as a cinematic marvel, capturing both the tension of the moment and the profound implications of scientific progress. I also like how you touch on Cillian Murphy’s performance in this movie, and how he portrays J. Robert Oppenheimer’s inner conflict when he was standing with the bomb showing him and a big red button.
13. alex gonzalez 03.15.24 / 12am

    This movie was truly amazing, I was worried it was going to be bad due to things I heard online about it being long and boring, but the movie has a way of pulling you in despite the long running time. I enjoyed how you broke down the bomb test scene, it was very impressive how Nolan was able to make this scene so intense. Although the bomb scene was riveting, I personally enjoyed the third act the most. The scenes where Oppinheimer’s friends and colleagues were being deposed in front of him were amazing and added a new layer to the movie that I belive really brought it together. Overall great review
14. Steven Vivaldi 03.15.24 / 1pm

    Hi Riley,
    You have given a thoughtful review. It gave a thorough summary of the film. I like your analysis of the Trinity test. There is so much beauty involved in the frontier of physics alongside the actual display of the bomb. Contrasted with its power to be the most destructive weapon ever created by humanity. This film almost has 4 acts. You did not really mention but Oppenheimer’s reputation battle with Strauss (RDJ) brough an entire other element to the film. It presented how humans can be so deeply flawed, even ones in great positions of power. As rational as we can be to build a bomb. The decision to use it can be up to one person’s personal vendetta or ego.
15. Apple Walton 03.15.24 / 3pm

    This movie was worthy of every Oscar it earned as well as creating such a beautiful film of history and time that people didn’t realize was so important. The way you described the movie and each of its sequences, as well as used such implicit words that fit the film so directly. Your analysis on the film and what you had seen truly is something else. The way you broke into each sector and portion of the movie whilst also keeping it somewhat sweet and short at the same time.
16. Shane Grummitt 03.15.24 / 4pm

    Oppenheimer was truly a very informative, breathtaking movie. It didn’t just show you the fun bomb explosion parts, it dived deep into the psychological warfare Oppenheimer went through as you were talking about. I loved how you were able to break up the movie into 4 act structure, as 2 building conflicts were talked about. Cillian Murphy’s acting was truly wonderful. He was able to become Oppenheimer and his set and wardrobe brought me into the time setting. Thank you Riley for the review!
17. Rome Jiannalone 03.15.24 / 4pm

    Hi Riley,
    I enjoyed your analysis of the film “Oppenheimer” by Christopher Nolan. It brilliantly blends historical drama with in-depth thematic examination, as this perceptive review of the movie illustrates. The depiction of the detailed artistic ability that went into each act, particularly the atomic bomb test’s suspenseful climax, showcases Nolan’s brilliance as a director. Cillian Murphy’s portrayal of J. Robert Oppenheimer is highly praised for its nuance and resonance, which serve to ground the story in the complexity of humanity as a whole. All things considered, “Oppenheimer” seems to be a masterpiece of film that raises important moral questions while still being a source of entertainment. I have watched Oppenheimer just once due to its long runtime, but I was fascinated by every second of it.
18. Judah B 03.15.24 / 4pm

    This critique of Nolan’s “oppenheimer” offered an amazing
    analysis of the films narrative. The film was highly ambitious and showcased the directors technical prowess. His craftsmanship of the film and storytelling structure really created a gripping tension within the film. This film truly infused the main character with personal turmoil that resonated heavily with the viewer. The review truly highlights its exploration of moral implication as well as human behavior. In essence this film remarkely blends the aspects of human morals with Christoper Nolans cinematic prowess.
19. Judah B 03.15.24 / 4pm

    This critique of Nolan’s “oppenheimer” offered an amazing
    analysis of the films narrative. The film was highly ambitious and showcased the directors technical prowess. His craftsmanship of the film and storytelling structure really created a gripping tension within the film. This film truly infused the main character with personal turmoil that resonated heavily with the viewer. The review truly highlights its exploration of moral implication as well as human behavior. In essence this film remarkely blends the aspects of human morals with Christoper Nolans cinematic prowess.
20. Brittney Hopkins 03.15.24 / 5pm

    Hi Riley,
    Your eloquent review of Christopher Nolan’s “Oppenheimer” beautifully captures the film’s multifaceted exploration of J. Robert Oppenheimer’s life and the profound ethical dilemmas surrounding the creation of the atomic bomb. Your analysis of the three-act structure and the pivotal moments within each act adeptly highlights the narrative’s depth and complexity. I believe that Murphy’s nuanced performance not only humanizes Oppenheimer but also invites audiences to empathize with the moral complexities inherent in his decisions. Overall great review and I enjoyed this movie as well!
21. Camila Diaz 03.15.24 / 6pm

    This review of “Oppenheimer” provides a clear understanding of the movie, its character and the directors take on the movie. Christopher Nolan did an amazing job at portraying the rise and fall J. Robert Oppenheimer. The author of this review did a great job in breaking up the movie into four sections and clearly analyzing each one. They also did a great job at pin pointing the climax in this film which was the testing of the atomic bomb, which was even crazier to see in theaters. Christopher Nolan did a great job with the special effects of this movie and bringing the life of J. Robert Oppenheimer to life on screen.
22. Will Foy 03.15.24 / 7pm

    The film, “Oppenheimer”, as well as this review gives a lot of interesting material to discuss related to film studies. The narrative structure of this film was composed very well and organized into three acts, but this did not make the story predictable or boring for the audience. The themes from this film such as the consequences of scientific progression are impactful to the audience and are expressed with lots of detail and emotion. This review does a good job at highlighting and explaining this theme as well as how it becomes what the third act of the film is all about.
23. Olivia Fragomeli 03.15.24 / 9pm

    This movie will be talked about for a very long time. Not only was it informational, but it was fascinating to watch. Cillian Murphy’s acting was amazing and all the other actors in the film were wonderful to watch. I 100% agree with all of the awards given to this film. I suggest this film for all people to watch. Not only was it intriguing but it was truly amazing to watch.
24. Marcos Ramirez 03.15.24 / 11pm

    Oppenheimer is a beautifully executed film, I think straying from the classical Hollywood Narrative in some ways, but works so well; and in turn, has been so widely appreciated. I think your analysis and classification of this film into 3 acts holds true as there are definitely those distinguishable conflicts and turning points we notice watching the film, and after the second act – because of the lengthy amount of rising action to the climax – it’s almost an entirely different film. I especially loved reading your analysis of Nolan’s storytelling and commentary on the, “human condition and the ethical boundaries of innovation,” as Cillian Murphy masterfully embodies Oppenheimer navigating public fallout and extensive internal conflict. I think your explanation of the “duality of scientific progress,” was profound and Nolan certainly crafted the detonation scene to perfection with his ‘near minute-long pause,’ which more than allowed for viewer introspection on what this success truly meant. All in all, a magnificent film with much depth, and an equally so review on your part.
25. Samuel 03.16.24 / 8pm

    Christopher Nolan’s “Oppenheimer” is a testament to his cinematic storytelling, capturing the depth and complexity of J. Robert Oppenheimer’s life. Nolan’s meticulous attention to detail is evident in the film’s three-part structure, tracing Oppenheimer’s evolution from physicist to the pivotal figure behind the atomic bomb. More specifically, the suspense of the bomb test scene exemplifies Nolan’s directorial talent, blending personal stakes with monumental consequences. Cillian Murphy’s portrayal of Oppenheimer is a standout performance, bringing depth to the character’s moral dilemmas and personal struggles. The film effectively shows the ethical consequences of scientific advancements and the complexities of human nature, solidifying Nolan’s reputation as a master filmmaker. Throughout the review, Nolan’s ability to shows introspection through the lens of cinema is highlighted, showcasing the film’s technical brilliance and profound thematic exploration. I loved your perspective and as it helped me shape mine, thank you for sharing.
26. Bashar Kabbarah 03.17.24 / 6pm

    Oppenheimer being one of my latest favorite films, this review really struck a cord with me. Your description of the bomb test in the second act perfectly encapsulates the almost stressfully suspenseful environment Nolan attempts to build. As you put it, we as the audience truly “can bear no more” as the scene unfolds before us, witnessing the climax of the film in breath-taking visuals and shows of light. As you point out Nolan’s use of silence here is particularly fascinating; in a scene where we expect to experience the most amount of noise, we are met with complete silence, left to wrestle with our emotions of uncertainty and suspense before the explosion roars to life.
27. Benjamin Gomez 03.21.24 / 6pm

    This review excellently captures the depth and complexity of Christopher Nolan’s “Oppenheimer,” particularly in its portrayal of J. Robert Oppenheimer’s journey and the moral quandaries surrounding the atomic bomb’s creation. Nolan’s direction shines, especially in the second act, where suspense culminates in the bomb’s testing, highlighting the personal stakes and global implications of the scientists’ work. The film’s ability to balance Oppenheimer’s personal narrative with broader ethical questions resonates with our class discussions on the impact of scientific innovation. It serves as a poignant reminder of the human condition and the responsibilities that accompany groundbreaking discoveries. “Oppenheimer” seems to offer a profound exploration of history and morality, challenging viewers to consider the consequences of scientific progress.
28. Christina Culley 03.23.24 / 4pm

    I wholeheartedly agree with the assertion that the film’s exposition “sets the stage” for the moral and rational dilemmas to follow. The denouncement brilliantly captures the development of the man who was to flirt with the boundaries of scientific thought. Christopher Nolan does an amazing job highlighting the actors’ skills and using mise-en-scene to make the audience wonder at a such a spectacle of discovery. There is an array of beauty and disruption throughout the film and you will leave digesting what you just witnessed.
29. Morgan Bradley 03.23.24 / 10pm

    I think this review really does incapsulate the essence and emotion behind the different segments of this film and something that I also noticed when watching is how the music/ sound effects and visuals really aided in the impact of many of the major scenes of the film. An example being the “Can you hear the music” The absolute masterpiece of a musical piece this is and how it allows us to feel exactly how Robert is feeling throughout the movie making absolutely monumental decisions that could define the fate of the world. Overall I think you did a incredible job with this review and I just wish you included a little more of the impact of the music on the film.
30. Liam Ellison 03.24.24 / 8pm

    I loved the film “Oppenheimer” and feel that it was one of Christopher Nolan’s many works of art. I felt that your review successfully captures the many aspects that make the film excel. I agree that the clear three act structure helps make the film entertaining as well as suspenseful. I also loved your insight on the climax of the film and how the lack of audio gave the audience an opportunity to reflect on accomplishment. This scene is both the lowest, as well as the highest point throughout the film and the cinematography as well as sound design helps create the impactful scene. Thank you for your beautiful review.
31. Cristopher Sarabia 03.29.24 / 1pm

    “Oppenheimer” unfolds in three distinct acts, the film shows the protagonist’s journey from an ambitious young physicist up to the “father of the atomic bomb.” The first act sets the film, introducing us to Oppenheimer’s early years and his important role in the development of the atomic bomb. Cillian Murphy delivers a convincing portrayal of the complex role, capturing both his intelligence and his inner commotion. However, it is in the second act where Nolan’s direction is focused on his later days. The tension builds steadily as Oppenheimer and his team race against time to test the atomic bomb, with the fate of the world being at stake. Nolan perfectly crafts this moment with a breathtaking explosion that is both visually stunning and thematically intense since I know I jumped when I saw it in theaters. The third act shifts its focus to the aftermath of the bomb’s detonation, exploring the ethical, psychological, and societal drawbacks of unleashing such a catastrophic force upon the world. Murphy’s subtle portrayal anchors the film, offering a window into the soul of a man dealing with the consequences of his actions.
32. Tori Tran 03.30.24 / 2pm

    After watching Christopher Nolan’s “Oppenheimer” this past summer, I felt it was an incredible film that accurately portrayed his life and the cultural impact of the atomic bomb. I felt this review also accurately depicted both the breakdown of the film, as well as my own thoughts and feelings surrounding it. I also felt that Nolan’s “directorial genius” began to arise following the second act, through the choices of building suspense towards the first test bomb detonating. I felt that this film was well-deserved towards its wins at the 96th Academy Awards, this review beautifully depicting all aspects of the film.
33. Genesis Ramos 03.30.24 / 9pm

    Oppenheimer is an incredible film that gives the audience an insight into J. Robert Oppenheimer’s mind and his creation of the atomic bomb. This film has an exceptional performance in Cillian Murphy’s career and is some of Christopher Nolan’s best work. This review highlights the three act structure and focuses on the heart of the movie, which lies in the second act. The second act follows the testing of the atomic bomb and the catastrophe that follows. The mise-en-scene of this film is the best I’ve seen yet with every aspect adding to the suspense and keeping the audience hooked onto the edge of their seats. Great review.
34. Sebastian Cornejo 03.30.24 / 9pm

    This review exemplifies Christopher Nolan’s ability as a film maker to not only produce wonderful movies, but deliver a message with beautiful storytelling. Nolan’s use of mise-en-scene in my opinion helped better this movie. As mentioned in the review, the build up to the first detonation of the atomic bomb creates tension in the viewers and characters. The possibility that the explosion could ignite the earth’s atmosphere is a fear that everyone shared. Nolan’s use of mise-en-scene in the explosion is to leave the explosion in the movie with no sound, only visuals. This made the achievement of the explosion beautiful and terrifying at the same time. terrifying because the viewer is able to gaze at visuals in awe and are able to comprehend the dangers it creates.
35. Natalie Jimenez 03.30.24 / 11pm

    Hi Riley,

    After reading your review I was shocked at how I didn’t notice the 3 act structure and the major part it helped convey the meaning of the film. I also enjoyed reading your highlights of Nolan’s climatic bomb test scene, which describes a moment of profound pressure and release. this sequence epitomizes the power of cinematic story telling, where narrative, narration and visual medium meet to produce an indelible emotional experience. the bomb sence was truly my favorite part throughout the whole movie, I was able to get tickets to the Chinese movie theater in down town Hollywood to get the full IMAX experience. When the bomb detonatod and we heard nothing to when we were all shocked when we heard the sound of the bomb a few seconds later, I think that was a very intelligent part in Nolan’s choice to concentrate on this vital moment, balancing the specialized details, which illustrates the effectiveness of exerting a narrators perspective to heighten drama and convey complex ideas in relations to manner.
36. Luke Klingler 04.13.24 / 12pm

    While the plot was a bit slow, Oppenheimer I think was a fantastically composed film. Like you said, the dedication to practical effects and IMAX cinematography just made it seem much more real. I was able to see it in 70mm and the impact the film had on my senses was pretty crazy. I think that it really did drive home the “duality of scientific progress”.
37. Kirsten George 04.13.24 / 10pm

    Hi Riley, I really liked how you touched on the two hours of suspense that this film provided for the audience up until the atomic bomb. I also liked how you incorporated the three act structure and emphasized how the character, Oppenheimer, evolved all the way up to the third act. I agree with how the “character’s journey through triumph, doubt, and introspection serves as a mirror to the audience’s own reckoning with the film’s themes”. I think the experience of watching this in IMAX truly made these conventions and themes come to life. After the bomb detonated and there was those few seconds of silence, it made you reflect on the moments leading up to that point and hoe each scene had a meaningful impact..
38. Kevin Tamayo 04.13.24 / 10pm

    Christopher Nolan’s Oppenheimer really goes to show how great of a director Chrispher Nolan is not only with the cinematography but also the storytelling. The use of his mise en scene throughout the film to emphasize the negative side of building something so powerful is very alluding throughout the film. The review really breaks down how powerful and pivotal the film is throughout its three scenes. Cillian Murphy’s performance throughout the film as J. Robert Oppenheimer, really impressed and brought another level of how well the building of the atomic bomb affected Oppenheimer. Murphy’s great acting really adds a humananzing aspect to the film and makes it easier to empathize with someone as genius as Oppenheimer and his team of scientists.
39. Luke Blevins 04.13.24 / 11pm

    Christopher Nolan’s “Oppenheimer” was truly a masterpiece. The use of traveling in time gave this film a sophisticated feel. It made me feel like I was ahead of the curb, but also made me think about how did Oppenheimer end up here. When they consistently showed him in the courtroom it made me always feel on edge that he was gonna be trailed. The historical accuracy was also amazing and tied together this movie nicely.
40. Itzary Vences 04.13.24 / 11pm

    Hello Riley, I think this review of Christopher Nolan’s “Oppenheimer” properly explains the essence of responsibility, ambition, and the ethical dilemmas of Cilian Murphy’s portrayal of J.Robert Oppenheimer’s life. It truly is amazing how he was able to portray the life of a navigating physicist’s journey with depth and nuance during World War II. That is also to say, Christopher Nolan’s directorial brilliance is very evident throughout the film. I also think his brilliance is properly captured in the second act when the audience sees where the testing of the atomic bomb becomes an important moment of cinematic masterpiece.

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